Property News & Expat Guide for Spain

Spain’s Semana Santa (Holy Week) is not merely a holiday; it is a profound cultural immersion, an open-air museum of 16th-century artistry, and a visceral display of emotion. Far removed from the chocolate eggs and Easter bunnies prevalent in much of Northern Europe and the Americas, the Spanish observance is a deeply sensory spectacle. It is the scent of burning incense and orange blossoms in the spring air, the rhythmic pounding of a solitary drum, the collective gasp of a crowd as a massive golden float navigates a narrow medieval corner, and the heartbreaking wail of a solitary flamenco prayer piercing the night.

This year, Semana Santa runs from Sunday, March 29th (Palm Sunday) to Sunday, April 5th (Easter Sunday).

To help you understand the depth of this festival, here is your definitive guide to Spain’s Holy Week traditions, typical gastronomy, and the most pivotal cities to witness the processions in 2026.

The architecture of a procession: Traditions, brotherhoods, and vestments

To the uninitiated, the visual elements of a Spanish Holy Week procession can be surprising, mysterious, and occasionally overwhelming. Understanding the mechanics and the history behind the spectacle transforms the experience from a mere parade into a moving piece of living history.

Hermandades and cofradías

The backbone of Semana Santa is the brotherhood (hermandad or cofradía). Some of these organisations date back to the 13th and 14th centuries. Historically formed as mutual aid societies for specific trades (such as bakers, sailors, or silversmiths), they are deeply embedded community groups. Members dedicate the entire year to preparing for their specific procession, maintaining the floats, and organising charitable works.

Los pasos and tronos (The floats)

At the centre of every procession is the paso (in Andalusia) or trono (in Malaga). These are monumental, intricately carved wooden floats depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ or the sorrow of the Virgin Mary.

• The artistry: Many of the statues carried atop these floats were carved by masters of the Spanish Renaissance and Baroque periods, such as Juan de Mesa, Pedro de Mena, and Francisco Salzillo. They are priceless works of art, temporarily brought out of the basilicas to walk among the people.
• The ornamentation: The floats are heavily adorned with silver, gold leaf, and thousands of fresh flowers—typically red carnations for Christ (symbolising blood and passion) and white roses or orchids for the Virgin Mary (symbolising purity). Hundreds of thick wax candles illuminate the statues as night falls.

Costaleros and the capataz

A paso does not roll on wheels; it is carried by human devotion. The costaleros are the men (and increasingly women) who bear the immense weight of the floats, which can exceed a metric ton.

• They carry the structure on their shoulders or the backs of their necks, often hidden entirely beneath the drapery of the float.
• They wear a faja (a tight, wide belt) to protect their lower backs and a costal (a padded cloth headdress) to cushion the weight.
• Because they cannot see outside, they are guided by the capataz (the overseer), who uses a llamador—an ornate metal knocker on the front of the float—to signal when the costaleros should lift, step, or halt. Their synchronised, rhythmic swaying to the beat of a marching band is known as giving the float "life," making the statues appear to walk.

Nazarenos and penitentes

Marching ahead of the floats are the nazarenos (penitents), creating one of the most striking visual images of Semana Santa.

• The capirote: They wear long cloaks and the iconic capirote—a tall, conical hood that covers the face, leaving only two holes for the eyes.
• Historical context: It is vital to note that this vestment originated during the Spanish Inquisition as a symbol of anonymous penance. The cone shape symbolically points the wearer towards heaven to ask for forgiveness. It is a strictly religious Spanish tradition that predates and has absolutely no association with hate groups in the United States.
• Penitence: Some participants take their penance incredibly seriously, walking the multi-hour routes entirely barefoot, carrying heavy wooden crosses, or even dragging iron chains attached to their ankles in the silence of the night.

The soundscape: Saetas and marches

A procession is defined as much by its sound as its sight. Behind the floats march massive brass and drum bands (cornetas y tambores). They play specific, slow, and dramatic marches that dictate the pace of the costaleros. Occasionally, the entire procession will come to a dead halt. From a dark balcony above, a singer will break into a saeta—a spontaneous, heartbreaking, a cappella flamenco prayer sung directly to the statue. The crowd remains in absolute, pin-drop silence until the song concludes, erupting into applause as the float moves on.

