Spain remains a popular destination for both tourists and foreign property buyers, including a growing number of Polish citizens. In 2024, Poles purchased over 4,200 residential properties in Spain, with a significant share located on the Costa del Sol, one of the most sought-after regions. The appeal of owning property abroad continues to grow, driven by various economic and lifestyle factors. Stable economic conditions, comparatively affordable property prices, convenient flight connections, and favorable weather are among the key reasons many Poles choose to invest in Spanish real estate. For some, the ability to spend holidays in their own property has become a practical alternative to rising rental and travel costs. Costa del Sol Remains a Focal Point Among Spain’s many regions, the Costa del Sol continues to attract the highest interest. Its climate, offering an estimated 320 days of sunshine annually, is a strong draw for buyers from colder climates. Additionally, the region is perceived as geographically safer and more politically stable compared to Eastern Europe. Recent Legal Changes Affecting Property Owners In recent months, new legislation has been introduced in Spain that impacts property ownership and rental regulations: • A new law aims to speed up proceedings against illegal occupancy. Under the revised system, courts are now required to respond within 15 days of a formal complaint, enabling quicker resolution for property owners. • Property owners wishing to rent their apartments to tourists for less than two months must now secure approval from 60% of their homeowners’ association. This involves submitting a formal request during an association meeting and ensuring no objections are raised within 20 days of distributing the meeting minutes. Owners who had valid tourist licenses prior to April 3, 2025, are exempt from this requirement. • As of July 1, 2025, owners of short-term rental properties who already hold a valid tourist license (VFT) and rent via platforms that manage payments, such as Airbnb or Booking.com, are required to register their properties through a dedicated online portal. The system generates a unique registration number that must be included in listings on such platforms. These changes are part of Spain’s efforts to align with EU regulations aimed at improving transparency in the short-term rental market and reducing fraud risks. While the new obligations may require additional administrative steps, they do not prohibit short-term rentals. Property owners are advised to consult legal professionals to ensure compliance with both local and EU-wide regulations. Despite the regulatory updates, the Spanish real estate market—especially in regions like the Costa del Sol—remains open and attractive to foreign buyers, including a steadily growing number from Poland.