For generations, Spain has been one of the favourite destinations for British people looking for sunshine, a better quality of life, a holiday home or a permanent move abroad.

From beachfront apartments on the Costa del Sol to family villas on the Costa Blanca, the attraction of owning a home in Spain remains strong.

But since Brexit, British citizens have faced additional requirements when travelling, living and working in Spain.

Now, with a new UK–EU summit scheduled for November 2026 and discussions about closer cooperation, many people are asking the same question:

Could Brexit rules become easier for British people who want to buy property or move to Spain?

Here is what is happening, what has actually changed and what prospective British property buyers need to know.

Last updated: 9 November 2026

1. Latest Brexit news: UK and EU prepare for November summit

One of the biggest developments is the upcoming UK–EU summit in Brussels on 20 November 2026.

British and European leaders are expected to review progress on their relationship and discuss closer cooperation in areas including:

• Food and agricultural trade
• Energy and climate cooperation
• Security and defence
• Migration and law enforcement
• Opportunities for young people
• Future economic cooperation

There has also been considerable attention on a possible youth mobility agreement.

Recent reporting suggests negotiators are considering a scheme that could allow young British and EU citizens aged 18–34 to live, work, study or travel in the other territory for a period of up to three years.

However, this remains a proposal under negotiation, not a new right that British citizens can currently use to move to Spain.

The summit could represent another step towards closer UK–EU relations, but it is important not to confuse proposed agreements with changes already in force.

What does this mean for British property buyers?

It is encouraging news for people who want stronger connections between Britain and Europe. However, there has not been an announced general return to freedom of movement or a change to the Spanish residency rules for British citizens.

2. Can British citizens still buy property in Spain after Brexit?

Yes.

This is one of the most important things British buyers need to understand. Brexit did not prevent British citizens from purchasing property in Spain.

You can still buy:

• Apartments and penthouses
• Beachfront properties
• Luxury villas
• Country houses and fincas
• Investment properties
• Holiday homes and retirement properties

You do not generally need Spanish residency to purchase a property.

However, purchasing a home does not automatically give you the right to live in Spain permanently.

You will need to consider your NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero), the legal purchase process, applicable property taxes and any residency requirements relevant to your circumstances.

It is also important to appoint an independent Spanish property lawyer to check the legal status of the property before committing to a purchase.

3. The 90-day rule: what British homeowners need to know

One of the biggest changes following Brexit is the 90-days-in-180-days rule.

British citizens visiting Spain as non-resident visitors can generally spend up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period across the entire Schengen Area. This includes Spain, France, Portugal and other participating countries.

It has affected British homeowners who previously enjoyed spending several months at a time in their Spanish holiday homes.

For example, if you own an apartment in Marbella or a villa in Alicante but remain a non-resident British visitor, your time in Spain counts towards your Schengen allowance.

If you want to spend longer periods in Spain, you will need to investigate an appropriate long-stay visa or residency route.

Buying a property does not extend the 90-day allowance. The UK government's guidance on the 90-day rule explains how the allowance is calculated.

4. New European border system: EES is now fully operational

Another important development for British travellers is the European Entry/Exit System (EES).

The system records the entry and exit of eligible non-EU visitors travelling into the Schengen Area. It includes:

• Digital records of border crossings
• Facial photographs
• Fingerprint registration
• Automatic monitoring of permitted short stays

The EES became fully operational at external Schengen border crossing points on 10 April 2026. The EU's official Entry/Exit System page has the current details.

For British holidaymakers, this means that the 90-day allowance is increasingly monitored through digital border records rather than relying solely on passport stamps.

British citizens legally resident in Spain who hold the appropriate biometric TIE residence card are exempt from EES registration.

What about ETIAS?

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a separate travel authorisation scheme.

As of 9 November 2026, the official EU ETIAS website states that the system is not yet operating and applications are not being collected. The EU will announce the precise start date in advance.

British travellers should use the official EU website for updates and avoid unofficial websites charging for applications before the scheme opens.

5. Moving to Spain from the UK: what are your options?

Although Brexit changed the process, there are still several routes for British citizens who want to make Spain their permanent home. Depending on your circumstances, possibilities may include:

• Non-lucrative visa – often considered by retirees and people with sufficient independent financial resources who do not intend to work in Spain.
• Digital nomad visa – potentially suitable for qualifying remote workers and certain self-employed professionals working for businesses outside Spain.
• Work and residence permits – for people who have an eligible employment opportunity or qualifying business arrangements in Spain.
• Family residency routes – available in certain circumstances where a person has qualifying family connections or rights under Spanish or EU law.

There are also important protections for British citizens who were legally resident in Spain before 1 January 2021 under the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement.

The correct route depends on your individual circumstances, finances, employment and family situation. GOV.UK publishes the current Spain travel advice and entry requirements.

