Moving to Spain from the UK

How Much Does It Cost to Move to Spain from the UK?

The final cost is influenced by the volume of your move. Here is an overview that might help you understand the prices better:

Disclaimer: Prices vary based on route and services selected. They are updated as of August 2025.

See our full guide on international container shipping costs for UK to Spain moves.

Cheapest Ways to Move Furniture to Spain

These cost-saving tips can help you cut down on moving expenses without compromising reliability:

• Groupage shipping: Share transport with others.
• Off-peak seasons: October to April offer lower rates.
• Self-packing: Reduce costs by packing and disassembling furniture yourself.
• Sea freight or ferry: Cheaper but slower than air transport.

Get Up to 5 Free Moving Quotes with Sirelo

Sirelo helps you compare prices by offering up to 5 free moving quotes from trusted UK-to-Spain removal companies. Use our quote form below to request yours.

Here is why you should request quotes now:

• Choose your household size: small move, part, or full household.
• Get personalized quotes based on volume and destination. If you are not sure about your volume yet, you can use our volume calculator.
• Compare quotes to find the best deal.
• No obligations and no hidden costs.

Removals to Spain

For a full overview of the best international removal companies, services by region, and expert tips for a smooth relocation, check out our complete removals guide to Spain below.

It’s your go-to resource for comparing trusted movers and securing the right service for your move from the UK to Spain.

Can I Still Move to Spain from the UK After Brexit in 2025?

What You Need to Move to Spain from the UK

To move to Spain from the UK in 2025, you’ll need to meet several legal and administrative requirements. Here’s what you must have in place:

• Apply for a visa and residence permit.
• Obtain a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number).
• Register at the Social Security System.
• Sort finances and inform HMRC about the move.

For work, your employer may sponsor a work permit. Visit the Spanish embassy website to begin the process.

Living in Spain

Spain offers a relaxed lifestyle, lower living costs, and high-quality public services. This section explores essential aspects of expat life, including healthcare, housing costs, work opportunities, and education.

Healthcare in Spain for Expats

Private Health Insurance in Spain

While Spain offers public healthcare to residents, private health insurance is a smart choice for expats, especially those who are self-employed, retired, or newly arrived without a job. Here is why:

• Ideal if you’re not employed in Spain.
• Options available for any budget.
• Allows access to English-speaking doctors.

Living in Spain vs UK: Cost of Living (2025)

Here is a breakdown of the most common expenses:

Disclaimer: These prices are updated as of August 2025. Source: Numbeo

Working and Studying in Spain

Whether you’re planning a career move or looking for temporary work, Spain offers diverse job opportunities for expats, especially in tourism, education, and remote tech roles. Start your search on trusted international job boards that cater to English-speaking professionals.

Job Portals:

• Expatica Jobs – Specializes in expat job listings in Spain.
• Monster Spain – One of Europe’s largest job search platforms.
• Indeed Spain – Aggregates jobs from thousands of Spanish and global companies.
• Guardian Jobs – Good for education and NGO roles.

Education System in Spain

Spain’s education system offers various paths for expat families, including public, private, and international schools. British-curriculum schools are also widely available, offering GCSEs and A-Levels to ensure continuity in education.

• Public education is available to residents and taught primarily in Spanish or regional languages.
• Private and international schools offer multilingual environments, often including English.
• University tuition is affordable by European standards, averaging around €2,000 per year.

Moving to Spain Checklist

Relocating to Spain involves more than just packing; it requires careful planning and timely paperwork. Use this step-by-step checklist to stay organized before and after your move, ensuring a smooth transition into your new life abroad.

Before You Move

• Collect key documents: passport, visa, health & academic records.
• Book an international removal company.
• Begin packing early.
• Inform UK tax authorities (HMRC).
• Read our step-by-step guide on shipping a car from the UK to Spain.
• For pet relocation tips and regulations, read our guide on moving pets abroad.

After Arrival

• Register on the Padrón (local population register).
• Open a Spanish bank account (e.g., Santander, BBVA).
• Get public or private health insurance.
• Transfer your driving license.
• Explore currency exchange options (e.g., TorFX).

Ready for Your Move to Spain?

At this point, you should know everything about moving to Spain. If you still have doubts, check our related articles and our FAQ section below.