After Brexit, British citizens must follow the same procedure as any non-EU national to obtain residency in Spain. This means applying for a residence visa at the Spanish Consulate in the UK before entering Spain with the intention of living there.
Below is a clear and practical guide explaining the steps you must complete while still in the UK, including the timing and coordination required between documents, the visa, your arrival in Spain, and your residency appointment.
1️⃣ Choose the Correct Type of Residency and Visa
Before gathering documents, you must determine the type of residency you want, as each requires different evidence and leads to a specific visa:
1. Non-Lucrative Residency (NLV)
For: people who will not work in Spain (retirees, people with passive income).
➜ Requires proving financial means and private health insurance.
2. Self-Employed Residency (Autónomo Visa)
For: those who will work independently or start a business in Spain.
➜ Requires a business plan, proof of funds, and professional documentation.
3. Work Residency with an Employment Contract
For: applicants who already have a Spanish employer offering them a job.
➜ The employer must start the process in Spain before you apply for the visa.
Important:
Each of these residencies requires a national visa from the Spanish Consulate in the UK.
You cannot enter as a tourist and then apply from Spain.
2️⃣ Request the Criminal Records Certificate (ACRO) in the UK
This certificate is mandatory for all residency visas.
You must apply for:
✔ ACRO Police Certificate (UK Criminal Records Certificate)
This document has three essential requirements:
A. It must be requested in the UK
It cannot be obtained from Spain.
B. It must be legalised with the Hague Apostille
This is done through the FCDO Legalisation Office.
C. It is valid for a limited period
Usually 90 days from the date of issue for visa purposes.
➡️ Therefore, do not request it too early—request it when you are close to submitting your visa application.
3️⃣ Prepare Documentation According to Your Visa Type
Although each visa requires specific documents, all applicants must provide:
- Valid British passport
- Passport-size photos
- National visa application form
- Medical certificate (following Spanish requirements)
- ACRO criminal record certificate + Hague Apostille
- Proof of private health insurance (if applicable)
Then, depending on the residency type:
For Non-Lucrative Residency
✔ Bank statements
✔ Evidence of passive income
✔ Private health insurance without co-payments
For Self-Employed Residency
✔ Business plan
✔ Professional qualifications
✔ Proof of investment or financial means
For Work Residency
✔ Signed employment contract
✔ Employer’s authorization for initial residence and work permit
4️⃣ Apply for the Spanish Residency Visa at the Spanish Consulate in the UK
Once all documents are prepared:
- Book an appointment at the appropriate Spanish Consulate.
- Submit your application and pay the fee.
- Wait for approval (typically 30–90 days depending on the visa).
When approved, the visa will be stamped in your passport.
Important:
Your visa will include a 90-day validity period to enter Spain and complete your residency process.
5️⃣ Arrive in Spain and Request Your TIE (Foreigners’ Identity Card)
Once you arrive in Spain, the second phase begins:
You must apply for your TIE within 30 days of your entry into Spain.
To do this, you will need:
- Appointment (cita previa) for fingerprinting
- EX-17 form (for non-EU citizens)
- Proof of address and empadronamiento
- Passport + visa
- Passport photos
- Form 790/012 and proof of payment
Recommended coordination:
- Book your TIE appointment as soon as your visa is approved
Appointments are scarce—you can book one even before traveling. - Enter Spain within the 90-day validity of your visa
- Register your address (empadronamiento) immediately after arrival
- Attend your appointment for fingerprinting (TIE)
You will receive a temporary receipt and pick up your card a few weeks later.
6️⃣ Summary: Ideal Timeline
Here is the recommended sequence:
1️⃣ In the UK
✔ Request ACRO criminal record certificate
✔ Legalise it with the Hague Apostille
✔ Prepare all visa documents
✔ Apply for the Spanish residency visa
✔ Collect your passport with the visa attached
2️⃣ Travel to Spain
✔ Within the 90-day period noted on your visa
3️⃣ In Spain
✔ Obtain the empadronamiento
✔ Pay form 790/012
✔ Attend the TIE appointment (fingerprints)
✔ Collect your TIE card