Semana Santa gastronomy: What foods are eaten during Holy Week in Spain?

Because Catholic fasting traditions restrict meat during Lent, Spanish Holy Week cuisine pivots to rich vegetarian dishes, hearty seafood, and energy-dense sweets designed to sustain the penitents.

Traditional Easter food in Spain

• Potaje de vigilia: The ultimate Good Friday "vigil stew," made with slow-cooked chickpeas, fresh spinach, and chunks of salt cod.
• Bacalao (Salt cod): The staple protein of the season, widely enjoyed as crispy croquettes (croquetas de bacalao) in local tapas bars or stewed in rich tomato sauces.
• Tortilla de patatas: In central Castile and León, families gather outdoors on Jueves de Tortilla (Tortilla Thursday) to share classic Spanish omelettes before Good Friday's solemnity sets in.
• Empanada gallega: Galicia's portable double-crusted pies, heavily favoured during Lent when stuffed with a rich sofrito and local tuna or codfish.
• Morteruelo: A rare meaty exception found in Cuenca. Eaten as an aperitif, this rich, pâté-like stew is made from local game meats, breadcrumbs, and regional spices.

Spanish Holy Week sweets

• Torrijas: Spain's absolute favourite Easter sweet. Thick slices of day-old bread are soaked in lemon-infused milk or sweet wine, fried in virgin olive oil, and coated in cinnamon sugar or local honey.
• Rosquillas: Popular in Andalusia, these crispy, ring-shaped fried dumplings are dusted in sugar and dipped in honey, providing a massive sugar rush for procession marchers.
• Mazapán: In Toledo, marzipan is a spring staple. Intricate animal and religious figures are expertly crafted from equal parts ground almonds and sugar.
• Mona de Pascua: The star of Easter Sunday in Catalonia and the Valencian coast. Traditionally, a sweet brioche cake topped with hard-boiled eggs, modern versions feature elaborate chocolate sculptures gifted by godparents.
• Fartons and horchata: In Valencia and Elche, warm procession-watchers cool down by dunking sweet, spongy fartons (breadsticks) into ice-cold horchata (a milky beverage made from crushed tiger nuts).

Key dates for Semana Santa in Spain (2026)

This year, Semana Santa runs from Sunday, March 29th (Palm Sunday) to Sunday, April 5th (Easter Sunday)...

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Moving to Spain is an aspiration for many, but it requires careful planning across legal, financial, and practical areas. This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about moving to Spain, helping you understand visas, residency, housing, taxes, healthcare, and everyday life before you relocate.

Whether you are planning a short stay, a long-term move, or a permanent relocation, the questions below reflect what prospective residents most often need to know at the start of their journey.

Legal and residency in Spain

Understanding visa and residency requirements is one of the most important steps when planning a move to Spain. Your nationality, intended length of stay, and whether you plan to work will determine which visa or permit you need.

How long can you stay in Spain without a visa or residency?

If you are from a Schengen visa-exempt country, you can stay in Spain for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without applying for a visa. This applies to tourism, short stays, and non-resident visits.

If you are from a country that requires a visa to enter Spain, you must apply for the appropriate visa before travelling, usually at a Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country.

What types of visas are available for moving to Spain?

Spain offers several visa options depending on your situation, including:

• Non-Lucrative Visa – for individuals who will not work in Spain and can demonstrate sufficient financial means
• Work Visa – for those with a confirmed job offer in Spain
• Student Visa – for people enrolled in recognised educational institutions
• Family Reunification Visa – for immediate family members of legal residents

The Golden Visa, which granted residency through property investment, ended in April 2025 and is no longer available.

For a step-by-step overview of requirements, documents, and timelines, see our guide to applying for a visa in Spain.

What is the difference between a visa and a residency permit in Spain?

