Patricia Casaburi
The Golden Visa Spain allows non-EU nationals, including those outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland, to obtain a Spanish residence permit through a qualifying investment.
A major advantage of the Spain Golden Visa program is that it does not require a minimum stay in Spain, allowing investors to keep their primary residence elsewhere while still enjoying the benefits of Spanish residency.
This guide provides all the information you need on the Spain Golden Visa, including its benefits, requirements, application process, and more.
- What is the Spain Golden Visa?
- 10 Benefits of the Spain Golden Visa Program
- Eligibility Criteria for the Spanish Golden Visa
- Spain Golden Visa Program Investment Options
- Required Documents for the Golden Visa in Spain
- Opening a Bank Account and the NIE Number for Spain Golden Visa
- Spain Golden Visa Application Process
- Spain Golden Visa Cost 2025
⚠️ Spain Golden Visa Ending: April 2025 Update
The Spain Golden Visa program ended on April 3, 2025, and is no longer accepting applications.
Protection for Existing and Pending Applications
Investors and family members who submitted applications before the April deadline will remain unaffected. They will retain all benefits and renewal rights under the program’s current rules. Existing Golden Visa holders will also maintain their rights.
Alternative Residency Options
The Portugal, Italy, Greece, and Malta Golden Visas are great alternatives for investors looking for a European residency permit without a stay requirement.
For those seeking to live in Spain, the Non-Lucrative Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa are excellent options.
What is the Spain Golden Visa?
The Spanish Golden Visa is a residency by investment program that allows foreigners to live in Spain provided they make a significant capital investment in the country’s economy.
Spain’s Golden Visa was launched in 2013 as part of the national strategy to boost the Spanish economy and increase foreign investment.
To qualify for the Spain Golden Visa program, individuals can purchase real estate, invest in Spanish companies, fund or deposit, create employment opportunities, or make government bonds.
The Spanish Investor Visa program grants qualifying individuals a renewable, temporary residence permit in exchange for an investment in the country. After five years of renewing the Spanish Golden Visa residency permit, you can apply for permanent residency. You can apply for Spanish citizenship after spending ten years in the country.
The Spain Golden Visa ended on 3rd April 2025, after several months of legislative discussions.
8 Benefits of the Spain Golden Visa Program
There are many Golden Visa programs across Europe, but the Spanish Golden Visa is one of the easiest to apply for, and it is known for its fast and clear process. Successful applicants enjoy key benefits, including the possibility of obtaining Spanish citizenship and a passport through investment. According to the latest Global Passport Index by Global Citizen Solutions, the Spanish passport ranks 20th globally, offering visa-free travel to 194 countries.
Here are some of the key benefits of the Spanish Golden Visa:
- EU citizenship eligibility: The Spain Golden Visa is renewable, and provided that the minimum investment is maintained, EU citizenship is possible after ten years of permanent residency.
- EU education and healthcare: As a Spanish Golden Visa holder, you and your family gain the right to high-quality education and healthcare in Spain.
- The right to work and do business in Spain: A Spanish residence visa provides foreigners unrestricted access to Spain’s job market and entrepreneurial opportunities. This is appealing to investors and entrepreneurs.
- Tax optimization: Several CBI countries provide numerous tax benefits and incentives. Countries like Vanuatu impose zero taxes on personal and corporate income.
- Family reunification: The Spanish Golden Visa guarantees residence permits for your spouse and children under 18. Other family members who are your legal dependents can also apply.
- Plan B: Acquiring citizenship by investment provides indefinite residency in a stable country. A ‘plan B’ puts your mind at ease during economic or political instability or global crisis.
- Easy renewal: The Spanish Golden Visa residence permit is easily renewable if the conditions for the granting of the right are still met.
- Fast processing time: After submitting the Spain Golden Visa application, the legal period for reaching a decision is ten days. The residence permit takes about 30 days to be approved.
Spain Golden Visa Eligibility Criteria
These are the Golden Visa Spain requirements:
- Be over 18 years of age
- Be a non-EU, non-EEA, or non-Swiss citizen
- Make a significant investment and provide proof of the respective financial investment.
- Have a clean criminal record.
- Applicants can’t be on the nation’s list of undesirable people
- Have valid medical insurance coverage and an official health certificate.
- Applicants must not have previously been refused visas or entry into the Schengen zone.
- Provide proof of having sufficient funds to sustain yourself and your family members while residing in Spain.
Which family members qualify for the Golden Visa in Spain?
You can include your immediate family members in your application for the Golden Visa in Spain, including certain dependents. Those who can qualify are:
- Your spouse or domestic partner if together for over two years
- Your children under the age of 18
- Adult children (over 18 years old) or parents who are economically dependent – on the condition that you present financial proof that they are dependent or have a health condition that makes them unable to provide for themselves.
