The Costa Blanca is one of the preferred destinations in Europe to retire, and not by chance: more than 300 days of sunshine a year, mild temperatures in winter, a moderate cost of living compared to northern Europe, good health and international communities already settled throughout the province of Alicante. But moving to Spain to pass retirement involves solving three things well: residency, health and taxes. This guide explains it with data updated to 2026.
Yes it is Citizen of the European Union, EEA or Switzerland, has the right to reside in Spain; You only have to register in the Central Registry of Foreigners and obtain their resident certificate, accrediting economic means and health. Yes it is from outside the EU (e.g. UK after Brexit), the usual way for retirees is the Non-profit visa: allows you to live in Spain without working, requires accrediting passive income —€28,800 per year For the main applicant and €7,200 more for each family member in 2026—and private health insurance. It is one year, renewable for periods of 2+2, and requires residing more than 183 days a year.
EU/EEA pensioners (and Britons who receive UK state pension, under the retreat agreement) can access the Spanish Public Health through Form S1, which transfers the cost of your assistance to your country of origin. Whoever is not entitled to the S1 can hire a Private medical insurance —mandatory, furthermore, for non-profit visa— or signing the Special Agreement with public health paying a monthly fee. It is advisable to resolve this point before moving, not after.
If you spend more than 183 days a year In Spain, it becomes tax resident and tax for its world income, including pensions. How exactly do you pay your pension depends on the DOUBLE TAXATION AGREEMENT Between Spain and his country: In many cases, private pensions are taxed in Spain, while some public pensions continue to pay taxes in the country of origin. In addition, residents with goods abroad above certain thresholds must present the 720 information model. It is a land where a tax advisor saves dislikes: plan it before moving your residence.
The province offers very different profiles. In the North Costa Blanca, Towns such as Jávea, Dénia, Moraira or Altea are quiet, with charm and good sanitary services, although with higher prices. In the Costa Blanca South, Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Rojales or Ciudad Quesada offer more content, great international community and easy to travel, something to value with age. For retirement, it is usually interested in home of single floor or with elevator, close to medical centre, pharmacy and trade.
Moving to another country is a big decision with many open fronts at the same time. As a estate agent, I help you choose the Zone and the home suitable for their lifestyle, I coordinate the purchase procedures (NIE, Notary, Lawyer) and I guide you on the professionals you need for residence and taxation, so that you arrive with everything resolved.
Yes. The usual route is the non-profit visa, which allows you to live in Spain without working, accrediting passive income (€28,800 per year, the main applicant in 2026) and private health insurance.
EU/EEA pensioners and UK state pensioners can access through Form S1. Anyone who does not have that right can contract private insurance or the Special Agreement of Public Health.
If you reside more than 183 days a year, you are a tax resident and tax for your world income. How the pension is taxed depends on the double taxation agreement with your country; It is advisable to consult a tax advisor.
No. The Golden Visa for purchase was abolished in April 2025. Buying reinforces its roots but the residence is processed separately (registration as a community or non-profit visa).
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