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The Daily Insight

Can you have dual residency in Spain and UK?

Author

Ava Robinson

Published Feb 14, 2026

The British government does recognise dual citizenship between Spain and the UK, so they will also not ask you to renounce your British passport, or your British citizenship. On the issue, a representative from the Spanish embassy said that “Dual citizenship (also known as dual nationality) is allowed in the UK.

What are the requirements for Spanish residency?

Residency card

  • NIE, or your foreigner’s tax number.
  • Your S1 form if you are a pensioner or proof of Spanish health insurance if not.
  • Proof of fee payment for the residencia application (paid at any Spanish bank)
  • The completed residency application form.
  • Passport.
  • Two passport size photos.
  • Proof of income.

    Can a UK citizen apply for permanent residency in Spain?

    On the other hand, there was the case of those UK citizens who had been living in Spain for 5 years already. In that case, they had two options: After those 5 years, the UK citizen had already obtained their EU permanent residency card.

    When do I need to apply for Spanish residency?

    This means there are now new Spanish residency requirements for British citizens / UK nationals effective from January 1st 2021. British citizens / UK nationals now have to follow the same process as other non-EU national citizens of third countries to get Spanish residency.

    When to apply for Spanish residency after Brexit?

    Nevertheless, if they were in Spain before January 2021, then still have time to get their residency easily as if they were EU citizens (and the same happens to their relatives). This is the only exception. That’s why we recommend that you start as soon as possible just no matter your situation.

    What are the requirements for a residence permit in Spain?

    If you meet all the basic requirements, you will be granted a residence permit in Spain to live beyond December 31. These requirements are the same as for any European citizen who starts living in Spain. Basically, you must have sufficient economic means and medical insurance.