How to Get Spanish Residency – Guide for Property Buyers

If you’re planning to move to Spain permanently or spend long periods each year in your property, you’ll need to consider your residency status. Whether you’re an EU national or a non-EU citizen (including British citizens post-Brexit), obtaining residency is essential for legal living, access to healthcare, and other rights.

In this post, we break down what residency in Spain means, the key routes to apply, and how a conveyancing lawyer can simplify the process—especially if you’ve granted them power of attorney.

🇪🇸 What Does “Residency” in Spain Mean?

Being a resident of Spain means you legally live in the country for more than 183 days a year. This status affects your tax obligations, access to public services, and healthcare rights. Importantly, it also determines whether you’re legally allowed to stay in Spain beyond the standard tourist allowance (90 days in 180 for non-EU nationals).

👤 Types of Residency in Spain

There are several routes depending on your nationality and personal situation:

1. Residency for EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

If you’re from an EU country, residency is relatively straightforward. You’ll need to:

  • Apply at your local Oficina de Extranjería (Foreigner’s Office) or National Police Station
  • Show proof of income, health insurance, and housing
  • Register on the padrón
  • You’ll receive a Certificado de Registro de Ciudadano de la Unión, which includes your NIE

2. Residency for Non-EU Citizens (Including British Nationals Post-Brexit)

Since Brexit, British nationals must apply under one of the non-EU residency schemes:

  • Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): Popular for retirees or remote workers not seeking employment in Spain. Requires proof of sufficient funds and private health insurance.
  • Digital Nomad Visa: A newer option for remote workers employed outside of Spain.
  • Work or Family-Based Residency: Available through a job offer or family reunification.

📝 General Requirements for Residency

  • Valid passport
  • NIE number
  • Proof of accommodation (rental contract or property deeds)
  • Sufficient financial means
  • Private or public health insurance
  • Clean criminal record (in some cases)
  • Completed application forms depending on the type of visa or residency route

✅ The Easiest Way: Use a Lawyer with Power of Attorney

Applying for residency in Spain involves multiple steps and departments. If you’re unfamiliar with the language or legal system, the process can quickly become overwhelming.

That’s why many buyers and new residents choose to grant power of attorney to a trusted legal representative or conveyancing lawyer. With this authority, your lawyer can:

  • Handle all paperwork
  • Book and attend appointments
  • Submit applications on your behalf
  • Collect residency cards and certificates
  • Ensure your application meets the legal standards for approval

This is especially helpful if you’re still abroad, planning your move, or already juggling property purchases and relocation tasks.

📍 Applying in Almería or Andalucía?

Local procedures can vary slightly from one province or town to another. For example, in Almería, some offices require advance appointments booked via the Cita Previa system, and it’s important to ensure all documents are correctly translated and apostilled if needed.

Working with a local legal team ensures your residency application is managed according to the latest regional requirements—saving you time and avoiding unnecessary delays.

💬 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re retiring to Spain, working remotely, or simply making a lifestyle move, obtaining Spanish residency is a crucial step in making your dream a legal reality. At Medimar Homes, we work closely with trusted lawyers and relocation experts who can guide you through the entire process—from buying your property to settling in as a legal resident.

Descargo de responsabilidad: The information provided by Medimar Homes on our website, www.medimarhomes.com, is intended for general informational purposes only. All content is shared in good faith and based on sources believed to be accurate at the time of publication. While we make every effort to ensure the information on our website is up to date and correct, Medimar Homes does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness and reserves the right to modify or update content without prior notice.

Medimar Homes makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information featured on this website or any associated mobile applications, including links to third-party websites.

Users should not rely solely on the information provided here and are strongly advised to seek independent legal advice or verification through a qualified representative before taking any action based on the website’s content.

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What Is a Padrón in Spain & How to Register in Almería

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