Moving to Spain: The Ultimate Expat Guide for 2025

Spain attracts thousands of high-net-worth expats every year with its golden visa programme, exceptional quality of life, and 300+ days of sunshine on the coast. Moving to Spain offers unparalleled opportunities for discerning buyers seeking European residency, a Mediterranean lifestyle, or a strategic property investment.

Why Spain? A Premier Destination for HNWI Expats

Spain combines world-class healthcare, excellent international schools, and a favourable tax environment for new residents. The country's golden visa — granting residency through a €500,000 property investment — has made it particularly attractive to non-EU investors seeking Schengen access.

Visa & Residency Options

Golden Visa (Investor Visa)

The Spain Golden Visa grants residency to non-EU nationals who invest €500,000 or more in Spanish real estate. Key benefits: clean criminal record and private health insurance required; family inclusion (spouse, children under 18, dependent parents); full work rights; only one visit per year required; path to permanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after 10.

Non-Lucrative Visa

For those not seeking employment in Spain, this visa requires proof of sufficient income (approximately €32,000/year) and offers residency without work rights. Ideal for retirees.

Digital Nomad Visa

Spain's digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live in Spain while employed by foreign companies, benefiting from a special flat tax rate of 24% on income up to €600,000.

Best Areas for Luxury Living

Marbella & the Costa del Sol

The Golden Mile, Sierra Blanca, and La Zagaleta offer villas from €2M to €30M+, with world-class golf courses, beach clubs, and an established international community of over 60 nationalities.

Madrid

Salamanca and Chamberí districts offer elegant apartments from €8,000 to €15,000 per m², with access to the capital's financial district and prestigious international schools.

Barcelona

Pedralbes and Sarrià-Sant Gervasi provide Mediterranean lifestyle with urban sophistication, with luxury apartments from €6,000 to €12,000 per m².

Ibiza

For island luxury, Ibiza offers seafront villas from €3M to €50M+ in areas like Roca Llisa, Cala Tarida, and Porroig.

Buying Property in Spain

The purchase process involves: obtaining an NIE (foreigner identification number); opening a Spanish bank account; signing a reservation contract; due diligence and title verification; signing before a Spanish notary; paying transfer tax (ITP: 6–10% for resale, or 10% VAT for new builds); registering the property at the Land Registry.

Tax Considerations

New residents should understand: non-resident income tax (IRNR) at 19–24% on Spanish-sourced income; wealth tax applicable in some regions (Andalusia and Madrid have effectively eliminated it); and the Beckham Law special tax regime taxing Spanish-source income at a flat 24% rate up to €600,000.

Healthcare & Education

Spain offers both public healthcare and excellent private healthcare. Leading international schools include Aloha College (Marbella), King's College (Madrid and Marbella), and the British School of Barcelona.

FAQ

Can I get Spanish citizenship through the golden visa? Yes, after 10 years of legal residency — or just 2 years for citizens of Ibero-American countries.

Do I need to live in Spain full-time to keep the golden visa? No. You only need to visit Spain once per year, making it ideal for second-home owners.

Is there a wealth tax in Spain? Yes, but several regions including Madrid and Andalusia have effectively eliminated it. Consult a tax advisor.

Ready to make Spain your home? Contact The Address for a confidential consultation, or browse our luxury properties in Spain.