Spain’s housing debate has taken another turn after Congress backed a proposal calling for faster evictions of illegally occupied properties.
The news has attracted attention from homeowners and international property buyers, including those who own or are planning to purchase property on the Costa Blanca. However, the proposal does not mean that Spain has already introduced a law guaranteeing automatic eviction within 24 hours.
What Happened in Parliament?
On 10 September 2026, Spain’s Congress approved a motion presented by the People’s Party (PP), calling on the government to introduce measures that would allow squatters to be removed within a maximum period of 24 to 48 hours.
The proposal also includes changes to housing legislation, tax measures and planning procedures.
The PSOE abstained on the eviction-related proposals, while Sumar voted against them. The motion is not legally binding and does not immediately change Spain’s existing eviction laws.
What Would the Proposed Changes Mean?
The PP wants to establish a faster legal process for dealing with properties occupied without the owner’s permission.
If future legislation is approved, it could potentially reduce the time some property owners spend dealing with illegal occupation. However, the final rules would need to establish the conditions, evidence requirements and legal safeguards for such a process.
For now, the 24-hour eviction proposal remains a political initiative, not an enforceable new legal right.
Why Does This Matter on the Costa Blanca?
The Costa Blanca is home to thousands of international property owners, including people who use their apartments as holiday homes or rental investments.
Illegal occupation can create difficulties for owners, potentially affecting access to their property, rental income and legal expenses. The specific risks and legal procedures depend on the circumstances of each case.
A faster eviction process could be relevant to property owners if it eventually becomes law. Nevertheless, buyers should not assume that the recent parliamentary vote has already changed their legal protections.
Professional legal advice and appropriate property management remain important when purchasing or owning a home in Spain.
What Happens Next?
The Spanish government would need to pursue the necessary legislative changes before the proposed eviction timeframe could become part of the law.
The motion is therefore a development worth following, but it should not be confused with an immediate change in Spain’s property legislation.
For Costa Blanca homeowners and potential buyers, the key takeaway is simple: Spain’s parliament has called for faster evictions, but the 24-hour rule is not yet in force.
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