Staying longer on the Costa del Sol: visas and residency
You do not need to be a resident of Spain to own property here. Many foreign owners buy on the Costa del Sol and simply visit when they want. But how long you can stay depends on your nationality, and if you want to live here you need a visa. This guide explains the 90-day rule, the main visa routes, and how residency works. Rules change often, so always use an independent Spanish lawyer before you act.
How long you can stay
Owning property in Spain does not give you the right to live here full time. A non-EU citizen, for example from the UK or the US, can visit under the Schengen rules for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
This limit counts all your days across the Schengen area, not just Spain, and it is a rolling total. To stay longer, you need a visa or residence permit.
EU and EEA citizens have no such limit and can stay as long as they wish, though they should register if they stay beyond three months.
- The 90-day count is a rolling total, so track your days
- Overstaying can lead to fines or entry bans
- Owning property does not extend your stay
Visa routes for longer stays
There are two main routes for buyers who want more than 90 days at a time.
Becoming a resident
A visa is your entry route. Once in Spain you apply for a residence permit, and after several years of legal residence you can apply for long-term or permanent status.
The golden visa, which gave residence in return for a property investment, was abolished on 3 April 2025, so you can no longer gain residence by buying property.
- The golden visa ended on 3 April 2025
- Buying property does not give you residence
- More than 183 days a year usually makes you a tax resident
This page is general information, not legal advice. Spanish visa rules and income thresholds change often, and your position depends on your nationality and circumstances. The figures here are approximate. Always use an independent Spanish immigration lawyer before you apply or make any decision.
Common questions about visas and residency
Can I buy property in Spain if I am not a resident?
Yes. There is no restriction on non-residents owning property in Spain. You will need a Spanish tax number, the NIE, and a Spanish bank account is helpful. Owning property does not by itself let you live here full time.
How long can I stay without a visa?
A non-EU citizen, such as from the UK or the US, can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area. To stay longer, you need a visa such as the non-lucrative or digital nomad visa. EU and EEA citizens have no such limit.
Is the golden visa still available?
No. Spain abolished the golden visa on 3 April 2025, so you can no longer gain residence by buying property. If you want to live here longer term, look at the non-lucrative or digital nomad visa instead.
Does buying property give me residency?
No. Property ownership and residency are separate. You can own a home and visit within the 90-day rule, but to live here you apply for a visa and then a residence permit.
When do I become a Spanish tax resident?
Usually when you spend more than 183 days in Spain in a calendar year. At that point Spain can tax your worldwide income, so take specialist tax advice before you move.
The mechanics, in full detail:
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