Medication

Hello Angie,  I dont know the answer for long term but can give you info from my limited experience.

In relation to three different types of medicine that need a prescription in the UK. I had the old UK packet with me.

1/ when on holiday I asked at the pharmacy for my usual medicine and they said no and that I would need to see a doctor....I was able to manage without. so didn't see one.

2/ another holiday and partner asked for required medicine which he was given no problem for very cheap - less that €6

3/ During lockdown i asked for required medicine and was easily give one months worth but it cost €20

So I guess it depends on what you need.

I would be interested to hear other replies that you get.

Thanks for that. I'm coming for 12 months initially.  Need meds for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and underactive thyroid!

All quite common meds I guess. 😁👍

If you are coming for 12 months, you need to apply for and be granted Residency.

To qualify for Residency, you need to demonstrate

a) an acceptable income level

b) that you have somewhere to live (you own or have leased a home)

c) that you have healthcare.

I assume that you are British (apologies if this assumption is incorrect).

The healthcare option depends on your age. If you are of pensionable age in the UK, you can obtain free healthcare via the Spanish NHS (although it seems that this free service may not be available to those gaining residency after the end of the Brexit Transition Period). Meds will be prescribed by your GP and provided by a Pharmacy (means tested).

If you are below UK pensionable age, you will need to purchase private health insurance. In this case, you will pay for prescribed medicines. Your prospective insurer may choose to exclude pre-existing conditions.

Most people engage a Spanish Solicitor or Gestor to help them through the Residency process. 

Thanks for your reply Will. I will not be a resident as I have assets in uk!  

"I will not be a resident as I have assets in uk!  "

If you are in Spain for more than 183 days in a calendar year you are tax resident in Spain and pay tax on all income earnt worldwide.

You must register as resident and comply with the rules on health cover, driving licence, car registration and so on.

You must declare any group of assets worth over €50,000 held out side Spain (e.g. pension pot, property) and you will be taxed on it, with substantial fines for not declaring it.

It is not an option and the days of just turning up and staying below the parapet are over.

This may change your mind......

https://www.healthplanspain.com/blog/expat-tips/115-residencia-applying-for-residency-in-spain.html

I think you need some serious research before you move!!  

Look at CAB Spain website for all the info you need regarding residencia...it isnt a choice.....more than 90 days here in. 6 month period and you need to apply and fulfill the criteria for residencia or you cannot stay!

Thanks for that Peter. Very helpful. So we pay income here in the uk then again in Spain??? Doesnt seem fair but if that's the way. 

What are the charges / rate please? Then will decide if to become resident permanently or not.

Many Thanks. Angie. 👍😁

Put very simply if you pay tax as a Spanish resident then you may claim any tax paid in the UK against that, or once your residency is established here request that your UK income is paid without deduction and declare it on your Spanish return. It is already complex, and will not get clearer post-Brexit.

You should, as advised above do a lot of research and take professional advice.