Summary: Since Brexit, British nationals are treated as non-EU third-country nationals in Spain. This means the 90-day Schengen rule applies, limiting visa-free stays to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, British buyers can still purchase property freely in Spain, and several residency pathways remain available, including the Non-Lucrative Visa, the Golden Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa. British buyers remain one of the largest groups of foreign property purchasers in Spain.
Can British Citizens Still Buy Property in Spain After Brexit?
Yes. Brexit has not affected the right of British nationals to purchase property in Spain. Property ownership rights are not linked to EU membership. British buyers continue to be among the most active international purchasers on the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca and Balearic Islands. In 2024, British nationals remained within the top 3 foreign nationalities purchasing property in Spain.
The 90-Day Rule: What It Means in Practice
Since 1 January 2021, British nationals can spend a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day rolling period in the Schengen Area without a visa. This applies to all Schengen countries collectively, not just Spain. The 90 days can be spread across multiple trips or used consecutively, but the total cannot exceed 90 days in any 180-day window.
For many British holiday home owners who previously spent 3–4 months in Spain over winter, this represents a significant practical constraint. The most common solutions are:
- Splitting time between Spain and non-Schengen destinations (UK, Turkey, Morocco).
- Obtaining a Spanish residency permit to remove the 90-day limitation entirely.
Residency Options for British Property Owners
Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
The most popular route for British retirees and those with passive income. Requirements include demonstrating sufficient financial means (approximately 2,400 euros per month for the main applicant plus 600 euros per dependent), comprehensive health insurance and a clean criminal record. The NLV does not permit working in Spain but allows unlimited residence. Applied for at the Spanish consulate in the UK.
Golden Visa
For British investors purchasing property worth 500,000 euros or more free of mortgage. Provides immediate residency with no minimum stay requirement. The most flexible option for those not intending to move to Spain full-time. See our full Golden Visa guide for details.
Digital Nomad Visa
Introduced in 2023, this visa is available to British nationals who work remotely for non-Spanish companies. Requires proof of employment or contracts with companies outside Spain. Valid for 1 year (renewable to 5 years). Particularly suitable for British professionals in technology, finance and creative industries.
Tax Implications Post-Brexit
Brexit has created specific tax changes for British property owners:
- Non-Resident Income Tax: British owners not resident in Spain are now taxed at 24 % (rather than the 19 % rate applicable to EU/EEA residents) on deemed rental income and cannot deduct property costs against rental income.
- Wealth Tax: subject to the standard non-EU non-resident rules.
- The UK-Spain double taxation treaty remains in force post-Brexit, preventing double taxation on most types of income.
Practical Considerations for British Buyers in 2026
- Opening a Spanish bank account is more administratively demanding for UK residents since Brexit but remains fully achievable with the right documentation.
- Transferring money from the UK to Spain incurs no specific restrictions, though exchange rate risk (GBP/EUR) is a material consideration when budgeting for a purchase.
- Many British buyers are now pursuing residency permits proactively, either through the NLV or Golden Visa, to maximise their ability to enjoy their Spanish property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can British nationals work in Spain after Brexit?
Not on a visitor basis. To work in Spain, British nationals need a work permit or a visa that includes work authorisation (such as the Digital Nomad Visa). The Non-Lucrative Visa expressly excludes the right to work.
Will I pay more tax as a British owner than I did before Brexit?
If you are a non-resident owner and not applying for any Spanish residency, yes. The applicable IRNR rate for non-EU/EEA residents is 24 % rather than 19 %, and the ability to deduct property-related costs from rental income is no longer available.
Can I get a mortgage in Spain as a British non-resident?
Yes. Spanish banks continue to offer mortgages to British nationals on similar terms to other non-EU residents: typically 60–70 % of appraised value, up to 20–25 years. Some British specialist mortgage brokers also offer Spanish mortgage products denominated in euros.
Is it still worth buying in Spain as a British national?
For the majority of British buyers who have purchased in Spain, the benefits — climate, lifestyle, property values — outweigh the administrative adjustments required post-Brexit. The key is planning the residency aspect proactively rather than treating it as an afterthought.
Planning a Spanish property purchase as a UK national? Our advisors have guided dozens of British clients through the post-Brexit purchase process. Speak with a specialist.
