Real Estate in Spain for Russians and Foreigners in 2025

Why Spain Remains Europe’s Top Country for Relocation and Investment for Russians and CIS Citizens in 2025

In recent months, more and more Russian foreigners and expats have been wondering: is it still possible today to buy real estate in Spain? How legal, safe, and profitable is it? Many myths, fears, and misleading information prompt people to look elsewhere—from the UAE to Turkey. But as Ruslan Gavrilov, CEO of GG Real Estate Barcelona and a real estate expert with 30 years of experience in Spain, asserts, such alternatives are compromises, not substitutes.

“Despite the array of options elsewhere, Spain has been and certainly remains one of the most attractive jurisdictions in the world. It’s a European country with a stable economy, a dependable political system, and transparent rules. That makes it the best choice for living and long-term investment.”

Why Spain — Not Asia, Eastern Europe, or the Middle East?

Yes, many countries allow foreigners to open bank accounts, buy property, and gain residency. But when stability, legal transparency, quality of life, and confidence in the future are paramount, Spain stands unmatched. Here, investments come with comfort, security, and all the perks of living in Europe.

Spain offers:

• EU law framework and strong judicial protection
• One of Europe’s most stable and professional real estate markets
• Fully transparent notarial transactions
• A robust banking system (Banco Santander is the EU's largest bank)
• Over 300 days of sunshine annually
• Modern healthcare, developed infrastructure, and quality public transport
• World-class education
• Rich cultural heritage — from Roman ruins to Gothic and Modernist architecture

Ruslan Gavrilov emphasizes:
 “An investor shouldn’t only think about price. They must think about the future. And Spain delivers predictability and value that only grows.”

Can Russians Buy Property in Spain in 2025?

Yes, foreigners, including Russians, can. Sanctions do not prohibit real estate transactions, and Spanish law imposes no ban. The catch: Spanish banks generally don’t open accounts for Russian citizens.

Solution: use a financial intermediary like Noralix.
GG Real Estate Barcelona offers full support:

• Verification of fund origin
• Secure transfer for the deal
• Official property registration

“Our mission is not just to sell a property, but to guide the client through the entire process safely and confidently,” says Gavrilov.

Step-by-Step Buying Process in 2025

1. Choose a property – residential or commercial, for living, rental, or investment

2. Obtain a NIE – foreigner identification number, required for the transaction

3. Legal due diligence – lawyer checks for debts, liens, legal issues, registration

4. Reservation contract – signed by buyer and seller, €3,000–€6,000 deposit

5. Secure financial transfer – via Noralix, bypassing banking restrictions

6. Notary signing – notarized sales agreement, both parties legally protected

7. Property registration – entered into Spain’s land registry (Registro de la Propiedad)

8. Post-purchase support – utilities, taxes, relocation, bank, rental, daily setup

Taxes & Fees

• Property Transfer Tax (ITP): 10–13%, varies by region and price
• Notary & Registry Fees: ~0.5–1.5% of property value
• Legal & Agency Fees: agreed individually

Timeline: ~4–8 weeks with professional assistance

Why You Need a Professional and a Lawyer

For foreigners, Spanish law is strict but clear. A mistake can cost tens of thousands of euros. Only a qualified real estate agent (like GG Real Estate Barcelona) and a lawyer can ensure 100% legal safety.

“Buying abroad isn’t like buying a cinema ticket. Mistakes cost tens or even hundreds of thousands. Only seasoned professionals can truly protect your interests,” Gavrilov notes.

Where to Buy?

Each Spanish region offers different climate, lifestyle, infrastructure, and investment potential:

• Barcelona – ideal for tourism, tech, education, healthcare; high rental demand
• Marbella – luxury properties: villas, golf, yachts; strong premium rental market
• Alicante – budget-friendly, warm, long-term rentals; active Russian community
• Valencia – modern, great transport and universities; rising prices
• Madrid – capital, business center; stable long-term and student rentals
• Mallorca, Ibiza, Tenerife – perfect for short-term vacation rentals; growing year-round demand
• Basque Country & Cantabria – family-friendly cities, rich culture, solid long-term investments

Outlook 2025: Barcelona remains a top pick thanks to its stability, coastal lifestyle, healthcare, education, and long-term property value.

Who Will Help You?

GG Real Estate Barcelona – 30+ years of experience. Founded by lawyer and real estate expert Ruslan Gavrilov.

We offer:

• Honest property selection
• Full legal support
• Secure fund transfers
• Total client protection
• Post-sale assistance (rentals, management, adaptation)

A New Investment Era in Spain

2025 begins a new chapter in Spanish real estate: less speculation, more transparency. Strategic investors are acting now.

“While others hesitate, the best investors are already signing,” Gavrilov says.

Contact GG Real Estate Barcelona for a personalized roadmap tailored to foreigners entering Spain’s real estate market.
It’s all real — and fully legal.