A visa allows you to enter Spain and stay for a limited period, while a residency permit allows you to live in Spain long term and access additional rights, such as public healthcare and administrative services.

Understanding this distinction is essential when planning a longer stay or permanent relocation.

What types of residency permits exist in Spain?

Spain offers two main residency categories:

• Temporary residency – for stays longer than 90 days and up to five years, usually linked to work, study, or family reunification
• Permanent residency – available after five years of continuous legal residence, with similar rights to Spanish citizens

Can you get Spanish residency by buying a property?

No. Buying property in Spain does not automatically grant residency.

While property ownership can support a visa application (for example, as proof of accommodation), you must still qualify under an appropriate visa route, such as the non-lucrative visa or work visa.

How do you obtain a NIE (Foreigner Identification Number)?

You can apply for a NIE either:

• At a Spanish consulate before moving, or
• At a police station or immigration office in Spain

You will need identification, a completed application form, and a valid reason for requesting the NIE (such as buying property, opening a bank account, or applying for residency).

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Spacious villas with private gardens are among the most sought-after property types in Murcia, offering generous outdoor space and comfortable living at prices that remain competitive compared to other popular regions on the Spanish coast. They appeal to buyers who want more space and privacy than an apartment or townhouse can offer, without the premium associated with other coastal markets.

Why buyers choose villas with gardens in Murcia

In Murcia’s climate, a private garden is more than a lifestyle extra — it is usable outdoor space for most of the year. Combined with generous plot sizes and accessible purchase prices, villas in Murcia offer a level of comfort that is well matched to buyers at many different stages of life.

Key benefits include:

• Private outdoor space for relaxing, dining, and entertaining
• Larger plot sizes, often with space for a pool and landscaped garden
• More internal living space than apartments or townhouses
• Purchase prices that remain competitive compared to other Spanish coastal regions
• Strong appeal for long-term rentals and permanent living

These properties are particularly popular with retirees, families, and international buyers relocating to Spain, thanks to Murcia’s year-round sunshine, well-established residential areas, and strong value for money.

Where to find villas with gardens in Murcia

Villas with private gardens are found across the Murcia region, from established coastal developments around the Mar Menor to quieter inland areas with generous plots and rural views. Buyers typically focus on areas that match their lifestyle priorities, whether that is proximity to the coast, access to amenities, or maximum space for the budget.

The Mar Menor coast — including towns such as Los Alcázares and San Javier — is the most popular area with international buyers, offering well-developed neighbourhoods and easy access to the beach. Further south, Cartagena and the surrounding municipalities offer larger plots at lower prices, while inland areas such as Lorca and Totana suit buyers who prioritise space and value above coastal proximity.

Villa vs townhouse vs apartment in Murcia

For buyers still deciding which property type best suits their needs, it often comes down to how much space, privacy, and outdoor living they want:

• Apartments suit buyers prioritising lower costs and minimal upkeep, but typically offer limited or no private outdoor space
• Townhouses offer a useful middle ground, with some private garden space and more room than apartments, at a lower cost than a detached villa
• Villas with private gardens provide the most space, the highest level of privacy, and layouts suited to long-term living

For many buyers in Murcia, a spacious villa with a private garden offers the most practical and rewarding balance for long-term use.

Frequently asked questions

Are villas in Murcia good value compared to other parts of Spain?

Murcia consistently offers lower average property prices per square metre than comparable coastal regions. A three-bedroom villa with a private garden near the Mar Menor is typically available from around €200,000 to €350,000. Inland, equivalent properties can be found from €130,000 to €200,000 — considerably less than comparable specifications on the Costa del Sol or in the Balearic Islands.

Do villas in Murcia have community fees?

Many villas in Murcia form part of residential urbanisations and may have monthly community fees covering shared facilities such as pools, gardens, or security. Fees vary depending on the services provided. Detached villas on independent plots generally do not have community fees, though all owners in Spain are subject to local property taxes, including the Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles (IBI).

