Moving to Spain: Your Ultimate Guide for 2025
Considering moving to Spain?
Thousands of Brits make the decision each year to relocate to this Mediterranean paradise, enticed by sunny weather, welcoming locals, and a relaxed lifestyle.
Whether you’re dreaming of coastal living in Costa del Sol, vibrant city life in Barcelona, or rural charm in Andalusia, this guide covers everything you need to make your move to Spain in 2025 smooth and successful.
Join us as we explore the essential points you need to know!
Table of Contents
1. Why Move to Spain?
Spain remains a leading destination for British expats, consistently praised for its high quality of life.
According to William Russell’s Expat Index, Spain ranks top for expat living due to its exceptional work-life balance, affordable cost of living, and strong sense of community.
The country’s appealing lifestyle, combined with beautiful landscapes and a sunny climate, continues to attract thousands of Brits annually.
2. Healthcare in Spain
Spain has one of the best healthcare systems globally, ranked eighth by the Healthcare Access and Quality Index (HAQ).
Public healthcare is widely accessible to those contributing to Spain’s social security system, providing mostly free services with some minor charges.
Private healthcare is also widely available and popular amongst expats for faster access to specialists. Leading providers include Sanitas and Adeslas.
3. Safety and Security
With an impressive safety rating of 83/100 by SafeAround, Spain remains significantly safer than many other European countries, including the UK (77/100).
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is common in busy tourist areas, so vigilance is advisable.
However, violent crime remains rare, and Spain is generally considered very secure.
4. Social Life and Community
Spaniards are famously hospitable and social, making it easy for expats to integrate quickly.
Whether in small villages or large cities, expect a warm welcome and plenty of opportunities to socialise, particularly through local fiestas and neighbourhood gatherings.
5. Work-Life Balance
Spain ranks second globally for work-life balance according to Remote.
With approximately 14 public holidays and an average of 30 paid holiday days annually, Spain far surpasses the UK’s typical allocation.
The working day commonly incorporates a break (siesta), typically running from around 9 am–1:30 pm and 4:30 pm–8 pm, although siesta customs are less common in larger cities.
6. Spanish Climate and Year-Round Sunshine
Spain’s sunny climate is a huge attraction. Northern regions like Galicia and Asturias have mild, cooler climates with temperatures averaging around 14°C annually, while southern coastal areas enjoy warmer Mediterranean weather often exceeding 20°C from May to October.
7. Spanish Property Market
Spain’s property market remains appealing due to its diversity and affordability compared to the UK.
From Mediterranean villas to charming village homes, you’ll find excellent value.
Browse listings on reputable property websites, such as Idealista or Kyero.
8. Cost of Living in Spain
The cost of living in Spain is significantly lower than in the UK.
Data from Numbeo shows consumer prices are around 30% cheaper, rent prices are approximately 40% lower, and utilities are often less than half the UK cost.
This makes Spain ideal for expats seeking better value for money.
9. Family Life and Community Values
Family life is at the heart of Spanish culture, with a strong emphasis on close relationships.
Extended families often live nearby, supporting one another both practically and socially. Grandparents often help with childcare, fostering a sense of community closeness.
10. The Famous Mediterranean Diet
Spain’s culinary culture revolves around fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The Mediterranean diet, renowned for health benefits, features delicious dishes such as seafood paella, gazpacho, tortilla Española, and tapas.
Food is reasonably priced, making dining out a more appealing option.
11. Spain’s Rich Cultural and Historical Heritage
Spain’s history is a treasure trove, reflected in numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Alhambra, Santiago de Compostela, and Gaudí’s architecture in Barcelona.
History enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to explore.
12. Essential Items to Bring to Spain
When moving to Spain, ensure you pack these essentials:
- Passport (with at least six months validity).
- Power adapters (Spain uses European two-pin plugs).
- Favourite herbs and spices (as some might be harder to source).
Your UK clothing will generally be suitable, though additional summer wear is advisable for warmer regions.
13. Renting and Buying Property in Spain
Initially renting a property allows you to get acquainted with an area.
Popular platforms for rentals include Fotocasa and Idealista.
Many expats choose to buy, benefiting from Spain’s affordable housing market.
14. Finding Employment in Spain
While many associate Spain with retirement, nearly two-thirds of British expats there are of working age (ONS).
Major cities like Madrid and Barcelona provide plentiful opportunities for English-speaking jobs.
Explore job opportunities through Expatica or Indeed Spain.
15. Opening a Bank Account
You’ll need a Número de Identificación de Extranjero (NIE) and a residency certificate to open a Spanish bank account.
Leading banks for expats include Santander, BBVA, and CaixaBank.
16. Taxes and Pensions in Spain
Registering for a Spanish NIE number is mandatory for tax purposes.
The UK-Spain Double Taxation Treaty ensures you won’t pay tax twice on the same income.
Speak to a financial advisor for detailed guidance on pensions and taxes.
17. Driving in Spain
Your UK driving licence is valid in Spain initially, but after two years of residency, it must be exchanged for a Spanish one.
Driving in Spain means adapting to driving on the right-hand side of the road and observing speed limits in kilometres per hour (km/h). Refer to the DGT website for the full regulations.
Transporting your car can be done via cargo shipping or driving across Europe.
Driving provides an adventurous way to travel, though be mindful of toll roads.
19. Bringing Pets to Spain
Pets are welcome in Spain, provided they meet entry requirements, including:
- Microchip identification
- Valid pet passport
- Up-to-date rabies vaccinations
Refer to the latest gov.uk pet travel advice.
20. Post-Brexit Residency Requirements
Since Brexit, UK nationals planning to reside in Spain for more than 90 days must register officially as residents. You must apply via your local Oficina de Extranjeros and receive your residency card, which includes your essential NIE number.
21. Getting Your Spanish Social Security Number
After registering residency, visit your local Social Security Office (Seguridad Social) to obtain your social security number. This grants access to healthcare, pensions, and employment in Spain.
22. Useful Resources for New Expats
To help your relocation run smoothly, use resources such as:
- British Embassy Spain
- Expats in Spain Forum
- AngloINFO Spain
Ready to Move to Spain?
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For a personalised removals quote, call our team today or complete our quick quote form.
Let GoodMove make your Spanish adventure stress-free!