Why applications get refused
British applicants who were resident in Spain before 2021 may already have rights under the Withdrawal Agreement and should not apply for a new permit without checking. Others overstay the 90-day limit while waiting, which makes an in-Spain application impossible.
Where to apply
From the UK
At the Spanish consulate responsible for your area, often through an external visa centre. The visa is valid for up to one year. See apply from abroad.
From Spain
Within your 90-day visa-free stay, you can apply directly for the three-year residence permit. See apply from inside Spain.
UK documents
- ACRO police certificate, apostilled by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
- Degree certificates or experience documents, apostilled.
- Marriage and birth certificates for family members.
- Sworn translations into Spanish.
Social security
The UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement includes social security coordination. In some cases, workers sent to work in Spain can remain covered by UK National Insurance for a period with a certificate from HMRC. See social security.
Taxes
If you become Spanish tax resident, the UK–Spain double tax treaty applies. UK employees moving to Spain may benefit from the Spanish special regime for inbound workers. See taxes.
Driving licences and daily life
Once you are resident in Spain, UK driving licences can generally be exchanged for a Spanish licence under the agreement between the two countries, within the period set by the rules. Residents should also register with a local doctor, through Spanish social security or their private insurer, and open a Spanish bank account, which is easier once you have your TIE.
A practical example
A London-based marketing director, employed by a UK agency, wanted to move to Palma with her partner. We obtained her ACRO certificate and apostilles in advance, and her employer requested a UK certificate of coverage. We filed both permits from Mallorca within their visa-free stay. See Mallorca. More information on the firm's main website: immigration law at Castell Abogados (in Spanish).
Get your file checked before you apply
Most refusals come from documents that do not prove what the law asks for. Send us your situation and an immigration lawyer will tell you what is missing before you submit.
Questions from UK citizens
Can UK citizens get the Spain digital nomad visa?
Yes. Since Brexit, British citizens are non-EU nationals and can apply.
Can I apply from Spain as a British visitor?
Yes, within your 90-day visa-free stay.
Which criminal record certificate do I need?
Usually the ACRO police certificate, apostilled by the FCDO.
I lived in Spain before 2021. Do I need this visa?
Possibly not: you may have rights under the Withdrawal Agreement. Get advice first.