The full guide
Step one: your residence route
| You are | Usual route | Key requirement |
|---|---|---|
| EU, EEA or Swiss citizen | Register as a resident | Sufficient means and health insurance |
| UK citizen arriving now | Non-lucrative visa | Income or savings and private insurance |
| US or other non-EU citizen | Non-lucrative visa | Income or savings and private insurance |
| Still working remotely | Digital nomad visa | Remote work income |
The non-lucrative visa needs €28,800 a year in 2026 for the main applicant (400% of the IPREM) and €7,200 for each family member, from pensions, investments or savings. You can’t work in Spain on it.
Healthcare
UK and EU state pensioners can often use an S1 to join the public system. Others need private insurance for the visa, then can consider the convenio especial after a year on the padrón. See healthcare as a retiree.
Pensions and tax
Once you live in Spain for more than 183 days a year, you’re usually tax resident and taxed on your worldwide income, including most pensions. Double tax treaties set exceptions: UK government service pensions, for example, are generally taxed only in the UK. Plan any lump sums before you move, and read moving your pension to Spain.
Where and how to live
Popular retirement areas include the Costa del Sol, the Costa Blanca, Mallorca and the Canary Islands, with strong international communities. Cities like Valencia and Málaga offer more services; inland towns are cheaper and quieter. Think about distance to a hospital, public transport if you stop driving, and summer heat. See choosing where to live in Spain.
Money
Open a Spanish bank account for bills and direct debits, and arrange for pensions to be paid in euros where possible. Moving savings is mostly about the exchange rate; see sending money to and from Spain.
Legal planning
Make a Spanish will for your Spanish assets and consider a power of attorney and an advance directive for healthcare decisions. Under EU rules you can choose the law of your nationality to govern your estate.
Your first month
| Week | Task |
|---|---|
| 1 | Register on the padrón |
| 1 to 2 | Book TIE fingerprints (within one month of arriving) |
| 2 | Open a bank account and get a SIM |
| 2 to 4 | Register your S1 or activate insurance; find your health centre |
| 4 | Plan your licence exchange and tell your home tax office |
Frequently asked questions
Can I work part-time on a non-lucrative visa?
No. Any work in Spain needs a different permit.
Do I lose my UK state pension increases?
No. UK state pensions are uprated each year for people living in the EU, including Spain.