Spain Golden Visa Program Investment Options
The Spain investment visa scheme provides flexible investment opportunities to qualifying investors, such as in real estate or capital shares. Below are the investment options under the Spanish Golden Visa Scheme. Regardless of your preferred route, you must maintain your investment for a minimum of five years to keep your residence permit.
- Real Estate Investment: Invest at least €500,000 in commercial or residential real estate in Spain. The property must be free of liens, except for amounts exceeding €500,000. If you are married under a community property or separation property regime, one spouse can get the investor visa, and the other can apply as a family member. If you already own the property, it must have been purchased since 2014.
- Spanish Public Debt Securities: Invest at least €2 million in long-term public debt securities (minimum 5 years). These pay annual interest, offering competitive returns.
- Stocks and Shares: Invest at least €1 million in public or private stocks of companies operating in Spain.
- Funds and Venture Capital: Invest at least €1 million in funds or venture capital funds of companies in Spain, with returns paid as dividends.
- Bank Deposits: Invest at least €1 million in a Spanish bank deposit, which pays agreed-upon interest.
- Business Investment: Invest in a business project that benefits Spain, such as job creation, regional socio-economic impact, or innovation. A representative can apply for the visa on behalf of the investor.
Required Documents for the Golden Visa in Spain
Spain Golden Visa scheme applicants must submit the following documents for both the initial application and each renewal. Note that official documents for the Spain Golden Visa, like criminal records, marriage, and birth certificates, must have an Apostille of The Hague from the issuing country. Non-Spanish documents must be translated by a Sworn Spanish translator.
Additional documents also may be required. Check with your nearest Spanish Embassy or Consulate for further clarification.
- Completed application form.
- Original and a copy of your valid passport, with two blank pages for the visa. Please note that passports issued for over ten years are not accepted.
- A recent passport-size, colored photograph with a white background. The photo must be taken from the front, without dark glasses, reflections, or clothing/hair that hides the face.
- Original and copy of valid medical insurance: Public health insurance or private health insurance contracted with an insurance company licensed to operate in Spain
- Original and photocopy of a medical certificate issued no more than 90 days before your appointment date. It must include letterhead and original signature and/or stamp from a doctor (only M.D. or D.O’s will be accepted).
- Clean criminal record Certificate must be apostilled/legalized and sworn and translated into Spanish.
- Proof of visa fee payment must be provided in the local currency (Euros).
- Proof of lawful residence in the consular district where the applicant is residing
- Proof of the legal representative’s identity and capacity in cases where the application is submitted through one. An original and a copy of their identity document or a valid passport has to be provided, as well as proof of their power of attorney or any document accrediting their representation.
- Show you meet the Spain Golden Visa financial requirements. For 2025, you need €2,400 per month (400% of Spain’s IPREM). €600 per month for each family member (100% of IPREM).
- Proof can be a bank certificate (not a regular bank statement) showing your balance or regular income.
- Show enough money to cover three years of living expenses in Spain.
- Provide birth or adoption certificates to prove your relationship with your children.
- If you’re applying with your spouse or partner, you’ll need an official marriage or civil partnership certificate.
Other required documents
Category | Required Documents |
For Family Members | 1. General documents (passport, proof of legal residence, health insurance, criminal record certificate, proof of sufficient funds, etc.). |
For Real Estate Buyers | 1. Proof of property purchase. |
For Capital Investors | 1. Proof of investment (minimum €2 million in Spanish government bonds, €1 million in shares of Spanish companies, or €1 million in bank deposits). |
For Business Project Investors | 1. Proof that the business investment is beneficial to Spain’s economy, job creation, or technological innovation. |
Opening a Bank Account and the NIE Number for Spain Golden Visa
Opening a Spanish bank account and getting a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) Number is one of the basic Spain Investor Visa requirements.
The NIE is a Spanish identification and tax number specific to foreigners in Spain. It is used for legal and official activities, such as filing tax returns and purchasing a real estate property. It’s possible to request the NIE in Spain or at the Spanish consular office in the country of their residence.
Normally, it takes three weeks to obtain the NIE.
This document is used for the following activities in Spain:
- Opening bank accounts
- Filing tax returns
- Buying or selling real estate property
- Renting property
- Automotive purchase and sale
- Incorporating a business
- Inheritance arrangements
- Registering as a foreign student
- Applying for a Spanish driver’s license
- Arranging basic utilities
- Public and private healthcare services
After obtaining NIE, you need to open a Spanish bank account.
