Question 1

Do I need a visa to move to Alicante from the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes. After Brexit, UK citizens are non-EU and can only stay 90 days in any 180. To live in Spain you need a residency visa — typically the Non-Lucrative Visa (passive income), Digital Nomad Visa, or a work/family route. We help you identify and apply for the right one.

Question 2

How long does residency take?

Accepted Answer

Realistically 2–4 months from start to physical TIE card, depending on the visa route, consulate appointments and paperwork. We sequence the steps to avoid delays.

Question 3

What is an NIE and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is your Spanish foreign identity number. You need it to open a bank account, sign a rental, buy property, set up utilities and pay tax.

Question 4

Can you handle the appointments for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We coordinate NIE, padrón (local registration) and TIE appointments with our local team and partner law firm to minimise delays.

Question 5

Should I rent or buy first?

Accepted Answer

We always recommend renting for the first 6–12 months. It lets you experience neighbourhoods, schools and lifestyle before committing. Our Settle and Family packages include a curated rental shortlist.

Question 6

Which Alicante areas are best for British movers?

Accepted Answer

Popular areas include the city centre (Centro and Mercado), Playa San Juan (beach lifestyle), Albufereta, San Vicente del Raspeig (university area, good for families) and nearby coastal towns like El Campello. We match areas to your priorities in our diagnostic.

Question 7

Do I need private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

For most residency visas (Non-Lucrative, Digital Nomad) you must have full private health insurance with no copays and no exclusions. We help you choose a Spanish-resident-grade policy that meets the legal requirement.

Question 8

Can I keep using the NHS or use the EHIC/GHIC?

Accepted Answer

GHIC only covers tourists. Once you're a resident, you join the Spanish system. Some retirees can apply for an S1 form to access Spanish public healthcare via the UK — we cover this in the diagnostic.

Question 9

Are there British or international schools in Alicante?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Several British and international schools serve the Costa Blanca, alongside excellent bilingual Spanish concertados. Our Family Relocation package includes a school shortlist tailored to your kids' ages and your area.

Question 10

How does pricing work?

Accepted Answer

We sell fixed-price packages, not hourly consulting. Each package lists exactly what's included. Optional extras have published prices too — see the Pricing page.

Question 11

Is the first call really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The first 20-minute call is free with no obligation. We use it to understand your situation and recommend the right package — or to tell you honestly that you don't need our help.

Common questions, honest answers.

Visa & residency

NIE & paperwork

Housing

Health insurance

Schools

Pricing & process