Buying a property in Spain does not automatically give you the right to live there. While owning real estate allows you to invest in the country, staying in Spain for more than 90 days within any 180-day period generally requires a valid visa or residency permit if you are a non-EU citizen.
Choosing the correct residency pathway depends on your nationality, employment, income, and long-term plans.
Key takeaway: Property ownership alone does not grant residency. If you plan to live in Spain for extended periods, you will need the appropriate visa or residency status based on your personal circumstances.
Does Buying Property Give You Residency?
No.
Purchasing property in Spain gives you ownership rights but does not automatically provide the right to live in the country.
Non-EU citizens wishing to remain in Spain beyond the standard visitor limits must obtain an appropriate visa or residence permit.
What Happened to the Golden Visa?
Until April 2025, Spain’s Golden Visa programme allowed non-EU citizens to obtain residency through qualifying real estate investments.
This programme has now been discontinued for new applicants.
Existing Golden Visa holders may continue renewing their permits where eligible, but new applications are no longer accepted.
Which Residency Options Are Available?
Several residency pathways remain available depending on your personal situation.
| Visa Type | Suitable For | Main Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Lucrative Visa | Retirees and individuals with passive income | Sufficient financial means and private health insurance |
| Digital Nomad Visa | Remote employees and freelancers | Remote employment or self-employment meeting income requirements |
| Entrepreneur Visa | Business owners and entrepreneurs | Approved business project and investment plan |
| Work Visa | Professionals employed in Spain | Employment contract and employer sponsorship |
| Family Reunification | Family members of Spanish residents | Proof of family relationship and financial requirements |
Our Legal Department can advise on the most appropriate residency option based on your circumstances.
What If You’re an EU or EEA Citizen?
Citizens of EU and EEA countries do not require a visa to live in Spain.
If you intend to stay for more than three months, you must register as a resident with the Spanish authorities and complete the relevant administrative formalities.
Our Legal Department assists clients throughout this registration process.
What About UK Citizens?
Following Brexit, UK nationals are generally treated as non-EU citizens.
Without residency, visits are normally limited to 90 days within any 180-day period throughout the Schengen Area.
If you plan to spend longer periods in Spain or relocate permanently, obtaining the correct residency status before moving is highly recommended.
How Can Mojo Help?
Our Legal Department assists clients with:
- Residency advice
- Visa guidance
- NIE applications
- Residency registrations
- Administrative procedures
- Ongoing legal support throughout the relocation process
Whether you’re moving permanently, working remotely, or purchasing a holiday home, we’ll help ensure your move is structured correctly from the outset.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Buying a Property Automatically Give Me Residency?
No.
Owning property in Spain does not automatically grant the right to live in the country.
Can EU Citizens Move to Spain Without a Visa?
Yes.
EU and EEA citizens do not require a visa but must complete resident registration if staying for more than three months.
Can UK Citizens Still Live in Spain?
Yes.
However, longer stays generally require an appropriate visa or residence permit following Brexit.
Which Visa Is Best for Me?
The most suitable visa depends on your nationality, employment status, income, and personal circumstances. Our Legal Department can help you identify the most appropriate residency pathway.
Related Guides
- What Is an NIE Number and How Do You Get One?
- How Do You Relocate to the Costa del Sol?
- Legal Department