Spain Golden Visa Application Process
The Spain Golden Visa has several steps. After investing, you get a one-year multiple-entry visa. Within that year, visit Spain to apply for a three-year residence permit if your investment remains. You don’t have to live in Spain but must visit to renew it. You can apply through a Schengen Visa or directly for an Investor Visa. The application can be in your name or through your European Union company.
1. Decide on your Golden Visa investment route: Choose whether you want to invest in the real estate market or make a capital investment. |
2. Make the qualifying financial investment: With a lawyer's assistance, the investment can be completed following all the legal requirements, such as obtaining an NIE and opening an account with a Spanish bank. |
3. Open a Spanish bank account and NIE: A bank account and NIE (Foreigner’s Identification Number/tax identification number) make conducting business and personal affairs easier in Spain. . |
4 . Prepare your documents: Gather necessary documents, including a property Registry Filing certificate (if investing in real estate) and other required paperwork (translated and legalized as per Spanish regulations) |
5. Book Your Interview: Schedule an appointment at the Spanish Consulate. |
6. File the initial application with the Spanish Consulate: You must pay the government application fee and provide all the required documentation. |
7. Issuance of the Spanish Golden Visa: If approved, you'll get a 1-year visa to live, work, study in Spain, and travel in Schengen. After a year, apply for a Golden Visa Residence Permit. If you have a Schengen Visa in Spain, apply for the permit and book a biometric appointment for your residence card (TIE). |
8. Attend a biometric collection session in Spain: Once your Golden Visa is approved, you should attend your biometric collection appointment to request your residence card. |
9. Issuance of the residence card: Your residence permit will be issued and valid for three years. The residence permit is renewable for periods of 5 years after that, with the possibility to become a permanent resident in year five years. |
10. Apply for citizenship: After ten years of residence, you are entitled to apply for Spanish citizenship, which allows you to get a Spanish passport. |
Spain Golden Visa Processing Time
The processing time for a Spain investor visa is up to 20 days after submitting the application. The same duration applies to investor visa renewals in Spain. However, the processing time for the Spanish Golden Visa might change to 30 days if you are required to provide additional documents.
Months 1-4
Preparation time
- The client chooses the best investment option suited to their needs
- The client completes the investment
- Preparation and submission of an application for the Spanish Golden Visa
Months 5-7
Residence card issuance
- The client applies online for the temporary residence permit. The UGE has 30 days to respond
- Book biometrics appointment (when the client is in Spain)
- TIE is issued and ready for pick-up. The card must be collected by the client
Year 2
Renewal application
Right before the three-year residency permit expires, go to Spain and renew your application.
Year 10
Apply for citizenship
The citizenship application may be submitted after ten years of residency.
Spain Golden Visa Cost 2025
The Spanish government charges specific fees concerning the Golden Visa. The Spanish Golden Visa fee payment is compulsory and has to be made at the same time when submitting a visa application.
The Golden Visa fee has to be paid in local currency (€), and it is subject to regular changes due to currency fluctuations.
Application through the Consulate (for the one-year Visa)
The Spanish Golden Visa cost is €90. For foreign nationals of Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom, different rates are applied for reasons of reciprocity. In these cases, the amount of the fee must be consulted with the Consular Office.
UGE application (for the 3-year residence permit)
- First application: €73,26 per applicant
- Renewal of the residence permit: €78,67
TIE request
- €16,08- First card
- €19,30EUR – Renewal of the card
NOTE: these fees are updated annually
Investment costs
Investment Type | Minimum Investment Amount |
Real estate | €500,000 |
Spanish public debt securities | €2 million |
Stocks, shares, or bank deposits | €1 million |
Business investment | €1 million |
Spain Golden Visa Renewal and Permanent Residency
Initially, the Spanish Golden Visa is valid for a year, unless you submit the application in Spain, then it is valid for three years. However, Spain Golden Visa can be renewed for a period of up to five years.
Here are the requirements for renewing an Investor Residence Visa Spain:
- Own a valid Investor Residence Visa in Spain or a visa which has expired no more than 90 days earlier
- You maintain your investment
- You still meet all Spain Golden Visa requirements
Path to permanent residency through the Spain Golden Visa
The Spain Golden Visa offers a clear route to permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship. Here’s how:
- Keep your qualifying investment (e.g., real estate, public debt, shares) active throughout the initial residency period.
- Reside in Spain for at least five years, meeting renewal requirements along the way.
- After five years, you can apply for permanent residency, which allows you to live and work in Spain indefinitely with many of the same benefits as citizens without needing to renew your Golden Visa.
