If you plan to moving to Europe after Brexit, there are a number of new rules and requirements you’ll need to understand. Whether you’re moving for work, study, retirement, or a lifestyle change, Brexit has altered how UK nationals can live, travel, and work in the European Union.
When the U.K. was a member of the E.U., visitors and long-term residents were affected by systems and rules that aren’t yet in place. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you get ready before moving to Europe after Brexit.
Entry for Short Stays: What Has Changed?
UK nationals are third-country citizens of the European Union since the UK left the EU. Freedom of movement no longer exists for them. But U.K. citizens can still venture to E.U. countries for tourism or business — but under new rules.
EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
The EES is an automated border control system scheduled to be fully deployed in 2026. When UK nationals arrive in or depart from the Schengen Area, the system documents:
- Passport data
- Entry and exit dates
- The use of biometric data (fingerprints and facial scans)
Instead of the time-consuming process of manually stamping the passport, this system also enhances security at the border by identifying overstays and the off-movement.
ETIAS Authorization
Alongside EES, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will be required for UK citizens visiting Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
ETIAS is not a visa, but a pre-travel authorisation that is required. You will need to:
- Apply online in advance
- Pay a small fee (expected around €7)
- Provide basic details and answer security questions
- Wait for confirmation (usually issued quickly unless there are alerts)
ETIAS approval will be valid for multiple entries over a three-year period.
Moving to Europe After Brexit for Long-Term Stays
For those who will be staying more than 90 days, or for those, like me, looking to live in Europe, the process is a little more involved. There are visas and residency systems for every EU country.
Visas and Residency Permits
If you are UK citizens living in Europe after Brexit rules, you will need a visa or residence permit for that country. These are often tied to:
- Employment – A Job offer may be necessary prior to application.
- Self-employed / Business – Evidence of business and proof of business activities and income.
- Study – Registration at an established university.
- Family Reunion – Join EU-based family members.
- Retirement or Long stay – Evidence of livelihood, healthcare, and residence.
Normally visas need to be obtained before travelling, and possibly also the following:
- Criminal background checks
- Medical insurance
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Accommodation documentation
Moving to Spain from UK after Brexit 2026
Spain is still a top spot for Britons living abroad. But in 2026, you will need to meet the moving to Europe after Brexit requirements, for example:
- Obtaining a Spanish visa (Non-Lucrative / Work / Student Visa or any type of long stay visa)
- Residence permit in the first 30 days
- Empadronamiento (registering at your local town hall)
- Obtaining a NIE number (Número de Identificación de Extranjeros) – which is needed for everything from taxes to utilities and banking
Spain has a Digital Nomad Visa as well, which is best suited for remote workers and freelancers.
Banking and Financial Setup
One of the first steps you’ll take once you arrive is to set up a bank account in your new country. Most European banks will let foreigners open accounts, but they will likely require:
- Passport
- Residency permit or visa
- Proof of address
- Employment or income details
You can either go with a traditional bank or with an online bank like Revolut, N26 or Wise, which most expats use.
Healthcare Access
Every E.U. country has its own national health care system, and the availability may depend on the type of visa you hold.
- Private health insurance may be necessary for retirees or others who have lived there for an extended period of time.
- Workers and students may be insured under national schemes through contributions or enrolment.
- GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) grants limited access and is not a substitute for health insurance.
Make sure you know what your rights and requirements are so that you have a chance to have the procedure covered.
Taxation and Legal Obligations
Your tax status in the UK may be altered by living abroad. How long you stay could cause you to become a tax resident in your new country.
Consider:
- DTTs with respect to the UK and the EU countries
- If you will still have to pay tax in the UK ( particularly if you have UK earnings)
- Municipal income and social security tax
Car Shipping and Transportation
Car shipping is also a key aspect of your move that is too often forgotten. Let’s also not forget about Brexit and car shipping from UK to Europe, which has made the case more complicated.
If you ship your car in 2026:
- You might have to declare it at customs
- VAT and import duties may be applied
- Proof of ownership and insurance is needful
- You must re-register your vehicle in your new country, usually within 6–12 months
Some nations have additional standards for compliance with local road safety standards. If you’re staying longer term, you will need to re-register the vehicle to get local plates. You can rely on Ascope Shipping to make everything easy and ship your vehicle at an affordable price.
Travel Documents and Validity
Your UK passport must be:
- To a minimum of six months remaining beyond your date of intended stay.
- Published in the past 10 years.
You will no longer be able to use EU ID cards or the EHIC. Just don’t forget to renew your passport with plenty of time and watch the entry rules for your chosen destination.
Learn More about moving to Europe After Brexit
UK citizens are moving to Europe after Brexit rules. Relocating to Europe post Brexit in 2026 will take some preparation, with new entry systems in place such as EES and ETIAS. And as for moving to Spain, France, Germany, or any such EU nation, the days of easy relocation are gone – although it is entirely possible with well-laid moving plans. You can trust Ascope Shipping to handle your shipping needs. With more than 15 years of experience, we can meet your requirements.
