What changed
For years, Spain gave a residence permit to non-EU citizens who invested in Spanish property. Ley Orgánica 1/2025 ended that route: applications under it closed on 3 April 2025. Since then, buying a home in Spain, at any price, no longer gives you a residence permit.
Buying itself has not changed. Anyone can still buy property in Spain with an NIE number, and the steps, costs and taxes are the same as before.
If you already have a golden visa
Permits that were already granted were not taken away by that change. As far as we understand, they can be renewed under the rules that applied, but the conditions depend on your case and the details matter. Check your own position with an immigration lawyer before your permit is due for renewal.
This guide is general information, not legal advice.
EU and EEA citizens never needed it
If you are a citizen of the EU or EEA, you may live in Spain freely. You register at the Extranjería if you stay longer than three months and receive a certificado de registro. The end of the golden visa changes nothing for you.
Alternatives for non-EU buyers
UK and other non-EU citizens can stay in Spain for 90 days in any 180 without a visa. To live there, these are the usual routes. Each has its own conditions, so have them checked for your situation.
- Non-lucrative visa: for people who can support themselves from income or savings without working in Spain, usually with private health insurance.
- Digital nomad visa: for people who work remotely for employers or clients mainly outside Spain.
- Work: a job with a Spanish employer, or setting up as self-employed, with the matching permit.
- Study: a student visa for a recognised course in Spain.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Have your own situation checked by a lawyer or tax adviser.
Frequently asked questions
Does Spain still have a golden visa?
Not for real estate investment. Applications through buying property closed on 3 April 2025, under Ley Orgánica 1/2025.
Does buying a property in Spain give me residency?
No. Since the golden visa for property ended, owning a home in Spain does not give you a residence permit, whatever the price.
Can I still buy property in Spain without a golden visa?
Yes. Buying and residence are separate. Anyone can buy with an NIE number; the visa question only matters if you want to stay longer than 90 days in any 180.
What happens to my existing golden visa?
Permits already granted were not taken away by the change, and can be renewed under the rules that applied. Check the details for your case with an immigration lawyer.
What is the non-lucrative visa?
A residence visa for non-EU citizens who can support themselves without working in Spain, from a pension, income or savings. It usually requires private health insurance.