Spain Visa Types for UK Nationals

Five pathways to Spanish residency — find the one that fits your life


Quick Comparison

All five visa pathways at a glance

Visa Best For Work? Processing
Digital Nomad Remote workers Yes 1–3 months
Non-Lucrative Retirees / passive income No 1–3 months
Student Visa Full-time students Limited 1–2 months
Startup Visa Entrepreneurs Yes 3–6 months
Company-Based Business owners Yes 3–6 months

Visa Details

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The most popular choice for UK remote workers and freelancers. Introduced under Spain's 2022 Startup Act, it lets you live in Spain while working for non-Spanish employers or clients.

Income requirement~€2,849/mo (2026)
Initial validity1 year (consulate) / 3 years (in-country)
Renewable?Yes — up to 5 years total
Work allowed?Yes (non-Spanish clients)
Beckham Law?Yes — 24% flat tax
Package from€1,250
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Ideal for retirees and those with sufficient passive income — savings, pensions, rental income or investments — who want to live in Spain without working.

Income requirement~€28,800/yr (2026)
Initial validity1 year
Renewable?Yes — 2-year renewals
Work allowed?No
Package from€1,250
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For UK nationals enrolled in full-time studies at a Spanish educational institution. You can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) while studying.

Income requirementProof of funds / sponsorship
ValidityDuration of course
Work allowed?Part-time (max 20 hrs/wk)
Package from€950
Enquire About Student Visa

Introduced under the 2022 Startup Act for entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea. Your business plan must be assessed and certified by Spain's National Innovation Company (ENISA).

RequirementApproved innovative business plan
Processing3–6 months
Validity3 years, renewable
Work allowed?Yes — in your own company
Package from€2,200
Enquire About Startup Visa

For business owners who wish to establish or expand a company into Spain. You must form or demonstrate an active stake in a Spanish company and derive your income from it.

RequirementActive Spanish company / directorship
Processing3–6 months
Validity3 years, renewable
Work allowed?Yes — via your company
Package from€2,500
Enquire About Company Residency

Beckham Law Tax Benefit

Available to Digital Nomad Visa holders

24% Flat income tax rate
6 yrs Maximum duration

Instead of Spain's progressive tax (up to 47%), Digital Nomad Visa holders can pay a flat 24% rate on Spanish-sourced income up to €600,000/year for up to 6 tax years. Apply within 6 months of receiving your TIE card.

Read the Beckham Law Guide

Which Visa Is Right for You?

Book a free 20-minute consultation and we'll assess your eligibility and recommend the best pathway.

Get Free Eligibility Assessment