Moving to Spain from the UK is an exciting step toward a new lifestyle filled with sunshine, vibrant culture, and a slower pace of life. However, many British expats find that the dream can quickly turn stressful when they overlook Spain’s legal, financial, and cultural realities.
Small mistakes – from visa misunderstandings to underestimating bureaucracy – can cause serious delays, legal trouble, and unnecessary expenses.
Below, we outline the 10 biggest mistakes when moving to Spain from the UK, and how to avoid them for a smooth, successful relocation.
1. Ignoring Spain’s Legal and Bureaucratic Processes
Spain’s bureaucracy is notorious for its complexity. Each visa category – whether for work, retirement, study, or investment – has unique eligibility requirements. Many expats arrive without the correct visa or without understanding post-arrival obligations.
After entering Spain, you’ll need to:
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Register your residence at the local town hall.
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Obtain a residence permit and NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero).
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Enroll in the local social security and healthcare systems.
Procedures also vary between autonomous regions, so it’s essential to confirm local requirements before moving.
How to Obtain a Residence Permit
You can apply at:
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The Spanish embassy or consulate in the UK, or
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The national police station (Comisería Nacional de Policía) or immigration office (Oficina de Extranjería) closest to your Spanish address.
Documents required include:
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Valid passport (minimum four months)
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Three passport photos
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Proof of Spanish address
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Evidence of financial stability
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Medical certificate showing you are free from infectious diseases
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Health insurance covering at least €30,000 in the Schengen Area
You may be refused a residence permit if you entered Spain illegally or have a serious criminal record.
2. Misunderstanding Spain’s Financial and Tax System
Spain’s tax system is complex and can lead to unexpected liabilities if you’re not prepared.
As a Spanish resident, you’ll be taxed on your worldwide income, not just earnings in Spain. That means pensions, rental income, and investments abroad may also be taxable.
Key taxes to be aware of:
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IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles): Local property tax.
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Wealth Tax: Applies to your net assets (abolished in some regions like Andalusia and Madrid).
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Personal Income Tax (IRPF): 19%–30% depending on income.
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Non-resident Income Tax: 19%–24%.
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VAT: 4%–21% depending on goods or services.
To prevent double taxation, seek advice from a qualified tax advisor familiar with the UK-Spain tax treaty. Some expats may also benefit from the Beckham Law, which offers special tax advantages for foreign workers.
3. Not Opening a Spanish Bank Account
A Spanish bank account is more than convenience – it’s a necessity.
You’ll need one for paying rent, utilities, mobile bills, and health insurance. Many landlords and service providers will not accept foreign bank details.
Additionally, local accounts save on international transfer fees and simplify financial transactions. Compare banks to find one with low transfer and maintenance fees.
4. Underestimating the Real Cost of Living
Spain is generally more affordable than the UK, but costs vary significantly by region.
While rural towns and smaller cities are cheaper, metropolitan areas like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia have high rents and everyday expenses.
Here’s how Spain compares:
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UK cost of living is roughly 30% higher than Spain (excluding rent).
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Rent in the UK is 38% higher on average.
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Groceries cost 21% more in the UK.
Always research your chosen area before moving – your dream location might also be the priciest.
5. Moving to Spain Based on Stereotypes
The image of Spain as endless beaches and sunshine is only part of the story.
Spain is the fourth-largest country in Europe and home to 18 autonomous regions, each with its own identity, language, and climate.
The north has lush greenery and cooler weather; the south offers scorching summers and coastal living.
Before choosing where to live, visit different regions and consider:
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Climate preferences
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Local job opportunities
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Cost of living
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Cultural fit
A short research trip or rental period before settling permanently can save you from long-term regret.
6. Only Speaking English
Relying solely on English is one of the biggest mistakes British expats make.
While many Spaniards speak English – especially in tourist areas – you’ll quickly find limitations in daily life, government offices, and healthcare facilities.
Learning Spanish helps you:
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Integrate with locals
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Handle bureaucracy
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Understand contracts, medical forms, and taxes
Even basic conversational Spanish can greatly improve your experience. Enroll in language classes both before and after your move, and practice with locals to boost fluency.
Remember, some regions also have regional languages – Catalan, Basque, Galician – which are widely spoken and respected.
7. Misunderstanding Spain’s Healthcare System
Spain offers excellent healthcare, but eligibility depends on your residence status.
Public healthcare is funded through the social security system, which covers employed and self-employed residents. Retirees or unemployed expats often need private health insurance.
Important reminders:
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Register with a GP (médico de cabecera) upon arrival.
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Prescriptions are electronic, not paper-based.
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Only registered pharmacies can fill prescriptions.
Private insurance is essential for non-working residents — or risk facing high medical bills.
8. Ignoring Local Customs and Social Etiquette
Spanish culture places strong emphasis on courtesy, social gatherings, and family.
Simple gestures, such as greeting with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks, show respect. Lunches and dinners are social events – often later than in the UK.
Cultural etiquette to remember:
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Avoid wearing swimsuits away from the beach (it can lead to fines).
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Keep hands above the table while dining.
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Tipping is optional — typically 10% for excellent service.
Every region has its own customs, so observe and adapt respectfully to local traditions.
9. Rushing to Buy a House
For years, non-EU citizens could secure Spanish residency through the Golden Visa by investing over €500,000 in property – but this program was abolished in April 2025.
Buying property too soon can tie you to an unsuitable region and trigger high capital gains tax (19–23%) if you later decide to sell.
Instead, rent first for at least a year or two to explore different areas, experience local culture, and choose your perfect location.
10. Overlooking Work and Employment Challenges
Spain’s work culture is unique, and the job market can be competitive.
High unemployment rates — particularly among younger workers — make it difficult for expats to find roles unless they have specialized skills.
You generally need to:
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Secure a job offer before applying for a Spain work visa.
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Ensure the position appears on Spain’s Shortage Occupation List, or your employer must prove no suitable local candidates exist.
Spanish workplaces value hierarchy, respect, and relationship-building.
Be polite, use formal address (“usted” instead of “tú”), and adapt to long lunch breaks and late working hours. Understanding these norms will help you integrate smoothly into professional life.
How LawSentis Can Help You Move to Spain with Confidence
Relocating to Spain involves far more than packing bags – it’s a legal, financial, and cultural transition that requires expert guidance.
LawSentis provides professional immigration and relocation support for individuals and families moving from the UK to Spain.
Our services include:
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Visa and residence permit applications
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Legal and document preparation
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Tax, healthcare, and financial setup assistance
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Expert guidance on property, business, and family relocation
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Ongoing post-arrival support
Our team of experienced immigration advisers ensures every step of your move complies with Spanish and UK regulations – helping you avoid costly mistakes, save time, and settle in smoothly.
Ready to start your move?
Book your consultation today with LawSentis to receive tailored advice for your Spanish relocation journey.