Apartment in Spain for a residency permit
In 2024, the "Golden Visa" programme continues to offer buyers the opportunity to purchase an apartment in Spain and obtain a residence permit. The CBI website features listings tailored to your specifications and budget. By partnering with reputable agencies and developers, along with our comprehensive legal support, the process of legalisation in the European Union becomes quick and straightforward. You can secure a residence permit in Spain by buying one or several properties, which can vary in location, size, layout, decor and technical amenities.
Apartments and flats in Spain maintain consistently high demand among foreigners, who purchase them for family living, seasonal vacations, long-term investments or rental income. Local resorts attract tourists worldwide, driving demand and increasing prices per square metre. Apartments prices in Spain start from EUR 41,000, reaching up to EUR 22 million. The main factors affecting the transaction amount include:
- The city and prestige of the neighbourhood. Most high-yield properties are found in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Benidorm and Marbella;
- Floor level and views of the sea or city;
- Size and layout specifics;
- Availability of 24/7 security, pools, gyms, parking and other amenities. Investors in apartments for sale in Spain in new buildings typically benefit from the most services;
- Finishings, appliances and furnishings;
- Number of bedrooms and bathrooms. Spanish apartments with more than two bedrooms usually include a second bathroom.
Investing in new property in Spain offers rental income guarantees from trusted developers. The resale market appeals due to initial lower investments unless they involve exclusive projects. On average, a square metre costs EUR 2,300, with properties in Barcelona, Madrid and San Sebastián being the most expensive, ranging from EUR 3,130 per square metre to EUR 7,293 per square metre.
Residence permit in Spain by buying an apartment
Completing the transaction now allows you to become a temporary resident of Spain within two to six months, with unrestricted entry to Schengen states. Additionally, the residence permit enables business ownership and employment anywhere in the area, with eligibility for permanent residence after five years and citizenship after ten years.
The steps to buy an apartment in Spain and obtain a residence permit are as follows:
- Evaluate offers: Review options from trusted developers and agencies. A Golden Visa can be granted for any number of apartments in Spain for investment, provided the total investment is at least EUR 500,000, excluding taxes and related fees;
- Complete the transaction: Follow legal guidelines to finalise the purchase and secure a title of ownership;
- Meet migration requirements: Provide necessary documentation, including personal identification, proof of a clean criminal record, evidence of good health and confirmation of financial stability. If family members (spouse, children) are included, marriage and birth certificates must be provided;
- Await approval: After submission, you’ll receive your residence permit card, which is valid for three years and can be renewed indefinitely.
Investment apartment in Spain
The real estate market in Spain is highly attractive to international buyers. Last year, prices of apartments and villas in Spain increased by 5.33% and analysts predict that this trend will continue. The legislation encourages foreign investment, offering opportunities to acquire housing in popular locations with the prospect of a residence permit. The purchasing process is swift and property tax rates are low. Maintenance costs vary depending on the size of the property, the prestige of the complex and the available amenities.
An apartment for sale in Spain offers both a comfortable retreat and a source of passive income. On average, rental yields reach 7.25% annually; however, with careful property selection, returns can rise to 12.7%. The time required to recoup the investment depends on the purchase price. Properties bought for EUR 200,000 to EUR 300,000 can break even within eight to eleven years. However, to qualify for a residence permit, multiple properties may be necessary.
Yes, non-residents can freely own and manage flats in Spain in 2024.
Yes, through the Golden Visa programme, provided you meet the financial requirements (EUR 28,800 annual income), have a clean criminal record for the past five years and obtain Spanish health insurance. For family members, an additional EUR 7,200 per person must be available in your bank account. To renew the visa, you must maintain property ownership and comply with local laws.
An investment of at least EUR 500,000 in one or multiple properties across various regions, whether new or resale, is required to apply for a residence permit. The total transaction amount must meet this threshold, excluding fees, taxes and additional costs.
The ideal location depends on your goals: permanent family residence, occasional vacation, resale or rental. Versatile options include Barcelona, Valencia, Andalusia (especially Marbella) and Costa Blanca resorts like Benidorm. Madrid is well-suited for business ventures and offers a vibrant cultural life.