Note

Balearic Islands restrictions on non-resident buyers

§ 1What we found

We found press reports from 2025 that a regional party in Mallorca proposed allowing councils to restrict the sale of homes to residents. Press also reports that in February 2026 the PP and Vox rejected a bill from the party MÉS per Mallorca to ban purchases by non-residents and companies, and that on 10 September 2026 the Balearic government said it would study measures in the EU’s draft housing act, including limits on second-home purchases by non-residents, without deciding anything. We could not read the parliamentary record or an official text, so treat these as press. This page belongs to the chapter in how rules and policy works.

§ 2What we did not find

We found no Balearic law or decree in force that limits purchases by non-residents, and no official page announcing one. That is a statement about what we read, not proof that nothing exists. The regional gazette and the parliament’s site are the places to check, and a lawyer registered in the islands can do it quickly.

§ 3What does apply

National rules apply in the islands as elsewhere, including the military authorisation needed in defence zones for non-EU buyers. The Balearic Islands also have their own rules on tourist lets and on land use, which the section on renting out and investing covers. These affect what you can do with a home more than whether you can buy it.

§ 4Why it matters

Purchases in the islands depend heavily on foreign and second-home demand, and housing costs are a political issue there. That is why proposals appear. Whether any becomes law, and in what form, is uncertain. A rule limited to new homes, to some towns or to particular uses would affect buyers very differently from a general ban.

§ 5Protecting a purchase

If you are buying in the islands, ask the lawyer to confirm that no restriction applies and to include a condition in the reservation or contract if a change is pending. See more on restrictions on non-residents for the general position on restrictions, and law changes in 2026 explained for the changes of 2026 that we could verify.

§ 6Staying informed

Check the sources named on this page again before you sign. We will record any change in the log below the page title.

§ 7Holiday lets

Tourist lets in the islands are regulated by regional and municipal rules, and many towns limit new licences. If your plan depends on letting, check the licence position of the exact property, and see the section on renting out and investing.

§ 8Other costs in the islands

Island homes often cost more to buy, insure and maintain, and building works can be restricted by planning rules. These practical costs matter more to most buyers than the proposals discussed here.

§ 9More on this topic

The Canary Islands explained explains the Canarian request to limit purchases and the 100 percent tax proposal explained explains the proposed tax on non-EU buyers and its status.

Tax changes for non-residents explained explains tax rules for non-residents and what is still a proposal.

General information only. This is not legal, tax or financial advice. Check your own situation with a qualified adviser.