What should I do if I have a UK life insurance policy?
Last updated: April 2026
If you’ve moved to Spain but still have a life insurance policy from the UK, you’re not alone, and it’s worth checking whether your cover still works as expected.
Regulatory differences between the UK and the EU mean that some policies may not operate in exactly the same way once you’re living in Spain. In many cases, your cover can continue but there are important details you shouldn’t overlook.
Can you keep a UK life insurance policy when living in Spain?
Yes, in many cases you can keep your UK life insurance policy after moving to Spain, but this depends on the insurer. Since Brexit, some UK providers may have limitations when servicing customers living in Spain or elsewhere in the EU, so it’s important to confirm that your policy remains fully valid and manageable from Spain.
This is more likely if certain conditions are met. Some UK providers allow policyholders to maintain their cover while living abroad, particularly if:
- the policy was taken out while you were a UK resident
- premiums continue to be paid from a UK bank account
However, this is not guaranteed. Each insurer has its own rules, and some may have limitations when it comes to servicing UK clients based in the EU.
What changed after Brexit?
Since the UK left the EU, some insurers no longer have the same permissions to operate across European countries.
This could affect:
- how your policy is administered
- whether you can make changes to your cover
- how claims are handled from Spain
That’s why the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) advises policyholders living in the EU to review their policies carefully and contact their provider to confirm how their cover is affected.
What should you check with your provider?
If you already have a UK life insurance policy, it’s worth getting clarity on a few key points:
- Is my policy still fully valid if I live in Spain?
- Can I make changes (e.g. update beneficiaries or cover levels)?
- Will claims be paid without complications from abroad?
- Does my provider still operate within the EU framework?
Getting clear answers now can help you avoid uncertainty later.
When should you consider switching to a policy in Spain?
If your current policy becomes difficult to manage or unclear in terms of coverage, it may be worth considering a local alternative.
This is especially relevant if:
- you now live in Spain full-time
- you spend long periods outside the UK
- you have financial or family ties in Spain
- you want simpler administration and local support
- you own property in Spain and want to ensure all aspects of your protection are aligned, including your home insurance in Spain.
Designed around how you live
Whether you live in Spain full-time, spend part of the year here, or maintain ties with the UK, having a policy aligned with your situation can make a real difference.
A locally managed policy can help reduce administrative barriers and give you confidence that everything will work as expected, when it matters most.
If you’d like to explore this further, you can see all available life insurance options in Spain in our dedicated guide and find the cover that best fits your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep my UK life insurance if I live in Spain?
Often yes, but it depends on your insurer and their ability to operate across borders. Always confirm directly with your provider.
Will my policy still pay out if I die in Spain?
In most cases yes, but it’s essential to check that there are no restrictions or administrative barriers.
Do I need to switch to a Spanish policy?
Not always, but if your current policy is unclear or difficult to manage, switching can simplify things.
What happens if my insurer no longer operates in the EU?
You may still retain your policy, but services such as changes or support could be limited.
Get clarity on your cover
If you’re unsure whether your current UK policy still works for your situation in Spain, it’s worth reviewing your options.
You can also explore how other types of cover, such as home insurance, work differently in Spain.
At Generali, we understand the importance of securing your future with the right insurance cover. Our commitment to providing personalised solutions extends to our tailor-made insurance policies, which offer exceptional benefits at affordable prices.
For expert advice, simply contact one of our over 200 expat brokers and agents. These qualified professionals have the knowledge to provide personalised advice tailored to your specific circumstances. Fluent in several languages, our brokers and agents provide friendly and expert recommendations on the most appropriate insurance cover and options.