If you’re wondering whether foreign nationals can buy property in Spain in 2026, the short answer is yes, Spain remains open and welcoming to international buyers, including those from outside the EU. Although the media has focused on potential new regulations, the reality is that Spain continues to offer one of Europe’s most accessible and stable property markets.
For buyers looking at areas like Costa Blanca, Murcia, and Costa del Sol, the process remains straightforward and well-supported by experienced estate agents and legal professionals.
Can Non-EU Citizens Still Buy Property in Spain in 2026? (Answer: Yes)
Both EU and non-EU nationals can freely purchase:
- Residential property
- Holiday homes
- Investment properties
- New builds
- Land and commercial property
Spain has no national restrictions based on citizenship, and the buying process for non-EU citizens in 2026 remains simple and secure.
You only need:
- A Spanish NIE number
- A Spanish bank account
- A solicitor to handle due diligence and contracts
This system has existed for decades and continues to be one of Spain’s biggest attractions for international investors.
Do Foreigners Need Residency to Buy a Property in Spain?
No, you do not need residency to buy a home in Spain.
Thousands of non-EU buyers purchase holiday homes or investment properties every year without becoming residents.
However, for those who do want residency, Spain offers attractive alternatives, including:
✔ Non-Lucrative Visa
Popular with retirees and those with passive income.
✔ Digital Nomad Visa
Ideal for remote workers and freelancers.
✔ Schengen Stays
Allows non-EU nationals to spend up to 90 days in every 180 without residency.
Spain’s residency pathways remain open and flexible, even after the Golden Visa reform in 2025.
Can Foreign Buyers Get a Mortgage in Spain?
Yes. Spanish banks continue to offer mortgages to non-residents.
Typical mortgage terms for foreign buyers:
- Up to 70% loan-to-value
- 30% deposit plus purchase costs
- Proof of income and tax returns required
Banks in regions such as Alicante, Murcia and Valencia actively work with UK, Dutch, Belgian, French, Nordic and American buyers.
Proposed Rules for Foreign Buyers in Spain – What’s Actually Happening?
During 2025, the Spanish government opened discussions around potential housing reforms. These ideas included:
- Adjusted property taxes
- Additional checks in high-demand coastal areas
- Possibility of different rules for non-EU buyers
However, it is essential to clarify:
- None of these proposals has become law.
- Regions that rely on foreign investment strongly oppose restrictive reforms.
- Most experts expect moderate, not dramatic, changes.
Spain has one of Europe’s most internationally active property markets, and policymakers are aware of how important foreign investors are to the economy.
What About the “100% Property Tax” Proposal?
The highly publicised “100% tax on non-EU property purchases” sparked media headlines, but in reality:
- It was an early-stage idea, not an approved law.
- Legal experts expect it to be heavily modified or dismissed.
- Regional governments (Costa Blanca, Andalusia, Murcia) oppose such extreme measures.
Spain’s property sector depends on foreign buyers, making extreme taxation economically unrealistic.
Why Spain Is Still One of the Best Places to Buy Property in 2026
Spain continues to rank among Europe’s most desirable countries for international property investment due to:
✔ Excellent climate
✔ Affordable property prices
✔ Strong rental demand
✔ High-quality healthcare
✔ Stable legal system
✔ Vibrant expat communities
✔ Established infrastructure and amenities
Regions such as Costa Blanca South, Orihuela Costa, Torrevieja, Quesada, and the Murcia Region remain extremely popular with non-EU buyers.
What to Expect for Foreign Property Buying in Spain in 2026
Experts predict:
- Spain will remain fully open to foreign buyers
- Policy changes, if introduced, will be moderate
- Any adjustments will include transition periods
- Property-friendly regions will continue supporting international investment
For non-EU buyers including UK, US, Canadian, Swiss, Norwegian, Middle Eastern and Asian investors, Spain remains a secure and attractive market.
How International Buyers Can Prepare in 2026
To make buying property in Spain even smoother:
- Get your NIE early
- Obtain mortgage pre-approval
- Work with a local Spanish solicitor
- Partner with a reputable estate agent specialising in foreign buyers
- Keep documentation (ID, income proof) ready
Starting early gives you clarity and protects your purchase if future changes occur.
Is 2026 a Good Time to Buy Property in Spain? Absolutely.
Despite political discussions, Spain continues to offer incredible long-term value for both EU and non-EU buyers. Property prices remain competitive, especially in the Costa Blanca and Murcia regions, and demand continues to grow.
This combination of lifestyle, affordability and security is why international buyers continue to choose Spain over Portugal, France or Italy.
Buy Property in Spain with Confidence in 2026 – 5 Real Estate Can Help
At 5 Real Estate, we specialise in helping EU and non-EU buyers purchase safely and confidently in:
- Costa Blanca South
- Murcia Region
We offer:
- Fixed-fee transparency
- Full guidance through the buying process
- Local market knowledge
- Support in English, Dutch, French, German and Spanish
Contact 5 Real Estate today to start your property search in Spain with expert support.
