The province of Malaga is home to more than 40,000 British residents, with many more owning properties and spending part of the year in the region. For those looking to make their stay more permanent, navigating Spanish residency and legal requirements can be a complex process.

To address these concerns, SUR in English, in collaboration with British consular services in Spain and Marbella town hall, hosted an informative event on Friday, 4 April, at the Palacio de Congresos fair and conference centre in Marbella. The event brought together experts from various sectors to provide essential guidance on residency, legal matters, insurance, and taxation.

Navigating Post-Brexit Changes for British Residents

The UK's departure from the EU five years ago brought significant changes for British nationals living in Spain. The British consular services in Spain play a crucial role in assisting both residents and tourists, ensuring they are aware of their rights and obligations. One of the key objectives of the Marbella event was to help British nationals understand these changes and how they impact residency, property ownership, and financial planning.

Lucy Gorman, Consular Regional Operations Manager for Spain and Andorra, along with Malaga Vice-Consul Miriam Pérez, addressed a range of issues affecting British nationals. They provided insights into the latest regulations and answered pressing questions about residence permits and welfare benefits for UK citizens in Spain.

Expert Legal, Insurance, and Tax Advice

Alongside representatives from the British Consulate, the event featured a panel of experts offering guidance on legal, insurance, and tax matters.

• Jonathan Sutton – Spanish lawyer ('abogado') and partner at Decotta Law, who provided clarity on legal processes, including property law and residency applications.

• Diana Lise Pérez Buck – Department of Institutional Relations and Sustainability at Allianz Insurance, who offered advice on healthcare and insurance options for British nationals.

• Bryan Wawman – CEO of Castle Rock International Law & Investments, who discussed financial planning and investment strategies for expatriates.

• Pablo Espejo Vergara – Partner in Andalucía at Martínez Echevarría, who tackled taxation concerns, particularly changes affecting British residents post-Brexit.

Key Takeaways from the Event

The discussions highlighted the importance of staying informed about local regulations and seeking professional advice to avoid potential legal and financial pitfalls. Key points included:

• Residency Applications: British nationals must ensure they have the correct paperwork for residency applications, including proof of sufficient financial means and healthcare coverage.

• Tax Implications: The shift in tax status for UK nationals living in Spain means it is crucial to understand tax obligations, including wealth and inheritance tax considerations.

• Healthcare and Insurance: Access to healthcare for UK nationals in Spain has changed post-Brexit, making private insurance an increasingly important option.

• Property Investment: Spain remains a popular destination for British property buyers, but legal guidance is recommended to navigate local property laws and taxation issues effectively.

Looking Ahead: Support for British Nationals in Spain

With an ever-growing British community in Spain, events like this play a vital role in keeping residents and prospective movers informed. British consular services remain a valuable resource for those needing guidance on legal, residency, and welfare matters.

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As Spain continues to be a favored destination for UK nationals, staying updated on legal, financial, and residency matters will ensure a smooth transition for those planning to settle in this beautiful country.