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If I buy a house in Spain, do I get residency?

Buying a property in Spain used to be a way to access legal residency through the Golden Visa. However, as of April 2025, this mechanism has been officially eliminated by the Spanish government. In this updated article, I explain what alternatives exist today to obtain residency, what benefits remain when purchasing a home, and how to immigrate to Spain legally, safely, and strategically.

Residency in Spain: Can I obtain it by buying a property?

At the moment, The purchase of a property no longer automatically grants the right to reside in Spain.Until April 2025, this was possible through the Golden Visa, a residency program for foreign investors. Since its elimination, access routes linked solely to real estate investment have been closed.

However, buying a home can still be part of your immigration plan, as long as it's combined with other types of visas or residence permits.

How to access a residency? Current options

With the disappearance of the Golden Visa, other legal forms of residency in Spain remain in effect. Each has specific requirements, and the choice depends on your professional, financial, or personal situation.

Main routes to legal residency in 2025

Non-profit residence: Ideal if you have your own financial means and don't need to work in Spain. You must demonstrate regular income or sufficient savings (approximately €2,400 per month plus €600 per accompanying family member), private health insurance, and no work activities in Spain.
Work visa for someone else or for yourself: If a Spanish company hires you, you can apply for this visa from your home country. It's also possible to start a self-employed business with a viable business plan, the necessary licenses, and financial solvency.
Digital Nomad Permit: In force since 2023, it allows you to legally reside in Spain if you work remotely for companies outside the country. It requires proof of a stable freelance contract or activity, income over €2,600 per month, and a professional connection abroad.
Residence for studies: If you enroll in a master's degree, bachelor's degree, or approved course, you can legally reside while studying. This visa can be extended and converted into a work permit later.
Social or family roots: Pathways available for people who have lived in Spain continuously and can demonstrate family ties or social integration.

Consulting with a specialized immigration attorney remains key to finding the most appropriate option and preparing your documentation in accordance with the latest regulatory changes.

Benefits of buying a property in Spain

Although it no longer provides direct residency, Buying a home still has multiple benefits:

Financial and asset stability: You protect your savings in a tangible asset with appreciation potential, especially in high-demand areas.
Opportunity to generate rental income: In cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga, residential or tourist rentals can be a profitable and ongoing source of income.
Access to a second residence: You can enjoy the property for up to 90 days per semester as a tourist if you are a non-EU citizen, or longer if you have another form of residence.
Connection with the country: Establishing a domicile, registering as a resident, and maintaining an active connection to Spain can facilitate future applications for residency based on roots or mixed investments.

Does renting give me rights?

Renting a property in itself does not generate residency rights, but Yes, it can be part of a migration strategy. if accompanied by other valid permits.

Census: You can register with a rental agreement, which is necessary to enroll children in school, obtain healthcare, or prove length of stay.
Support for visas based on roots: If you spend time in Spain regularly and legally, providing proof of rental contracts can be useful when applying for regularization based on social roots.
Transition to other options: If your initial plan isn't permanent, renting allows you to explore different cities, regions, or lifestyles before taking the final step toward purchasing or legal residency.

Luxury villas: a unique option

Although they no longer provide automatic immigration benefits, Luxury villas remain an excellent choice for those who want to invest in well-being, exclusivity, and quality of life.

Unparalleled location and privacy: Marbella, Ibiza, Costa Brava, and Sotogrande offer natural surroundings, tranquility, and a high level of services.
Design, technology and comfort: Contemporary architecture, home automation, infinity pools, private gardens, top-quality materials, and enhanced security.
Valorization potential: Luxury villas maintain a solid market, with constant international demand.
Extraordinary life experience: If you want to spend time in Spain in style or work remotely from a privileged location, a well-located villa will change the way you experience the world.

Advantages of buying or renting a property with Luxus

Luxus Real Estates offers specialized support for those seeking excellence and security in their real estate investment in Spain:

Curation of premium properties: They only offer homes that meet rigorous criteria of quality, design, location, and profitability potential.
Legal and technical support: They help you understand current immigration requirements, evaluate legal options, and prepare your purchase with complete transparency.
Comprehensive and humane service: From the search to the after-sales process, you'll have professionals who understand your needs and act as strategic partners.
International network: Luxus collaborates with trusted managers, lawyers, architects, designers, and administrators across the country.

Discover your portfolio at buying a property in Spain and take the first step toward a life with more style, comfort and stability.

Benefits of emigrating to Spain

Spain remains one of the most popular destinations for those looking to start a new life in Europe. The reasons are as diverse as the profiles of those who choose it.

If you are young

Access to quality higher education: Public and private universities with programs in Spanish and English.
Dynamic cultural environment: Music, art, sports, and vibrant nightlife in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia.
Networking and entrepreneurship networks: Active startup communities, incubators, and growing job opportunities.

If you come with family

Universal and quality healthcare system: Free for residents and with access through agreements for other modalities.
Public and private bilingual education: Schools with international programs, access to free public education.
Safety and quality of life: Walkable cities, low levels of violence, and high overall well-being.

If you come for work

Specialized labor market: Opportunities in tourism, technology, healthcare, engineering, education, and more.
Guaranteed labor rights: Regulated contracts, vacations, licenses, and health coverage.
Flexible professional culture: Work-life balance, reduced working hours in many sectors.

If you are a digital nomad

Specific visa in force: It allows you to reside in Spain while working for foreign companies.
Technological infrastructure and connectivity: Good access to fiber optics and coworking spaces.
Climate, gastronomy and relaxed lifestyle: Ideal for those looking to combine productivity and pleasure.