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Moving to Spain from the UK

Costs, Life & Checklist

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Are you moving to Spain? Whether you’re planning a big or small removal to Spain from the UK, you’ve come to the right place. Our guide on moving to Spain from the UK contains all the essential information you need to have a stress-free move. So read on for the cost of moving, an essential checklist, and free moving quotes!

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Moving to Spain From UK: Costs

How Much Does It Cost to Move To Spain from the UK? Moving to Spain from the UK can cost you between £2,000 and £7,500.

The table below indicates the cost of moving from London to Spain by road for various household sizes.

Household SizeTimeCost
1 bedroom apartment9 – 13 days£2,000 – £2,700
2 bedroom house3 – 5 days£2,500 – £3,400
3 bedroom house3 – 5 days£3,200 – £4,400
4 bedroom house3 – 5 days£4,300 – £5,800
5 bedroom house3 – 5 days£5,400 – £7,300

Disclaimer: The above figures are just estimates. Final costs will depend on the exact points of departure and arrival, and the service rates of the company.

Cheapest Way to Move Furniture to Spain

  • Truck or ferry – They are slower but more affordable. If you have more belongings to move, sea freight may be the best method of transport.
  • Off-peak Season – Lower demand, lower prices. Best to move from October to April.
  • Groupage – Share the costs with other users with similar routes.
  • Pack and Disassemble yourself – Instead of hiring these services.

For an even more detailed breakdown, you can read our page on international moving costs.

Free Moving Quotes From UK to Spain

Click below to receive up to 5 free removal quotes to Spain. This is the best way t ensure thatyou find the best deal for yourself.

Moving to Spain?
Select the size of your household to receive free quotes for your move!

Removals to Spain: Removal Companies

Find the right moving company for yourself to ensure a smooth and hassle-free move to Spain.

Do you want to move to Spain? Check out our guide on the top international removal companies to Spain.

Requirements for Moving to Spain After Brexit

You’ll need a visa and a work permit that your employer will apply for if you intend to work when moving to Spain. However, you will still need to apply for a visa, which must be done in person at the nearest embassy.

While at the embassy, you make inquiries about obtaining a Foreigners’ Identity Number (N.I.E.). If you’re looking for more information, see our page about moving to Europe after Brexit.

Are you moving to Spain? Make sure to check our guide on visas for Spain.

Relocating to Spain from the UK: Checklist

We made this essential moving to Spain checklist to help make your move easier:

Before You Move

  • Documentation: Gather all important documents, including passport, photos, birth/marriage certificates, medical/university/police records, and visa.
  • Find an international removal company: Consider one of the top UK international removal companies to help you move.
  • Pack: There is no such thing as starting too early; read our expert packing guide to learn how to move your items.
  • Moving car to Spain: Read the Spanish Government page on moving a car to Spain, or get some information on our page about shipping your car overseas.
  • Moving with pets: If you plan to bring your furry friend, make sure to follow these requirements.
    • Have been micro-chipped
    • Vaccination against rabies with its certificate
    • A general certificate of health
  • Tax: Inform the HMRC that you are moving abroad.
Moving to Spain? Make sure to check out our guide on Taxes in Spain.

Once You Arrive

  • Register on The Padrón: This is the Spanish population register. Once you are registered here, you get the same rights as Spanish citizens. You’ll need:
    • A form of identification
    • Public or private healthcare or insurance
    • Proof of sufficient funds to support you and your dependents.
  • Healthcare: Spain has a healthcare system that will cover your basic needs.
Moving to Spain? Make sure to check out our guide on Healthcare in Spain.

Living in Spain: Costs and Lifestyle

Spain is a unique blend of culture, history, and modernity. We’ll explore the cost of living in Spain and its lifestyle compared to the UK.

Cost of Living in Spain vs. UK

The cost of living in Spain is 26.4% cheaper than in the UK.

In the table below, we gathered the living costs in both Madrid and London:

ExpenseSpainUK
Rent€ 1,000.00€ 1,300.00
Restaurant€ 16.00€ 25.00
Groceries€ 200.00€ 250.00
Transportation€ 50.00€ 80.00
Utilities€ 120.00€ 150.00

Disclaimer: These prices are not reflective of the country as a whole and smaller cities in each country will be cheaper to live in than these popular expat destinations.

Culture Facts about Spain

  • Siesta is one of the most iconic aspects of its culture. This afternoon nap is a time for people to relax and recharge.
  • Spaniards typically eat 5 times per day
  • The typical food, tapas, consists of small plates of food that tend to be eaten for dinner.
  • Spain is well known for its festivals and holidays from bull running to tomato throwing.
Check out our expat blog to gain insights into your move to Spain.

Working in Spain

If you have moved to Spain from the UK and are still in search of work, signing up for some of the following job portals is a good place to start:

The Education System in Spain

Level/Age/RequirementWhat to know
Nursery (0-3 years)Monthly fees for both public and private
Pre-School (3-6 years)Not required
Primary School (6-12 years)Two two-year cycles – The first one focused on developing basic skills, followed by preparing students for secondary school.
Secondary School (16-18 years)Three two-year cycles – One general education cycle, followed by two specialized cycles, one of which is optional for university preparation
Apprenticeship (+18)Not required. Vocational or professional training
University (+18)Undergraduate and graduate studies. Fees can be around €2,000 per year.
There are many English-speaking schools where it is possible to follow the British style of education system (including GCSEs and A-Levels).

Prepare Your Move to Spain

Now that you know more about your new living country, you might enjoy our moving abroad checklist. Feel free to continue exploring, read resources, and check the FAQs at the end of the page.

Frequently asked questions

What Do I Need to Move to Spain?

How Do I Move to Spain?

How Can I Move to Spain?

Is Spain Cheaper than The UK?

Is It Easy to Move to Spain From The UK?

What are 7 biggest mistakes when moving to Spain?

Can Brits still move to Spain?