Residency Options
EU/EEA Citizens
Freedom of movement allows EU citizens to live and work in Spain without a visa. Registration with local authorities (empadronamiento) and obtaining an NIE (tax identification number) are the main requirements.
Non-EU Citizens
Several visa options exist:
Golden Visa
Investment of €500,000+ in Spanish real estate grants residency for the investor and family. No minimum stay requirement, renewable every two years.
Non-Lucrative Visa
For those with sufficient passive income (approximately €28,000/year for the main applicant plus €7,000 per dependent). Does not permit employment in Spain.
Digital Nomad Visa
New visa category for remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies. Requires proof of employment and minimum income.
Entrepreneur Visa
For those establishing a business in Spain with a viable business plan.
Work Visa
Requires a job offer from a Spanish employer who can demonstrate no suitable EU candidates are available.
All non-EU visas require private health insurance and proof of financial means.
Tax Considerations
Tax Residency
You become Spanish tax resident if you spend more than 183 days per year in Spain, or if Spain is your center of economic interests.
Income Tax (IRPF)
Progressive rates from 19% to 47% on worldwide income for tax residents. Non-residents pay a flat 24% on Spanish-source income.
Beckham Law
High-earning employees relocating to Spain may qualify for a special tax regime with a flat 24% rate on Spanish income for six years. Restrictions apply.
Wealth Tax
Spain levies wealth tax on net assets above €700,000 (€500,000 in the Balearics). Rates range from 0.2% to 3.5%.
Inheritance Tax
Varies by autonomous community. The Balearics have relatively favorable rates for close relatives.
Exit Tax
Leaving Spain after being tax resident may trigger exit tax on unrealized capital gains if your net worth exceeds €4 million.
Professional Advice
Tax planning before relocation is essential. We recommend consulting with specialists in Spanish-international taxation.
Finding Property
Buying vs. Renting
Many relocators rent initially to explore different areas before committing to purchase. Long-term rentals (12+ months) offer better rates and stability.
Popular Areas for Expats
- Palma & Son Vida: Urban lifestyle with international schools, restaurants, and amenities - Southwest Coast (Bendinat, Portals): Upscale residential areas close to marinas and golf - Andratx & Port Andratx: Scenic harbor town with strong German community - Pollença & Alcúdia: Northern charm with historic towns and family beaches - Santanyí & Southeast: Bohemian atmosphere with boutique hotels and art galleries
Property Types
- Apartments: From €300,000 in Palma to €2M+ in prime locations - Townhouses: €500,000-€2M in desirable villages - Villas: €1M-€10M+ depending on location and specification - Fincas (Rural Estates): €1.5M-€20M+ for historic properties with land
Legal Process
Property purchase requires an NIE, Spanish bank account, and typically involves a notary, lawyer, and gestor (administrative agent). Budget 10-13% for taxes and fees.
Healthcare & Insurance
Public Healthcare
EU citizens can access Spanish public healthcare with an EHIC/GHIC card initially, then through social security contributions once employed or self-employed.
Private Healthcare
Most expats opt for private insurance, which provides faster access and English-speaking doctors. Major providers include Sanitas, Adeslas, and BUPA.
Hospitals
- Hospital Universitario Son Espases: The main public hospital with excellent facilities - Clínica Rotger: Private hospital in Palma with international patient services - Hospital Quirónsalud Palmaplanas: Private hospital with comprehensive services - USP Clínica Palmaplanas: Private clinic with specialist departments
Pharmacies
Well-stocked and can advise on minor ailments. Many medications available without prescription that would require one elsewhere.
Dental & Specialist Care
Excellent private dental and specialist services available, often at lower cost than Northern Europe.
Lifestyle & Community
International Community
Mallorca hosts a diverse expat community from across Europe and beyond. Germans, British, Scandinavians, and increasingly Americans form significant populations.
Networking
Business clubs, sports clubs, and social groups provide opportunities to connect: - Rotary and Lions clubs - International Women's Club - Various national associations (British, German, Scandinavian) - Yacht clubs and golf clubs
Language
While Spanish and Catalan are official languages, English and German are widely spoken in expat areas. Learning Spanish enhances integration and daily life.
Working Remotely
Excellent internet infrastructure, coworking spaces, and a growing digital nomad community make remote work viable. Time zone (CET) suits European and some US business hours.
Quality of Life
The combination of climate, safety, healthcare, education, and lifestyle consistently ranks Mallorca among Europe's best places to live. The pace of life is relaxed yet connected to major European cities.