Since the United Kingdom officially left the European Union, many British citizens have wondered how Brexit affects their right to buy a home in Torrevieja or other areas along the Spanish coast. The short answer is that it’s still completely legal and possible, but with more steps and requirements than before.
Until 2020, Britons enjoyed the same rights as any other European citizen. However, following Brexit, their legal status has changed: they are now considered non-EU citizens, which entails certain adjustments in both administrative procedures and tax and residency matters.
One of the most significant changes concerns the length of stay in Spain. Previously, residents could reside indefinitely, but now the limit is 90 days within a 180-day period, unless a long-term residence permit or visa is applied for. This affects those who wish to use their property as a second home or spend extended periods in Spain.
Another important aspect is tax treatment. Although British citizens can continue to purchase homes in Spain without restrictions, they may lose certain tax advantages previously applied to EU residents, such as reductions in Non-Resident Income Tax (IRNR) or inheritance and transfer tax. Additional documentation is also required, such as the NIE (National Identity Document), the opening of a Spanish bank account, and, in some cases, the declaration of investments to the Bank of Spain.
At A&G Lawyers, we have assisted dozens of British residents in Spain over the past few years, adapting each real estate transaction to this new legal situation. Our team is fully aware of the practical effects of Brexit and handles all the formalities so that clients do not have to worry about the legal differences between the United Kingdom and Spain.
📍Are you a British citizen thinking of buying or selling a property in Torrevieja?
➡️ Schedule an appointment with A&G Lawyers. We’ll clearly explain all the steps and guide you through the entire process, so you can buy or sell with complete legal security.