How to Gain Spanish Citizenship and Passport
Citizenship in Spain can be obtained through naturalization after 10 years of legal residence. To qualify, applicants must prove they have lived in Spain for at least six months per year during this period. Once citizenship is granted, you’ll gain a Spain Golden Passport, offering greater global mobility and valuable benefits without needing to maintain your original investment.
Note that due to legislative changes in recent years, nationals from a select few countries can qualify for Spain’s speedy citizenship process, namely applicants from Ibero-American countries and former Spanish colonies. The fast-track option is over two short years (730 days) and mandates that the minimum stay requirements for citizenship in Spain must be met.
These residency requirements include the need to reside in Spain legally for two years and not be absent from the country for more than three consecutive months.
Countries that enjoy fast-track to citizenship privileges include:
Mexico | Chile | Guatemala |
Peru | Colombia | Honduras |
Argentina | Costa Rica | Venezuela |
Philippines | Dominican Republic | Panana |
Cuba | Equador | Paraguay |
Bolivia | El Salvador | Brazil |
Ecuatorial Guinea | Nicaragua | Uruguay |
Tax Considerations for the Spain Golden Visa Program
There are a few taxes you might want to consider when applying for the Golden Visa in Spain, and they are as follows:
Tax Type | Details |
Foreign Income Tax | Investors must pay taxes on worldwide income if they reside in Spain for over 183 days in any year. |
Personal Income Tax | Non-residents are taxed at 24% on income from employment or business in Spain. |
Capital Gains Tax | Capital gains from asset transfers are taxed at progressive rates between 19% and 28%, depending on the amount of income. |
Interest Income | Interest income is taxed as savings income at rates: 19% up to €6,000, 21% for €6,000-€50,000, 23% for €50,000-€200,000, 27% for €200,000-€300,000, and 28% for income above €300,000. |
Property Tax | An annual property tax of 0.4% to 1.3% is required, depending on property investment type and location. |
Comparison: Spain Golden Visa vs Other Countries
Spain’s Golden Visa program is ending, but other EU Golden Visa options remain attractive for investors. While Spain’s Golden Visa offers strong benefits, including access to the Schengen Area and a clear path to permanent residency and citizenship, each country has its unique advantages. Other Golden Visa programs may suit different preferences and financial situations, such as lower investment amounts or quicker residency options.
Spain and its fellow countries do not necessarily guarantee dual citizenship, depending on the investor’s home country’s laws and whether it allows dual nationality. Here is a brief overview of how Spain compares to other Golden Visas:
1. The Malta Permanent Residency by Investment Program requires an investment of €375,000 in real estate purchase or rent of a property for €14,000 per year and a €2,000 donation. It provides EU residency with Schengen Area access and does not require a minimum stay, making it ideal for those looking for residency without the intention of citizenship.
2. Portugal’s Golden Visa offers a range of investment options starting from €250,000, including business, research and job creation. The program provides a path to citizenship after five years, with low residency requirements, and the country is known for its affordable living and high quality of life.
3. Greece Golden Visa offers the most cost-effective option in Europe, requiring an investment of €250,000 in real estate. Although it does not directly lead to citizenship, it provides permanent residency and access to the Schengen Area, making it a popular choice for affordable European residency.
4. The Cyprus Golden Visa requires an investment of €300,000 in real estate. It offers quick residency and EU market access. However, Cyprus no longer provides direct citizenship through investment. But, the program has give you a direct route to permanent residency and several tax benefits.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Spanish Golden Visa
What is Spain’s Golden Visa program?
Spain’s Golden Visa, officially called the Investor Visa, allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Spain for three years by investing at least €500,000 ($541,250) in real estate. This visa also provides the freedom to travel within the Schengen Area and can be renewed, offering a pathway to long-term residency.
Is the Spain Golden Visa ending?
Yes, the Spanish government ended the Golden Visa program on April 3, 2025, and will no longer accept applications. Applications processed before that date will remain unaffected.
How long do Spain Golden Visas last?
The Golden Visa allows you to get a temporary residence permit and stay in Spain for one year. Unless you submit the application in Spain, then it is valid for three years. Once this period has expired, a residence authorization can be renewed for five years if you maintain your investment in the country.
For how long is the Spain Golden Visa residency permit valid?
The initial residency permit is valid for three years and renewable for five-year periods as long as you maintain your investment in Spain. Residency is not required for renewal, making this a key benefit of the Spanish Golden Visa.
Can I apply for Spanish citizenship with a Golden Visa?
The Spain Golden Visa is an investment immigration program granting residency in exchange for an economic contribution. While it doesn’t directly lead to citizenship, living in Spain with the visa can make you eligible for citizenship after 10 years.
