The Government of Catalonia has expanded access to its popular Préstecs Emancipació program, designed to help residents purchase their first home. As of June 2026, the maximum eligible age has increased from 35 to 40 years old, allowing more people to benefit from this housing support initiative. (Idealista)
What Has Changed?
Previously, the program was available only to individuals between the ages of 18 and 35. Under the new regulations, applicants up to 40 years old can now access the scheme.
The change reflects current market realities, where rising property prices make it increasingly difficult for many people to save enough money for a down payment at a younger age.
How Does the Program Work?
The program is managed by the Institut Català de Finances (ICF) in partnership with the Catalan Housing Agency.
Its main purpose is to help buyers cover the initial down payment required to purchase a property. The government provides an interest-free loan covering up to 20% of the property's value, with a maximum amount of €50,000.
The remaining financing is typically provided through a standard mortgage from one of the participating banking institutions.
One of the key advantages of the program is that the public loan carries no interest and is repaid only after the main mortgage has been fully paid off, significantly reducing the financial burden during the early years of homeownership.
Who Can Apply?
The main requirements include:
- Being between 18 and 40 years old.
- Being registered as a resident in Catalonia.
- Purchasing a first primary residence.
- Using the property as a permanent home.
- Meeting the income limits established by the program.
An Opportunity for Future Homeowners
The initiative has already helped thousands of people purchase their first home and has become one of Catalonia’s most important housing support measures.
Extending eligibility to age 40 recognizes the challenges faced by today's buyers and opens the door for more families and professionals to enter the property market.
Spain Costas Helps Clients Secure Mortgages in Spain
At Spain Costas, we work closely with leading Spanish banks and financial institutions to help our clients obtain the most competitive mortgage solutions available, whether they are Spanish residents or international buyers.
Our services include:
- Preliminary mortgage eligibility assessment.
- Selection of the most suitable lending institutions.
- Assistance with document preparation and review.
- Support during negotiations with banks.
- Full guidance throughout the approval process until the final signing before a notary.
- Advice on purchase costs, taxes, and financial planning.
With extensive experience in the Spanish real estate market and strong relationships with major banking partners, Spain Costas helps clients secure favorable financing terms while making the property purchasing process smooth, transparent, and stress-free.
