How to live in Europe long term as UK passport holder post Brexit (2026)
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- UK Skilled Worker Visagov.uk
- Make it in Germany - Opportunity Cardmake-it-in-germany.com
- Spain Digital Nomad Visainclusion.gob.es
Last reviewed: 2026-06-14 · How we source facts
Pipeline-refreshed guide · ~1,680 words
1. Understanding Your Visa Options
As a UK passport holder, your options for long-term residency in Europe post-Brexit primarily include the Skilled Worker Visa for the UK, the Opportunity Card in Germany, and the Digital Nomad Visa in Spain. Each visa has specific requirements and processing times, so it's essential to understand which one aligns with your situation. For instance, the Skilled Worker Visa requires a job offer and a salary of at least £38,700/year. [source: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa]
2. Skilled Worker Visa in the UK
To apply for the Skilled Worker Visa, you must have a job offer from a licensed UK employer and meet the salary threshold. The application process typically takes about 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK. The visa is valid for up to 5 years and can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after continuous residence. The application fee starts from £719, and you must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of £1,035/year. [source: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa]
3. Opportunity Card in Germany
Germany offers the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), a points-based visa allowing skilled workers to search for jobs. Applicants must meet a minimum points threshold based on qualifications, work experience, and language skills. Processing times can vary, often taking 6-12 weeks. Additionally, proof of health insurance is mandatory. [source: https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence/skilled-immigration/chance-card]
4. Digital Nomad Visa in Spain
Spain's Digital Nomad Visa allows UK citizens to work remotely for non-Spanish clients. To qualify, you must demonstrate a minimum income of 200% of Spain's SMI, which is published annually. The processing time for this visa is typically around 20 days for complete applications. [source: https://www.inclusion.gob.es/web/migraciones/w/autorizacion-de-residencia-para-teletrabajo-de-caracter-internacional]
5. Cost of Living Considerations
When relocating, it's crucial to consider the cost of living in your chosen city. For example, London has an average monthly budget of £3,800, while Berlin averages £2,600, and Barcelona around £2,800. Rent prices vary significantly, with London being the most expensive at approximately £1,900 for a 1-bedroom apartment, compared to £1,200 in Berlin and £1,300 in Barcelona. [source: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/London, https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Berlin, https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Barcelona]
6. Preparing for Your Move
Before moving, ensure you have all necessary documents prepared, including proof of employment, financial stability, and health insurance. It's also advisable to familiarize yourself with local laws and customs in your destination country. Consider joining expat groups online to gain insights and tips from those who have made similar moves.
7. Settling In and Integration
Once you arrive, focus on integrating into your new community. This may involve learning the local language, understanding cultural norms, and building a social network. Many cities offer resources for newcomers, including language classes and community events, which can help ease the transition.
Official sources
Verified official sources
Intent layer: corridor strategy · Search stage: process
- UK Skilled Worker Visagov.uk — The Skilled Worker Visa requires a job offer and a salary of at least £38,700/year.
- Make it in Germany - Opportunity Cardmake-it-in-germany.com — Germany offers the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), a points-based visa allowing skilled workers to search for jobs.
- Spain Digital Nomad Visainclusion.gob.es — Spain's Digital Nomad Visa allows UK citizens to work remotely for non-Spanish clients.
Who · How · Why
How this page was built
Who
SetTern relocation intent pipeline
How
OpenAI (gpt-4o-mini) summarizing immigration fact registry + Supabase verified_facts; citation-gated; no invented statistics. AI-assisted drafts are gated on verified_facts and human editorial policy.
Why
Cover corridor_strategy search intent for organic and AI citation growth.
Last substantive review: 2026-06-14
City pulse · 19 Sep 2026 · catalog
Daily life
Cited catalog notes until a live digest publishes.
- CostTypical London monthly budget runs about $2,800–$5,500 (catalog avg ~$3,800).
- CostTypical Berlin monthly budget runs about $1,800–$3,800 (catalog avg ~$2,600).
- Expat community
London reads ~99% English-friendly in catalog scoring; climate note: Mild, 8–22°C, frequently overcast.
- Expat community
Berlin reads ~70% English-friendly in catalog scoring; climate note: Continental, -5°C to 30°C.
Community pulse
What relocators discuss
Live digest pending — check Insights meanwhile. London · All cities
FAQs
- What is the salary threshold for the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
- The salary threshold for the Skilled Worker Visa is £38,700/year or the going rate, whichever is higher. [source: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa]
- How long does it take to process a visa application for Germany?
- Visa processing in Germany can vary but often takes 6–12 weeks for national visas. [source: https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence]
- What are the living costs in Berlin?
- The average monthly budget in Berlin is approximately £2,600, with rent for a 1-bedroom apartment around £1,200. [source: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Berlin]
- Can UK citizens work while studying in Germany?
- Yes, students in Germany can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. [source: https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/study-training/study/working]
- What is the minimum income requirement for Spain's Digital Nomad Visa?
- The minimum income requirement for Spain's Digital Nomad Visa is 200% of Spain's SMI, which is published annually. [source: https://www.inclusion.gob.es/web/migraciones]
- How long can I stay in Germany on a student visa?
- A student visa in Germany typically allows you to stay for the duration of your studies, plus an additional 18 months for job seeking after graduation. [source: https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence/skilled-immigration/eu-blue-card]
Related pages
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