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Spain is the most popular destination for French property buyers abroad, and it is easy to understand why. The Costa del Sol, the Costa Blanca, Barcelona and the Balearic Islands attract thousands of French buyers every year, drawn by the climate, lifestyle, and relative proximity to France. What is less obvious is that the buying process in Spain works quite differently from what you are used to in France. Knowing these differences in advance helps you navigate the process confidently and understand how legal protections work in Spain.

Before you begin, you will need a NIE number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) — the Spanish tax identification number required of all foreign buyers. You should apply for this early in the process, as it is needed before you can sign any contract or complete a purchase. As a French citizen and EU national, you have exactly the same property rights as Spanish nationals.

1. The role of the notary

In France, the notary is involved from the compromis de vente onwards: gathering documents, holding the deposit in escrow, advising both parties, and managing all payments through to completion. In Spain, the notary's role is far more limited. They are present solely at the signing of the final deed — the escritura pública — where they verify the identity of both parties, confirm the legal standing of the property, and authorise the public deed, which is then registered in the Registro de la Propiedad (Land Registry) by the gestoría or buyer's representative. The Spanish notary does not advise either party, does not hold deposits, and does not manage payments. Once the deed is registered, Spain’s Land Registry system guarantees your legal ownership — the protections are robust, but they rely on your lawyer doing the groundwork correctly before you reach that stage.

This is why engaging an independent abogado (lawyer) is so important in Spain. They carry out the due diligence, review all contracts, and protect your interests — the role the French notary fills automatically. Lawyer fees are typically around 1% plus VAT, and are a worthwhile addition to your budget.

Good to know: Notary fees in Spain are lower than in France — typically 0.5% to 1% of the purchase price — as they cover the deed only, not the broader advisory and management role you are accustomed to in France.

2. The pre-sale contract and deposit

Once an offer is accepted in France, you sign a compromis de vente with the notary. This gives you a 10-day cooling-off period, an automatic suspensive clause if your mortgage is declined, and your deposit (5% to 10%) is held securely in escrow.

In Spain, the equivalent is the contrato de arras — a private contract between buyer and seller, typically prepared by the estate agent or your lawyer. When you sign it, you pay a 10% deposit directly. Three important differences from the French system:

• There is no cooling-off period once you have signed
• If you withdraw, you lose your deposit; if the seller withdraws, they repay you double
• A suspensive clause for mortgage approval is not automatic — request it explicitly from your lawyer before signing

Before the contrato de arras, many agents will ask you to sign a reserva — a smaller holding deposit (typically €3,000 to €6,000) to take the property off the market while legal checks are carried out. Always have your lawyer review this before signing or paying anything.

Good to know: Unlike in France, the deposit in Spain is paid directly to the seller's agent or seller — not held by a neutral third party. Your lawyer should verify the terms before you commit.

3. Purchase costs and transfer taxes

Purchase costs in Spain are higher than in France. Total acquisition costs for an existing property are around 7% to 8% of the purchase price. In Spain, they typically range from 10% to 12%, driven mainly by the regional transfer tax (ITP — Impuesto sobre Transmisiones Patrimoniales), which varies by autonomous community. For a new-build, you pay 10% VAT (IVA) plus stamp duty instead of ITP.

Regional ITP rates for the most popular French buyer destinations:

• Andalucía (Costa del Sol, Seville): 7%
• Murcia (Costa Cálida): 8%
• Comunidad Valenciana (Costa Blanca, Valencia): 10%
• Catalonia (Barcelona, Costa Brava): 10%
• Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza): 8% to 11%

A practical example — €300,000 resale property in Andalucía:

ITP at 7%: €21,000 | Notary & registry: ~€2,100 | Lawyer: ~€3,630 | Gestoría: ~€400

Total: approximately €27,000 — around 9% of the purchase price.

Andalucía has one of the lowest ITP rates in Spain. In regions with 10% ITP, total costs on the same property would be closer to 11% to 12%.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com

For years, the Spanish property market has operated under a unique set of emergency measures. Introduced to shield vulnerable tenants during the height of the pandemic, these strict anti-eviction rules have been a cornerstone of housing policy—and a point of intense debate for property owners—since 2020.

