Spain
Mediterranean Living & Property Investment
Own property freehold on the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca. The Golden Visa ended in April 2025; residency routes remain open via the non-lucrative and digital-nomad visas.
Spain is one of Europe's most sought-after destinations for living and investment, with year-round sun, mature infrastructure and a strong rental market. IMPORTANT: Spain's Golden Visa (residency by property) was fully abolished on 3 April 2025. However, foreigners can still buy real estate freehold in Spain; those wishing to live in Spain can use separate residency routes such as the non-lucrative (passive income) visa or the digital-nomad visa. The Costa del Sol (Marbella, Estepona, Mijas) and Costa Blanca (Alicante, Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa) stand out for both lifestyle and short-term rental yield.
Spain Residency & Living Routes
Non-Lucrative (Passive Income) Visa
Digital Nomad Visa
Key Facts About Spain
| Currency | Euro (€) |
|---|---|
| EU / Schengen | Member |
| Foreign ownership | Full freehold, no restrictions (NIE number required) |
| Golden Visa | Abolished on 3 April 2025 |
| Residency route | Non-lucrative visa or digital-nomad visa |
| Purchase costs | Resale ITP 6-10%; new-build 10% VAT + costs |
| Short-term rental | Allowed (subject to regional tourist licence) |
Spain Property & Residency FAQ
Is the Spain Golden Visa still available?
No. Spain's residency-by-property Golden Visa was fully abolished as of 3 April 2025. Buying property no longer grants residency directly; instead you can consider separate routes such as the non-lucrative or digital-nomad visa.
Can I buy property in Spain as a foreigner?
Yes. Foreigners can buy residential and commercial property freehold in their own name in Spain. The only requirement is obtaining an NIE (foreigner ID number); Resida Global handles the process.
Can I live in Spain if I buy property?
Ownership alone does not grant residency. To live in Spain you apply for the non-lucrative (passive income) or digital-nomad visa; your property becomes your address. Visa-free, you can stay up to 90 days in any 180.
What is the rental yield like?
Short-term tourist rental demand is strong on the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca; however short-term letting requires a regional tourist licence. Long-term rental also provides steady returns.
What are the total purchase costs?
Resale property carries ITP transfer tax of 6-10% by region; new-build carries 10% VAT + 1.5% stamp duty. Including notary, registry and lawyer, total extra costs are typically around 10-13%.
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Lifestyle, retirement or rental yield — assess the Spanish properties on the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca that fit your goals with our expert team.