Can I fast-track to Spanish citizenship?
Certain nationals from Ibero-American countries and former Spanish colonies may be eligible to fast-track the route to citizenship in Spain. In just two years, they can obtain an EU passport. Conditions include fulfilling the minimum stay requirement and not being absent from Spain for more than three months.
Can I work in Spain with a Golden Visa?
Yes, a Golden Visa allows you to work in Spain. The visa grants residency rights, including the ability to work and conduct business.
When does the Golden Visa start counting?
From the day that the Spain Golden Visa is issued, it is valid for one year. The residence permit (TIE) is valid for three years.
What does a financial guarantee mean for the Golden Visa requirement?
Each applicant must show proof of sufficient funds or savings to live in Spain. You can also show proof of your savings with a considerable balance of funds in your account as opposed to showing your monthly income statement.
What is the cost of the Spain Golden Visa to get citizenship?
The Spain Golden Visa cost depends on what investment option you select. For the Spain real estate visa option, you will need to purchase real estate that costs €500,000 minimum. You can invest in residential or commercial property.
Another option would be to make a bank deposit of at least €1 million or invest €1 million in shares of Spanish businesses. You can also contribute €2 million in public debt securities.
How can I get permanent residence in Spain?
In order to be granted permanent residence in Spain, the applicant must have lived legally and effectively in Spain for five years. This means that the individual must not be abroad for over six consecutive months and must not exceed a total of ten months of absence from Spain during the respective years.
Do you get residency if you buy property in Spain?
Yes, making a real estate purchase worth €500,000 or more in Spain can qualify you for a Golden Visa, which grants residency. This visa allows residency for the buyer and their family, along with access to the Schengen Zone for travel.
What are my Spain Golden Visa property options?
You can choose residential, commercial, or a mix of property types. The property can be rented out, and multiple buyers can combine their investments in one property. Any amount above the minimum investment, which is €500,000, can be financed with a mortgage.
Can I buy a mix of properties individually and with bank loans?
As long as you invest €500,000 of your own funds, the rest can be financed by a bank of your choosing. E.g., if you buy a property for €1 million, you can invest €500,000 from your own funds and get a mortgage for the remaining €500,000.
Can I get a Spanish passport?
Provided that you fulfill the government’s criteria of residing in Spain for ten years and follow all the legal steps to acquire Spanish nationality, you may be eligible for a Spanish passport.
How long can you live in Spain with a Golden Visa?
You can choose to reside indefinitely in Spain with a Golden Visa. In fact, if you reside there for ten years, you’ll become eligible for an EU passport, which means you’ll no longer require a passport or have to submit a Schengen visa application to visit European countries in the Schengen Area.
Does Spain have a Golden Visa?
Spain has a Golden Visa program that grants foreign investors residency rights in exchange for a significant investment in the country’s economy.
What does a Spanish Golden Visa give you?
The Spanish Golden Visa is a Spanish visa that gives you full residency rights in Spain and access to the Schengen Area and other EU countries. It enables you to live and work in Spain, access the country’s national healthcare system, and more.
Who qualifies for the Golden Visa in Spain?
To qualify for the Golden Visa in Spain you must:
- Be over 18 years of age
- Be a non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss national
- Make a significant investment as stipulated by the Spanish government
- Have a clean criminal record
- Not be on the nation’s list of undesirable people
- Have valid medical insurance coverage and an official health certificate
- Have not previously been refused visas or entry into the Schengen zone
- Have sufficient funds to sustain themselves and their family while they reside in Spain
Is the Golden Visa in Spain worth it?
Considered one of the most successful investment programs in Europe, the Spanish Golden Visa offers applicants an array of advantages. Some of the program’s key benefits include the opportunity to make profitable investments in Spain, EU residency, visa-free travel in Europe, and a pathway to Spanish citizenship.
What are the disadvantages of the Golden Visa in Spain?
One of the biggest drawbacks of the Golden Visa in Spain is the cost. The visa has minimum investment requirements, which can be substantial for some people.
How much does it cost to get a Golden Visa in Spain?
The minimum investment required for the Spanish Golden Visa is €500,000 and that’s the main cost. Apart from that, there’s also the Golden Visa fee, which is €90. For nationals of Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom, different rates are applied for reasons of reciprocity.
What are Golden Visa schemes?
Golden Visa schemes are programs offered by various countries, granting residency or citizenship to foreign investors in exchange for substantial investment in the host country’s economy.
How much money do you need to get a Golden Visa in Spain?
The minimum investment of €500,000 is the main cost of the Spanish Golden Visa. Apart from that, there’s also the Golden Visa fee, which is €90.
