Rethinking the Dream: How Traditional Expat Destinations Like Spain Are Changing

For decades, Spain has been a top choice for British expats seeking sun, sea, and a slower pace of life. But in 2025, the landscape is shifting—and fast. Rising tensions around overtourism, housing shortages, and new government policies are reshaping what it means to relocate to Spain, especially for non-EU citizens.

If you’ve been considering a move abroad or advising clients who are, it’s time to take a closer look at what’s really happening—and what it means for long-term planning.

🇪🇸 Spain’s Changing Attitude Toward Foreign Residents

Spain hasn’t closed its doors to expats, but it’s certainly redefining the terms of entry. Here’s what’s changed:

🔒 The End of the Golden Visa

Spain has officially scrapped its golden visa programme, which previously allowed non-EU citizens to gain residency by investing €500,000+ in property. This move directly impacts British nationals who relied on property investment as a gateway to living in Spain.

💸 Proposed 100% Tax on Foreign Buyers

The government is considering a 100% tax on property purchases by non-EU citizens—a dramatic shift aimed at curbing speculative buying and protecting local housing supply. If passed, this would make relocating or investing in Spanish property significantly more expensive.

🏘️ Crackdown on Short-Term Rentals

Cities like Malaga and Barcelona are banning new short-term holiday lets for several years. Over 65,000 Airbnb listings have already been removed across Spain. Expats who planned to rent out properties or rely on flexible accommodation options are facing tighter restrictions and fewer choices.

🧭 What This Means for Expats

These changes reflect a broader cultural and political shift: Spain is prioritising sustainability, housing equity, and local wellbeing over unchecked tourism and foreign investment. For expats, this means:

• Fewer pathways to residency through property

• Higher costs and more regulation around buying and renting

• A need for deeper integration and long-term commitment to local communities

The tone has changed—from “come and live the dream” to “come, but contribute meaningfully.”

🌍 Rethinking the Expat Equation

Traditional expat hotspots like Spain, Portugal, and parts of France are tightening their policies. Meanwhile, other destinations—like Croatia, Greece, and certain regions in Eastern Europe—are emerging as more flexible, affordable, and welcoming alternatives.

But wherever you go, the key is this: don’t just chase the lifestyle—build the foundation.

💬 Final Thoughts

At Swan River Financial Coaching, I’ve seen firsthand how lack of access to the right information—and the ability to interpret it—can hold people back. When relocation dreams collide with red tape, rising costs, and cultural tension, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and stuck.

My mission is to help you cut through the noise, clarify your goals, and make decisions that are kind to your future self. Whether you’re planning a move abroad or simply rethinking your financial path, now is the time to get your house in order.

📩 Ready to explore your options with clarity and confidence? Let’s talk.