6. Is healthcare still available to British retirees in Spain?

Healthcare is an important consideration for anyone planning to retire or relocate.

British citizens do not automatically receive Spanish state healthcare simply because they own a property or spend time in Spain.

However, certain people may qualify for healthcare through the UK-funded S1 system. This can include eligible UK State Pension recipients who move to Spain.

Other residents may qualify through Spanish social security contributions or other applicable routes. Some people will need private medical insurance, particularly when applying for certain residence visas.

It is worth investigating healthcare arrangements before committing to a permanent move.

7. Where are British buyers looking for property in Spain?

Despite the additional paperwork introduced following Brexit, Spain continues to offer an enormous range of property and lifestyle opportunities. Some of the most popular areas for international buyers include:

Costa del Sol – Málaga Province

From Marbella and Puerto Banús to Mijas, Fuengirola, Benalmádena and Estepona, the Costa del Sol offers beaches, golf, international communities, restaurants and excellent transport connections. Explore property for sale on the Costa del Sol.

Costa Blanca – Alicante Province

Areas such as Alicante, Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Guardamar del Segura and Jávea attract buyers looking for sunshine, coastal living and a wide range of property prices. Browse apartments for sale in Alicante.

Valencia

A combination of city living, beaches, culture and access to the wider Mediterranean coast makes Valencia an attractive option for buyers considering a permanent relocation. See property for sale in Valencia.

Murcia and the Costa Cálida

For those looking for sunshine, golf resorts, coastal properties and quieter Spanish communities, Murcia and the Costa Cálida are also worth exploring.

Inland Spain

Not everyone wants to live beside the beach. Traditional villages and countryside properties offer another lifestyle, often with more space and a different pace of life.

The best location depends on your budget, family needs, lifestyle and whether you intend to live in Spain permanently or use the property as a holiday home.

8. Is now a good time for British buyers to invest in Spain?

There is no single answer that suits every buyer. However, Brexit should not automatically put you off considering a Spanish property.

The important thing is to understand the costs and requirements before buying. Consider:

• Your intended use of the property
• Whether you will need Spanish residency
• Currency exchange and international transfer costs
• Spanish purchase taxes and legal fees
• Mortgage availability for non-residents
• Ongoing community fees and property taxes
• Rental regulations if you intend to let the property
• Your long-term healthcare and tax position

With the right preparation and professional advice, British buyers can still explore the Spanish property market with confidence.

9. What happens next? Watching the UK–EU relationship

The 20 November 2026 summit will be an important date to watch. Possible youth mobility arrangements and closer economic cooperation are among the developments attracting attention.

However, there is currently no confirmed general change to the 90-day rule, British citizens' right to move to Spain, or the residency requirements for new arrivals.

CasaViva360 will continue following developments and explaining what they mean for British buyers and people planning a future in Spain.

Your next chapter in Spain starts here

Brexit may have changed the paperwork, but it has not taken away the opportunity to own a home in Spain.

Whether you are dreaming of a modern apartment overlooking the Mediterranean, a family villa near international schools, a golf property or a traditional Spanish country home, there are opportunities waiting to be discovered.

At CasaViva360, we want to make finding your Spanish home easier.

Explore properties across the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Valencia, Alicante, Murcia and beyond. Browse all Spanish property listings, or let the free Find Your Home questionnaire match you with areas and homes that fit your budget and lifestyle.

Find your perfect place in Spain.

Visit CasaViva360.com and start exploring thousands of Spanish property listings.

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Frequently asked questions: Brexit and buying property in Spain

Can British citizens still buy a house in Spain after Brexit?

Yes. British citizens can still purchase residential and investment property in Spain. Buying property does not automatically grant residency rights.

Can I live in Spain for six months if I own a holiday home?

Not automatically. Non-resident British visitors are generally subject to the 90-day limit in any rolling 180-day period across the Schengen Area. You will need an appropriate visa or residency permission to stay longer.

Has the UK–EU reset removed the 90-day rule?

No. The November 2026 summit is an opportunity for further cooperation, but there has been no confirmed removal of the Schengen 90/180-day rule.

Do British homeowners need a visa to visit their Spanish property?

For ordinary short visits, British citizens can generally travel visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, provided they meet the entry conditions.

Can British retirees move permanently to Spain?

Yes, subject to meeting the requirements of an appropriate residence route. The non-lucrative visa is one route worth investigating for eligible retirees.

Is ETIAS required for British travellers to Spain?

As of 9 November 2026, ETIAS is not yet operating and applications are not being accepted. Check the official EU ETIAS website before travelling for the latest launch information.

Which areas of Spain are popular with British property buyers?

The Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Alicante, Valencia, Murcia and the Balearic Islands are among the areas worth exploring, depending on the buyer's budget and lifestyle preferences.

This article provides general information, not individual immigration, financial, tax or legal advice. Rules and proposals can change. Always check official government guidance before making decisions.