However, the landscape is about to shift. The Spanish government has signalled that these temporary "anti-eviction" shields are finally coming to an end, marking a significant turning point for the country’s rental sector.

A Return to "Normal" for Landlords

For many foreign investors and second-home owners in Spain, the "anti-eviction" decree has been a source of anxiety. The legislation made it notoriously difficult to evict tenants who could prove "social vulnerability," even in cases of non-payment. In some instances, these protections were also seen as a loophole that slowed the removal of illegal squatters (okupas).

The expiration of these measures means that the judicial process for reclaiming property due to non-payment is expected to regain its pre-pandemic momentum. For landlords who have been stuck in legal limbo with non-paying tenants, this provides a clearer light at the end of the tunnel.

The Impact on Vulnerable Tenants

While the news is welcomed by property owners, social housing advocates warn of a potential "eviction wave." The protections were designed to prevent homelessness during a global crisis, and their removal puts thousands of families at risk.

To mitigate this, the government is expected to transition from blanket bans on evictions to more targeted social programs. This includes:

• Increased Social Housing Subsidies: Channelling funds into rent assistance rather than legal freezes.

• Intervention Protocols: Requiring regional authorities to provide alternative housing solutions before an eviction is carried out.

What This Means for Foreign Buyers and Renters

If you are looking to buy or rent in Spain, this policy shift will likely impact the market in several ways:

1. Increased Rental Supply: Many owners have kept properties off the long-term rental market, fearing they wouldn't be able to remove problematic tenants. A more predictable legal framework may encourage these owners to list their properties again.

2. Investment Security: For those considering a "buy-to-let" investment, the end of these emergency measures reduces the perceived risk of long-term "non-paying" occupancy, potentially making Spanish real estate more attractive to international capital.

3. Strict Vetting Remains Key: Despite the change in law, the eviction process in Spain remains slower than in the UK or the US. Professional tenant vetting and "impago" (non-payment) insurance remain essential for any landlord.

Looking Ahead

The sunset of these protections is a clear move by Madrid to re-stabilise the rental market and restore confidence among property owners. However, the underlying "Housing Law" (Ley de Vivienda) passed in 2023 still contains various rent controls and tenant rights that buyers should be aware of.

As we move into this new phase, the Spanish property market continues to offer great value, but navigating the legalities requires staying informed. Whether you are a landlord waiting to reclaim a property or a prospective buyer looking for a holiday home, the "post-protection" era marks a more standardized chapter for Spanish real estate.

Are you an owner affected by these changes, or are you looking to invest in Spain? Keep an eye on Eye on Spain for the latest updates on housing laws and market trends.

Stay informed, stay legal, and enjoy Spain without worrying. As we move through 2026, the rules for non-residents in Spain are being monitored with unprecedented precision. With the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) now fully operational at Spanish borders, the days of "flying under the radar" with passport stamps are over.

If you are a Spanish property owner, a digital nomad, or a frequent visitor from a non-EU country (like the UK, USA, or Canada), understanding the difference between the "90/180 rule" and the "183-day rule" is critical to avoiding fines, tax bills, or entry bans.

Here is everything you need to know about staying in Spain without residency in 2026, whether it be a short stay or a long stay. This is what you need to know:

What is the 90/180 rule in Spain?

The 90–day rule in Spain is the maximum time non-EU/EEA visitors can stay without a visa: You can stay in Spain for a maximum of 90 days within any rolling 180-day period. The 90 days apply to the entire Schengen Area, not per country.

It is vital to understand that this is a rolling window, not a calendar year. You cannot simply reset your days on January 1st. To check if you are legal to enter or stay today, you must count back 180 days. If you have already spent 90 days in the Schengen Area (Spain plus countries like France, Portugal, Italy, etc.) during that window, you must leave, even if you own a property.

Who needs to comply with the 90/180-day rule in Spain?

This rule applies to citizens of "third countries" (non-EU/EEA).

EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens are not subject to the 90/180-day rule. They do not need a visa to enter Spain, and their passports are not stamped.

