10 Years Post-Brexit: The evolution of Anglo-Spanish legal relations
A decade ago, the UK’s departure from the European Union sent shockwaves through the European legal community. For those of us operating at the intersection of English and Spanish law, the challenges seemed monumental.
Today, in 2026, we are no longer managing an active crisis. Instead, we are navigating a mature, highly specialized bilateral landscape.
Here is how the Anglo-Spanish legal relationship has transformed over the last ten years, and what lies ahead.
1. From supranational integration to strategic bilateralism
The days of relying purely on uniform EU law are gone. In its place, a complex web of the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), domestic legislation, and renewed bilateral agreements has emerged.
Despite the friction, economic ties remain incredibly resilient:
• Foreign Direct Investment: the UK remains a primary destination for Spanish corporate investment, particularly in infrastructure, energy, and banking.
• Corporate M&A: Cross-border transactions frequently require a dual-jurisdictional approach, blending English common law contract structures with Spanish civil law compliance.
• International Arbitration: London and Madrid continue to collaborate and compete as premier seats for resolving commercial disputes.
2. The mobility challenge: immigration and talent
Perhaps the most visible shift has been the end of the free movement of persons. Over the past decade, corporate immigration law has become a vital component of cross-border business strategy.
• Corporate mobility: Moving executives and talent between London and Madrid now requires navigating strict visa, sponsorship, and digital nomad frameworks.
• The expat reality: Property acquisitions and residency for British citizens in Spain—and vice versa—have shifted permanently from simple administrative steps to rigorous legal procedures.
3. The 2026 TCA review
As we mark this 10-year milestone, the legal community’s eyes are on the upcoming review of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
In this new landscape, institutional diplomacy and joint efforts by key professional bodies have been essential in mitigating regulatory friction. Organizations like The Law Society of England and Wales, the Consejo General de la Abogacía Española, and major local bar associations (such as ICAM or ICAB) have worked continuously to redefine cross-border practice frameworks and advocate for foreign lawyers’ rights.
This review offers a critical window to address outstanding friction points. For the Anglo-Spanish corridor, key areas to watch include:
• Mutual recognition of professional qualifications.
• Streamlining cross-border data flows and digital trade.
• Enhancing judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.
Our Spanish Desk cross paths and can help to navigate between the legal landscapes between the UK and Spain translating complex international regulations and cross-border tax implications. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need a tailored Anglo-Spanish advice. for more information, contact Yolanda Perez Berges at yolanda.perez@theburnsidepartnership.com.
