The ‘Okupas’ movement

In Spain, squatting has been organised since the mid-1980s as a social movement known as ‘Okupas’ (from ‘ocupación’). It is strongest in urban areas, especially in Barcelona.

The movement emerged in response to housing shortages, rising rents, and a large number of empty properties owned by banks and real estate companies. Many okupas view their actions as political, opposing speculative housing and what they see as an unequal property system.

Alongside this ideological movement, other forms of squatting persist. Some people occupy homes out of economic necessity, while others exploit legal grey areas for financial gain. These motivations explain why the word ‘okupa’ can mean very different things depending on the context.

Not all the same

During the economic crisis of 2008–2012, hundreds of thousands of homes in Spain were repossessed by banks. In some neighbourhoods, okupas were tolerated, or even supported, because they brought life back to abandoned buildings.

At the same time, more problematic forms of squatting also emerged, including cases where empty properties are occupied purely to pressure owners into paying for their departure.

Why this matters

For most residents, squatting does not affect daily life. It is primarily an urban issue and far less common on the Costa Brava.

However, owners of second homes or properties left empty for long periods should be aware that Spanish law treats occupied properties differently once squatters have taken up residence.

A legal reality

Spanish law clearly distinguishes between legal ownership and material possession. Once a property is occupied and registered as a residence, removing squatters usually requires a legal process. Acting without proper advice can make matters worse.

A balanced view

Squatting in Catalunya cannot be reduced to a single story. It sits at the intersection of housing policy, social protest, economic inequality and property law. Understanding that context helps separate fact from fear.

If you own property in Spain and need advice about a specific situation, contact a qualified local lawyer with experience in Spanish property law. Procedures depend on the circumstances, so seeking professional advice early is important.