However, "free movement" has its own administrative milestones:

• The 90-day "Free stay": EU citizens can stay in Spain for up to 90 days with just their national ID or passport. During this time, they have no obligation to register with the authorities.
• The requirement to register (NIE): If an EU citizen intends to stay in Spain for longer than 90 days, they are legally required to register at the Central Register of Foreigners. Upon registration, they receive a "Green Certificate" (often called the Certificado de Registro de la Unión Europea). To find out more and see the requirements, read our article: How to get a NIE Number in Spain.

How can I avoid violating the 90-day rule in Spain?

In 2026, avoiding a violation requires careful calculation because the new EES biometric border scanners calculate your stay to the exact second.

• Use a Calculator App: Do not rely on mental math. Use a "Schengen Calculator" app to track your days.
• Plan ahead: Remember that the 90-day limit applies to the entire Schengen Zone, not just Spain. A weekend in Paris counts toward your allowance for your Spanish villa.
• Leave a buffer: Never plan to leave on day 90. Strikes, flight cancellations, or illness could force you to overstay, and the automated border gates are not lenient.

Note: With the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) set to launch later this year, ensure you have your travel authorisation sorted before booking flights for late 2026.

What happens if you stay in Spain for more than 90 days?

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Almería is not Spain’s loudest province — and that is exactly the point.

Located in the far east of Andalucía, it combines long Mediterranean beaches, desert landscapes, working Spanish cities and wide rural valleys. It is sunnier, drier and less densely developed than many better-known coastal regions. Tourism exists, but it does not define daily life.

People rarely move to Almería by accident. They choose it deliberately — for climate, space and long-term livability rather than seasonal buzz. If you are still weighing up regions, our guides on moving to Spain explain how provinces differ in climate, infrastructure and lifestyle expectations.

If you are considering relocating from anywhere in the world, this guide explains what life in Almería is really like: how it feels, how it functions, and who it suits best.

Where is Almería and what makes it different?

Almería sits between Granada and Murcia on Spain’s south-eastern Mediterranean coast. It is one of Andalucía’s eight provinces, with a population of just over 700,000.

What sets it apart is contrast:

• The protected volcanic coastline of Cabo de Gata
• Europe’s only true desert, Tabernas
• Productive agricultural plains around El Ejido
• A compact, walkable capital city
• Mountain villages on the edge of the Alpujarra

Large stretches of coastline remain low-density or environmentally protected. Compared with the Costa del Sol or parts of the Costa Blanca, development is lighter and the pace slower.

Almería feels functional and lived in rather than curated for tourism.

Is Almería a good place to live?

For the right person, absolutely.

Almería suits people who prioritise:

• Sunshine and dry air
• Lower property prices
• Space and natural landscapes
• Stability over seasonality
• A predominantly Spanish-speaking environment

It tends to attract retirees, remote workers, independent professionals and buyers planning to live year-round. If you are relocating permanently rather than buying a holiday home, it is worth reviewing the practical steps involved in becoming a resident in Spain, including healthcare access and registration requirements.

It may feel challenging if you rely on:

• A wide local job market
• Extensive public transport
• Large English-speaking networks
• Constant nightlife or large-scale entertainment

Spanish is the language of daily life. Integration usually requires initiative rather than ready-made expat structures. For many, that is part of the appeal.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com

A 'green certificate' is the colloquial (commonly-used) term for a certain type of residence document. It is only held by citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland. Family members, spouses, or legally-registered cohabiting partners of these citizens also hold a 'green certificate' as proof of residence.

The official name for this document is a European Union Residents' Certificate of Registration (Certificado de Registro de Residentes de la Unión Europea). It is sometimes abbreviated to 'CUE'.

For ease of reading, the citizens described above will henceforth be described as 'Europeans'. However, please note that this definition does not cover citizens of countries in Europe that are not part of the EU or EEA, except Switzerland.

Spanish residency: What is a 'green certificate' for?

