Many people are choosing to retire to Spain for some reasons. A lot of British people and others across the globe have found a new home in this part of the world, mainly due to the significantly lower cost of living available, estimated to be significantly cheaper than that of the UK itself.
There are also plenty of beautiful locations that are appealing to the British and others who may be looking for a better quality of life elsewhere.
With that being said, if you’re thinking about retiring to Spain, then it’s worth considering the following.
Why Retirees Choose Spain
So why do people choose to move to Spain? What are the perks of living in another country like this one?
Cost of Living
One of the top perks of living in Spain is the cost of living. According to recent statistics:
- Rent in the UK is around 42% higher
- Groceries are approximately 27% more expensive
- Overall, living costs are around 37% higher, including rent
Healthcare
Spain is one of the best places in Europe for their healthcare system. Accessible to British retirees through residency and reciprocal agreements, having access to healthcare is something that many people in other parts of the world could only dream of.
With the UK’s healthcare system in a current disarray and, in many cases, underfunded, many British citizens are looking at the options of living overseas in places like Spain for access to quality healthcare.
Climate & Lifestyle
Beyond just the availability of health and the affordability of living in this part of the world, there’s also the climate and general lifestyle of Spain available for enjoyment.
Firstly, the sunny weather, beaches, and a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle are some of the major draws that come from moving to this country.
That sort of lifestyle, combined with the climate, is often a far cry from that of living in the UK. With a lot of miserable weather experienced in the UK, it’s no surprise that people are looking to move elsewhere for a bit of Vitamin D.
Expat Communities
Spain has already become a popular place for expatriate communities. Large, well-established British and international communities have already relocated themselves throughout parts of Spain, and this makes it a lot easier for new residents to socialise, especially as many areas offer English-speaking services and amenities.
Safety & Connectivity
Spain is often seen as a safe and modern place to live. Getting to Spain itself is easy enough, with it roughly taking around 2.5 hours from the UK, making it perfect for family visits.
With the online world being what it is nowadays, too, it’s a lot easier to connect with people and speak to them regularly. Having that connectivity is helpful not only for staying in touch with your loved ones back in the UK but for helping keep yourself safe as you navigate a new country to live in.
Top Locations for Retirees
There are plenty of locations to choose from when it comes to places to retire in Spain, and each one has its individual perks. Here are some of the top locations that retirees from the UK tend to pick as their ideal destination.
- Murcia – A well-known destination for its affordability, and it provides many great healthcare services for those British expats who need them.
- Costa Blanca – Known for a very large, welcoming expat community. Will certainly feel like a home away from home.
- Costa del Sol – Popular for its amenities, vibrant social life, and its climate, too.
- Balearic Islands – Offers a mix of stunning beaches and strong infrastructure.
- Madrid – Picked by many for its superior healthcare, cultural activities, and high quality of life.
- Valencia – Another highly picked spot, frequently cited for its balance of city life and beach accessibility.
Step-by-Step Guide for Moving to Spain
If you’re seriously considering a move to Spain from the UK, then there are several steps to take that will help you get the relevant approvals necessary to make that move.
Moving to Spain from the UK is one that requires a visa, as well as some other hoops required to jump through. Let’s go through these, so you know exactly what to expect before making the move.
- Select your Visa type
In terms of Visas, there are a number of visas to choose from, whether it’s a non-lucrative visa or a work visa.
A non-lucrative visa is best for retirees or those who are self-sufficient individuals who aren’t working for a Spanish company. A digital nomad visa is another option, and this involves remote workers who are working for non-Spanish companies. The work/student visa is appropriate for employment or study purposes.
- Gather documentation and apply
Next, you’ll need to gather any relevant documentation and submit an application to the local Spanish Consulate in the UK.
There are various documents to attain, and these should be ready for a more seamless transition.
Firstly, the ACRO Criminal Records Certificate is required. This must be legalised with an Apostille of the Hague. This provides official recognition in foreign countries, typically for the purpose of visas, employment, or residency. Only original and wet-inked signed documents will be accepted.
A medical certificate is also required from your doctor, stating that you are in good health and thus able to live in Spain. Those who have health conditions are still able to live in Spain, but it requires careful planning.
Financial proof is important to show that sufficient income or savings are available. Again, this is something that you’ll want to prepare ahead of time, ideally in the form of bank statements and documents retrieved directly from your bank.
A policy with a company authorised to operate in Spain, with no copayments, is required too. Submit all of these documents to the local Spanish Consulate in the UK.
- Preparing for departure
To prepare yourself for the department, you’ll want to sign a lease or buy a property. You’ll want to notify HMRC of your move with a P85 form. In the first 30 days of arriving in Spain, you’ll need to get a Foreigner Identity Number (NIE), which is crucial for everything and is usually issued with your Visa.
Register at your local Town Hall (Ayuntamiento) to prove your residency and apply for a Foreigner Identity Card at a police station.
- The Long-Term Setup
In the long-term, you’ll want to set up and open a Spanish bank account. You’ll also want to register for taxes if you spend more than 183 days in the country. It’s also imperative to exchange your UK driving license for a Spanish one.
If you’re thinking about retiring to Spain, then it’s certainly something to think about in the near future if it’s an option.
