Spain’s Golden Visa programme has traditionally been considered one of the most desirable residency-by-investment programmes in Europe. The programme offers non-EU citizens the opportunity to secure residency in Spain by making a qualifying investment in the country, typically through the purchase of a property.
If you are an international buyer looking to experience the Spanish lifestyle while also securing a lucrative investment opportunity, the Golden Visa has traditionally provided a clear path not only to live, work, and travel throughout Europe but also to secure a valuable residency visa.
At SpanishHomesForSale, we assist international buyers with the process of buying a property in Spain and with understanding the investment opportunities available to support a residency visa.
If you are looking to relocate to a new country, secure a vacation property, or even obtain a long-term residency visa in Europe, it is important to understand the framework of the Golden Visa programme when buying a property in Spain.
The Spanish Golden Visa is a residency permit for non-European Union citizens who make a significant investment in the Spanish economy. The most common way to obtain a Spanish Golden Visa was to buy Spanish real estate for a minimum price of €500,000.
The main reason for creating the Spanish Golden Visa was to encourage more investors to invest in Spain’s economy. This would increase economic growth. The Spanish Golden Visa allows an investor to obtain residency not only for himself but also for his eligible family members, while retaining his investment.
The main advantages of the Spanish Golden Visa to many investors outside Spain were:
Having property in one of the best locations in Europe
Having residency in Spain and the Schengen zone
Spouse or Partner
Children under the age of 18
Dependent adult children
Dependent parents in some cases
Although the most common form has been property investment, the Golden Visa programme has also offered several other investment options in the past.
A single property
Several properties that amount to at least €500,000
Residential or commercial real estate
Investment of at least €1 million in Spanish companies or investment funds
Investment of at least €2 million in Spanish government bonds
Significant business investment that leads to job creation or innovation
To be eligible for a Spanish Golden Visa, applicants must fulfil the eligibility criteria.
The common requirements include:
Being a non-EU/EEA citizen
Being at least 18 years old
Having a clean criminal record
Having sufficient financial means
Having valid private health insurance in Spain
The applicant must also demonstrate that the investment funds are legitimate and comply with the relevant Spanish financial regulations.
The Golden Visa was first introduced in Spain in 2013 to attract international investment. However, in April 2025, the program for new property investment applications was terminated due to affordability issues in major cities.
Existing investors who have successfully obtained a visa or made applications before the announcement still retain their rights to residency under the previous rules.
Given the changing rules on immigration and property investment, it is vital to seek advice to guide you on property investments related to residency options.
