Are you planning a move to or from Spain? Gentlevan Removals is a top-rated, reliable removal service to and from Spain from the UK, and vice versa. We offer shared or dedicated loads, full packing service , and 2 months of FREE storage in the UK . Whether you're planning a permanent relocation, a retirement move, or returning to the UK after living in Spain, our experienced team is here to make the process smooth and affordable. Get a free no-obligation quote today and let us handle your removals from the UK to Spain!
We’ve helped families, professionals, retirees, and second-home owners relocate from all over the UK to various parts of Spain.
From city apartments to countryside villas, we understand how to plan your move properly, no matter the scale. We also specialise in helping customers with complex moves – including cars, fragile collections, and multi-property loads. We aim to offer a service that’s flexible, transparent, and completely personalised.
In addition to our logistics expertise, we offer culturally sensitive advice in our blog for settling into Spanish life — covering tips like understanding local bureaucracy, registering with local authorities, and even moving with pets. Our team is here to make your entire transition as smooth and informed as possible.
We’ve refined our removal process over the years to make moving as simple as possible:
You can also get optional storage & unpacking services. Whatever you need – just ask! We go for piano or vehicle transport and professional dismantling and reassembly as well.
Our team keeps you informed every step of the way. From quote to delivery, you’ll have one point of contact, no call centres or outsourcing.
Need to store your belongings for a short time while you finalise accommodation or travel? We offer clean and secure UK-based storage options (with four free weeks!) on international moves.
Relocating to Spain is an exciting step, and with Gentlevan, you’re in safe hands. Since 2011, we combine personal service with professional standards to deliver door-to-door removals across the UK and mainland Spain. Here’s what sets us apart:
We also support moves for retirees, digital nomads, and those looking to relocate long-term. Our advice covers everything from documentation and residence registration to tips on integrating into your new Spanish community.
Satisfied customers highly recommend Gentlevan Removals, and we take pride in delivering excellent service. Whether you're moving to a small one-bedroom flat or a large six-bedroom family home, our friendly and professional team will handle your possessions with the utmost care.
Relocating to Spain offers an exciting opportunity to enjoy its rich culture, warm climate, and relaxed lifestyle — but preparation is key to avoiding common pitfalls. Many people underestimate the complexity of visas and residency requirements, so ensure you have the correct documentation in place before your move. Learning basic Spanish can make a world of difference, helping you integrate into the community and navigate daily life with ease.
Financial planning is equally important — research the cost of living, set aside emergency savings, and open a local bank account to manage your finances efficiently. Avoid rushing into buying property without first getting a feel for the area; renting initially allows you to explore different neighbourhoods.
Choosing the right removals company is also crucial. At Gentlevan Removals, our experienced team ensures your belongings arrive safely and on time, handling customs, transport, and logistics to ensure a stress-free relocation. Finally, be open to cultural differences — embracing Spanish customs and lifestyle will help you settle in more smoothly.
Plan, stay flexible, and let Gentlevan Removals make your move to Spain as seamless as possible.
Living in Spain has long been a dream for many British citizens, thanks to its warm weather, laid-back lifestyle, and vibrant culture. However, since Brexit, the process of moving and settling in Spain has become more complex. The UK’s departure from the European Union means British nationals are no longer automatically entitled to live, work, or retire in Spain. Understanding these changes is essential before making the move — and planning your relocation with a trusted removals partner like Gentlevan Removals can make a huge difference.
Before Brexit, moving to Spain was simple for UK citizens — they could live and work freely without additional paperwork. Now, British expats must apply for a visa or residence permit under Spain’s general immigration rules. This often involves proving financial stability, showing private health insurance, and obtaining a Foreigner’s Identification Number (NIE). Those who moved before Brexit can apply for the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE), securing their right to remain under the Withdrawal Agreement.
Employment and healthcare have also changed. Working in Spain now requires a valid work visa, while accessing healthcare typically means arranging private insurance or meeting specific eligibility criteria for Spain’s national health system. Everyday tasks — such as registering at the local town hall or renewing a driving licence — can also involve more paperwork than before.
Despite the challenges, life in Spain remains rewarding. Many British expats continue to enjoy Spain’s excellent quality of life, thriving expat communities, and diverse regions — from the sun-drenched coasts to the cultural hubs of Madrid and Barcelona. Integration is key: learning Spanish, embracing local customs, and engaging with the community help make the transition smoother.
Expat networks and organisations, including local British associations and online forums, provide vital support, advice, and companionship. Staying informed about legal requirements, healthcare, and tax obligations ensures a stress-free experience.
While Brexit has changed the framework for living in Spain, careful preparation and the right professional support make the move entirely achievable. Gentlevan Removals offers reliable removals to Spain, managing logistics and customs with expertise, so you can focus on settling into your new life with peace of mind.
If you’re preparing to move from the UK to Spain, understanding Spanish customs regulations is essential for a smooth transition. Post-Brexit, British citizens are now subject to non-EU import rules, meaning extra documentation, value limits, and possible taxes may apply to your belongings. Knowing what you can and can’t ship—and preparing the right paperwork—helps avoid delays, costs, or complications during your move.
At Gentlevan Removals, we handle every aspect of your move to Spain, from packing and shipping to navigating customs clearance. Our door-to-door service ensures your belongings arrive safely, while we manage the necessary documentation on your behalf.
When shipping personal effects, you’ll need to provide a detailed packing list outlining the quantity, description, and value of each item — which we can prepare for you. Spanish customs also require:
To qualify for VAT (IVA) exemption, customs officers may also ask for your TIE residency card, a recent Padrón certificate, and Form P-85 from HMRC.
