Spanish residence: become a citizen of Spain

Flat with large terrace on Marbella’s Golden Mile

Spanish residence, British nationals in Spain after the Brexit. 

Until the 31st of December the EU rules will still apply to British citizens. Whether they are already living in Spain legally or whether they intend to do so before the end of the year. 

However, from the 1st of January of 2021, all British citizens will then fall under the general immigration regime. This means that they become non-European citizens and need to apply for a residence permit if they want to live in Spain. In order to obtain this new permit, we must differentiate between the following categories:

• British citizen with temporary UE certificate. Before the 31st December 2020, they will need to apply for the new Brexit residence card with a validity of 5 years.
• British citizen with permanent UE certificate. This group of foreigners may also apply for the new card. But, in this case, its validity will last for 10 years.
• British citizens that have never obtained the EU card. They have to apply at the foreigners’ office for a residence card. This can be done in person through an appointment or online. If you meet all the basic requirements, you will be granted a residence permit in Spain to live beyond December 31st. These requirements are the same as for any European citizen who starts living in Spain. Basically, you must have sufficient economical means and medical insurance.

Villa in Casablanca urbanisation, in Marbella’s Golden Mile

Once this part of the process has been completed, you will receive your new residence card. If you are interested in obtaining the Spanish residence card and becoming a Spanish citizen, the firm Lex Bureau Abogados will help you.