legal

Spain Residency Requirements for Property Owners 2026

Comprehensive guide to Spanish residency options for EU and non-EU property owners, including visa types and requirements.

EU Citizens EU citizens have the right to live and work in Spain freely.

After 3 months, you should register for a residence certificate (certificado de registro).

This involves registering at the local Foreigners' Office with proof of income, health insurance, and accommodation.

Non-EU Citizens Non-EU citizens need a visa to stay in Spain longer than 90 days.

Options include the Non-Lucrative Visa (for those with sufficient passive income), the Golden Visa (for €500,000+ property investment), and work visas for those employed by Spanish companies.

Non-Lucrative Visa This visa is ideal for retirees or those with passive income.

Requirements include proof of monthly income of approximately €2,400 (plus €600 per dependent), private health insurance, clean criminal record, and proof of accommodation in Spain.

Maintaining Residency To maintain Spanish tax residency, you must spend more than 183 days per year in Spain, or have your main center of economic interests in Spain.

Residency cards must be renewed periodically.

Path to Citizenship After 10 years of legal residence (5 years for some nationalities), you may apply for Spanish citizenship.

This requires passing language and culture tests and typically requires renouncing your previous citizenship.