Spain has attracted the British for a long time; with long, pleasant summers, warm winters, sandy beaches, clean sea, and spectacular mountains, the lifestyle offered is irresistible. Following Brexit, the market slowed down, but the British returned and bought homes in Spain again.
An aftereffect of the pandemic is that people have now become used to remote working, and many can continue working remotely. This leaves them free to make their home outside their own country. Spain’s more relaxed approach to life, the wonderful weather, the multitude of outdoor activities, and good internet connections make buying a property on the Costa Blanca more attractive than ever.
Brexit's beneficial impact on the UK is the exchange rate, which makes property comparatively reasonable for most British people. This has created a buyers’ market, allowing for better negotiations when buying a villa in the Costa Blanca Spain.
The Spanish economy has recovered well, and the housing market is, therefore, strong and stable, with increased property values and good investment opportunities for those looking for property for sale in Spain.
Although Brexit introduced some changes for British buyers, interest in owning property in Spain has remained strong. Many people continue to purchase holiday homes, investment properties, and permanent residences, attracted by Spain's lifestyle, climate, and excellent travel connections. Those who choose to relocate permanently can explore the residency options available to non-EU citizens.
The long history of owning property in Spain means that there are international communities in many areas offering those relocating an excellent support network. This makes the relocation easier for newcomers who buy a home on the Costa Blanca, and settling in without feeling too homesick will be relatively smooth.
Although Spain's Golden Visa programme has ended, UK and other non-EU citizens can still buy property in Spain. Those wishing to live in Spain for longer than the standard visitor allowance may be eligible for other residency options, including the Digital Nomad Visa for eligible remote workers, the Non-Lucrative Visa for retirees and those with sufficient independent income, or other residence permits depending on their individual circumstances.
With so many direct flights to and from major Spanish and major international airports in the UK, Europe and beyond, staying in touch and visiting with family and friends is both affordable and easy. The Costa Blanca is served by both Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport and Valencia Airport, making travel convenient throughout the year. In many cases, people see each other more once they have relocated than when they all lived in the UK.
Spain has a very good national healthcare system, which gives peace of mind to those who relocate or retire to Spain.
Reports suggest that international interest in buying property in the Costa Blanca North will continue unless any unforeseen changes to the global economy occur. Optimistically, the desire for a more relaxed lifestyle, a warmer climate, and excellent quality of life suggests demand will remain strong for years to come.
Spain is a welcoming country and charms many holidaymakers who dream of moving there, and many have now found that this can become a reality. Those from the UK buying a home on the Costa Blanca can rely on our experienced team at Hamiltons Real Estate (previously Hamiltons of London) to help them realise their ambition.
Yes. Brexit has not stopped UK citizens buying property in Spain. Non-EU buyers simply follow the current purchasing and residency rules.
Yes. Although Spain's Golden Visa programme has ended, all non-EU citizens can still apply for residency through other routes if they meet the relevant requirements. Popular options include the Digital Nomad Visa for eligible remote workers and the Non-Lucrative Visa for retirees or those with sufficient financial means.
No. You do not need a visa simply to purchase property. However, staying in Spain for longer periods or relocating permanently may require the appropriate residency permission.
The Costa Blanca is served by both Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport and Valencia Airport. Depending on where you buy your property, travelling to your new home usually takes between one and one-and-a-half hours from either airport.
Written by the Hamiltons Real Estate team – Updated 2026