A green residency certificate, or CUE, is for Europeans moving to Spain. Europeans can stay in Spain for up to three months without becoming resident. If you plan to stay longer, or permanently, you must register with the foreigners' office (Oficina de Extranjería). When doing so, you will be given a CUE, or 'green certificate'. This is either A4-sized or credit-card sized. It is paper, not plastic, and is pale green in colour.

Can a green residency certificate be used as ID in Spain?

Your CUE or 'green certificate' is not valid as identification (ID), as it does not have a photograph on it. It is merely evidence that you are a resident. You will, however, need to show it for numerous official transactions in Spain. If so, you will usually need to show your passport or national ID card from your country of origin at the same time.

Do you need a NIE to get a green residence certificate in Spain?

You do not need to obtain a NIE (Foreigners' National Identity Number) first. The process of getting your 'green certificate' includes assigning you a NIE number. However, you may already have a NIE if you applied for this earlier for other reasons. This might be because you bought a holiday home in Spain, or opened a bank account, but did not plan to live there. If this is the case, you will not get a different NIE number, as these are the same for life.

Europeans eligible for legal residence in Spain

To be legally resident in Spain, Europeans must fulfil one or more of the following criteria:

Why buy property in Murcia? In 2026, the Murcia region will have shed its reputation as a mere budget alternative to become a premier investment destination. While property prices in major Spanish hubs have skyrocketed, Murcia remains roughly 35% more affordable than the national average despite its own resilient economic growth. This unique value proposition has turned the "Costa Cálida" into a hotspot for those seeking high-quality Mediterranean living without the inflated price tags of neighbouring provinces.

The region’s ascent is fueled by a connectivity revolution and a highly favourable fiscal landscape. With the AVE high-speed rail linking Murcia to Madrid in under three hours and expanded international routes at Corvera Airport, the area is more accessible than ever. Furthermore, Murcia holds a distinct competitive edge through its tax incentives; with a Property Transfer Tax (ITP) of 7.75%, buyers can save thousands of euros compared to the 10% rates found in Alicante or Catalonia.

Where do most expats live in Murcia?

The Mar Menor is the defining geographical feature of the region—a saltwater lagoon separated from the Mediterranean by the La Manga strip. For the modern buyer, the towns ringing this lagoon offer a variety of lifestyles, from the bustling tourist strip to the quiet Spanish fishing village.

Los Alcázares: The expat capital

If there is a beating heart of the international community in Murcia, it is Los Alcázares. This town perfectly encapsulates the appeal of the Costa Cálida: accessible, affordable, and alive year-round. While some coastal towns become ghost towns in winter, Los Alcázares retains a vibrant pulse, driven by a resident population that blends locals with Northern European expats.

If you’re planning to retire in Spain, one of the first questions you’ll face is whether you need a visa — and if so, which one. The answer depends mainly on your nationality.

• EU citizens do not need a visa to retire in Spain.
• Non-EU citizens, however, must apply for a residence visa as part of Spain’s wider visa system for moving to Spain.

For many non-EU retirees in 2026, the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) is the main and most appropriate option. It allows you to live in Spain long-term without working, provided you can support yourself financially.

This guide explains why the Non-Lucrative Visa is generally the retirement visa for Spain, who it’s for, what it implies in practice, and what to expect once you move.

Visa rules and residence requirements in Spain are set at a national level and applied through Spanish consulates abroad. While this guide reflects how the Non-Lucrative Visa is commonly used by retirees, official requirements and interpretation can vary by consulate and may change over time. For this reason, applicants are advised to verify current conditions through Spain’s official immigration authorities, including the Ministerio de Inclusión, Seguridad Social y Migraciones.

Is the Non-Lucrative Visa right for retirees?

The Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for non-EU citizens who want to live in Spain without carrying out any work or professional activity.

It is generally suitable if you:

• Are retired or financially independent
• Do not plan to work in Spain
• Intend to live in Spain for most of the year
• Can meet the financial and healthcare requirements

It may not be suitable if you plan to work, stay only short-term, or do not meet the minimum income thresholds.

For retirees who are also considering where to settle, the visa supports long-term residence across the country, from coastal areas to inland cities, including many of the most popular places to retire in Spain.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com