Certain goods are restricted or prohibited. Common restricted items include alcohol, tobacco, fresh food, plants, medicines (which must be accompanied by a prescription), and antiques or cultural artefacts that may need special permits. Prohibited items include illegal drugs, firearms, hazardous materials, and counterfeit goods.
Most non-commercial personal items shipped by air or sea are tax-free unless their total value exceeds €430. However, all goods must be accurately declared in Spanish, and descriptions for items under six months old must be certified by the Spanish Consulate in the UK.
If importing a motor vehicle, it must be at least six months old and accompanied by documents such as the Certificate of Title, purchase invoice, registration papers, and proof of insurance.
Gentlevan Removals provides full guidance throughout the customs process, ensuring every requirement is met correctly. With our experience handling removals to Spain, you can move stress-free, knowing your belongings are in expert hands.
For comprehensive information on visa requirements, visit the official website of the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or contact the nearest Spanish embassy or consulate in the UK . They will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on visa types, application processes, and any additional requirements. By being well-informed about the customs requirements and visa regulations, you can ensure a smooth transition and make the necessary arrangements to comply with the legal obligations when moving from the UK to Spain.
You might also need to register with the local town hall (empadronamiento), apply for a NIE number, or arrange healthcare and schooling for your children.
Removals to Spain from the UK can cost between £2,500 and £7,000. This price range typically includes door-to-door service for a moderately furnished home. To learn more about average costs and the factors that influence them, visit our removals cost guide for Spain, or simply request an online, no-obligation quote .
Yes, however, retiring to Spain from the UK was a simpler process before Brexit. UK nationals only needed to obtain an EU registration certificate. The process has become more complex now that Brits are considered non-EU citizens. Learn about the types of visas available, required documentation, and other requirements in our Retirement to Spain guide.
The top three mistakes include underestimating the complexity of the residency application process, failing to start language learning before the move, and assuming you can find a job on arrival.
Moving to Spain from the UK is still very achievable, but it now requires more planning due to post-Brexit rules. UK citizens must apply for the correct visa before relocating, whether for work, study, retirement, or remote work. With the right documents, clear financial proof, and a solid plan, the process is far smoother than many expect. Spain offers strong expat communities, diverse housing options, and an excellent quality of life, making integration easier. Partnering with professional removal companies like Gentlevan Removals also simplifies logistics, customs requirements and packing, helping you settle quickly and stress-free.
UK citizens now need a visa to live in Spain long-term, but several options are available depending on your situation. Common routes include the Work Visa (if you secure a Spanish employer), Student Visa, Non-Lucrative Visa for those with sufficient passive income, and the Golden Visa for significant property or financial investments. Remote workers may apply for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, designed for freelancers and remote employees. Short stays of less than 90 days within 180 days remain visa-free for unpaid activities. Choosing the right visa early is key to a smooth relocation process.
Despite the paperwork, many factors make relocating to Spain surprisingly manageable. Spain has large, friendly expat communities—over 300,000 Brits already live there—providing support, advice and local insight. Housing platforms and short-term rentals make finding accommodation straightforward, and English is commonly spoken in major cities and popular regions. Professional removals companies, such as Gentlevan Removals, also make the move easier by handling packing, storage, shipping and customs procedures. With good planning, early visa preparation, and a positive mindset, moving to Spain can be an enjoyable and rewarding transition.
Spain is a top destination for foreign workers, offering many benefits. Native English speakers may worry about the language barrier, but it is possible to succeed professionally in Spain even without speaking Spanish. On our blog, you can find the best jobs in Spain for English speakers across different sectors .
Before relocating to Spain, it’s important to research your preferred destination, the cost of living and job opportunities to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle and budget. Decide whether renting or buying a property is the best option for your situation. You’ll also need to familiarise yourself with Spanish visa requirements for UK nationals and gather the necessary documentation, including translations or medical certificates if required. Planning your finances—such as banking, savings, and currency exchange—will make the transition smoother. Proper preparation reduces stress and ensures you're fully ready for the move.
During the move, arrange reliable transport for your belongings and secure suitable housing. It's also a good time to learn basic Spanish and familiarise yourself with local customs. Once in Spain, register for healthcare, obtain health insurance, and complete key administrative tasks such as securing your NIE number. After settling in, register with local authorities, get a local SIM card, explore your new area and start integrating into the community. Understanding Spain’s healthcare system and getting involved in local life will help you feel at home and enjoy everything the country has to offer.
Ready to move to Spain or return to the UK?
Call us on +44 7861 930529
Let Gentlevan Removals handle the logistics while you focus on your new life.
Our track record speaks for itself when it comes to relocating from the United Kingdom to Spain. Over the years, we helped customers in their move to a wide range of locations across Spain, including:
We’ve recently added guides to many of these locations on our blog—be sure to check them out if you’re considering a move!
We understand the importance of ensuring your belongings reach their destination safely and securely. That's why we go the extra mile to offer reliable transportation options you can trust. But we don't stop there. Our experienced and dedicated team will carefully handle your belongings, using high-quality materials to safeguard them from any potential damage.
Gentlevan Removals is dedicated to providing top-quality removal services. We continually improve our services to ensure our customers receive the best possible experience. Our team is committed to professionalism, punctuality, and excellent customer service.
We invite feedback after every move and proudly publish customer reviews—it’s our way of showing full transparency and a commitment to constant improvement.
We are also committed to environmentally friendly practices. Our shared load service saves you money and reduces your move's carbon footprint. We use eco-friendly packaging materials and optimise our logistics to minimise environmental impact.
We believe responsible removals shouldn’t cost the earth – and we make green choices at every opportunity.
Don't just take our word for it; hear from our satisfied customers. Many have praised our efficient service, careful handling of belongings, and friendly staff. We are proud to have built a reputation for reliability and excellence in the industry.