Spain Ends Golden Visa: Exploring New Residency Options for Non-EU Investors

Last update: October 30, 2026

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Introduction to the Spanish Golden Visa

Since its launch in 2013, the Spanish Golden Visa program has offered non-EU nationals a pathway to residency through substantial financial investments, primarily in real estate. It became a popular option for investors looking to live, work, or travel within Spain and the Schengen Zone. The government announced its end in April 2024, and Organic Law 1/2025 abolished it: since 3 April 2025, Spain no longer accepts new Golden Visa applications. This marks a significant shift in residency options for non-EU citizens.

Recent Changes: Discontinuation of the Golden Visa Program

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the end of the Golden Visa program in April 2024. The repeal was passed as part of Organic Law 1/2025 and took effect on 3 April 2025. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to reducing speculative investments in the real estate market and ensuring housing affordability for local residents.

Key points about the change:

Eligibility Impact: The program, which required a minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate, has not accepted new applications since 3 April 2025.
Existing Holders: Permits already granted remain valid, and renewals are processed under the rules that applied when the permit was first granted. Applications filed before 3 April 2025 were also handled under the old rules.

This policy aligns with similar moves by other European countries, like Ireland, which closed its investor program, and Portugal, which removed real estate from its golden visa options, partly to address housing challenges.

Benefits of Obtaining a Golden Visa

Now that the program has ended, here is a reminder of the advantages it offered:

Residency: Immediate residency for investors and their families.
Schengen Access: Freedom to travel across the Schengen Zone.
Family Reunification: Ability to include immediate family members.
Path to Citizenship: Eligibility for permanent residency after five years and citizenship after ten years of legal residency.

Alternatives for Residency in Spain

With the Golden Visa program no longer available, non-EU nationals can explore other viable pathways to residency:

1. Non-Lucrative Visa

Designed for individuals not planning to work in Spain, this visa requires proof of financial means and private health insurance.

Ideal for: Retirees or those with passive income.

2. Entrepreneur Visa

This visa supports foreign entrepreneurs seeking to launch innovative businesses that benefit the Spanish economy.

Ideal for: Startups or projects contributing to job creation.

3. Student Visa

Allows non-EU nationals to reside in Spain while enrolled in a recognized educational institution.

Ideal for: Students pursuing higher education or specialized training.

4. Work Visa

For professionals with a job offer in Spain, this visa provides a direct pathway to residency.

Ideal for: Skilled workers filling positions in demand.

You no longer need to invest 500,000 euros to live in Spain, but buying a home is still a great way to settle. See how we help buyers from outside the EU.

Application Process and Considerations

The process for alternative visas typically involves:

Providing proof of sufficient financial means.
Submitting a clean criminal record.
Obtaining comprehensive health insurance.

Engaging a legal advisor is strongly recommended to ensure compliance with all requirements and streamline the application process.

Living in Spain with Alternative Visas

Despite the Golden Visa’s discontinuation, Spain remains an attractive destination for non-EU nationals. Residents with alternative visas can enjoy:

Public Services: Access to Spain’s world-class healthcare and education systems.
Cultural Integration: Opportunities to immerse in Spanish culture and community life.
High Quality of Life: Affordable living costs, a vibrant lifestyle, and stunning landscapes.

Conclusion

While the Golden Visa program’s closure marks the end of an era, Spain continues to offer multiple pathways for non-EU nationals to establish residency. Whether through entrepreneurship, education, or retirement, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy Spain’s unique charm and high quality of life.

If you’re considering a move to Spain, contact our team of experts for tailored advice on navigating the country’s residency options.

Ready to start your journey? Let us guide you every step of the way!

FAQs

What is the Golden Visa Spain?
The Golden Visa Spain was a residency-by-investment program allowing non-EU nationals to obtain residency through significant financial investments, primarily in real estate. It was abolished by Organic Law 1/2025 and has not accepted new applications since 3 April 2025.

Why did Spain end the Golden Visa program?
The government ended it to curb speculative real estate investment and help keep housing affordable and accessible for residents.

What are the alternatives to the Golden Visa?
Alternatives include the Non-Lucrative Visa, Entrepreneur Visa, Student Visa, and Work Visa. Each option caters to different residency needs and profiles.

What happens to existing Golden Visa holders?
Permits already granted remain valid, and renewals are processed under the rules that applied when the permit was first granted. No new applications have been accepted since 3 April 2025.

Can Golden Visa holders still apply for citizenship?
Yes, Golden Visa holders remain eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship after ten years of legal residency, provided they meet all additional criteria.

Do European citizens need a visa to live in Spain?
No, EU citizens can live, work, and study in Spain without a visa due to their right to freedom of movement within the European Union.

Can non-EU citizens still buy property in Spain?
Yes. Anyone can buy property in Spain, but buying no longer gives you a residence permit. To live in Spain, you need a separate visa, such as the non-lucrative visa, a work visa or the digital nomad visa.