The Spanish Golden Visa Is Coming to an End
The long-anticipated decision regarding Spain’s Golden Visa has finally arrived: the program is being abolished.
The last day to apply will be April 3, 2025. If you were considering this residency-by-investment route, time is running out.
Initially, discussions focused on eliminating the real estate investment pathway, but the government has now decided to terminate all investment-based visa options, including those granted for capital investments and business projects.
On April 3, 2025, Organic Law 1/2025 will take effect, officially repealing the Golden Visa scheme by nullifying Articles 63 to 67 of Law 14/2013 – the provisions that allowed non-residents to obtain residency through significant investments in Spain.
What This Means for Investors
Previously, Spain’s Golden Visa allowed non-residents to secure a visa or residence permit by making one of the following qualifying investments:
- $2.2 million investment (€2 million) in Spanish public debt securities
- $1.1 million investment (€1 million) in Spanish stocks, funds, venture capital, or bank deposits
- $550,000 property purchase (€500,000) in Spain
- A business project of general interest to the Spanish economy
Under the new law, these routes will no longer be available after April 3, 2025.
Existing Golden Visas & Renewals – What Happens Now?
If you apply before April 3, 2025 – Your application will be processed under the current regulations.
If you already hold a Golden Visa – Your visa will remain valid, and renewals will follow the same rules that were in place when your original permit was granted.
However, after this date, new applications will no longer be accepted.
Alternatives to the Golden Visa
If you were planning to move to Spain through investment, don’t worry – there are still excellent visa options available!
Passive Income Visa (Non-Lucrative Visa – NLV)
Ideal for retirees or financially independent individuals, the Spanish NLV visa allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain without working. To qualify, you must prove you have sufficient financial means to support yourself – typically around $2,600 per month (€2,400), plus additional funds for family members.
Digital Nomad Visa
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If you work remotely for a company outside of Spain, the Digital Nomad Visa could be the perfect alternative.
This visa grants residency for up to five years and offers tax benefits under Spain’s special regime for remote workers. To qualify, you need to demonstrate a stable remote income, usually at least $2,730 per month (€2,520).
Both of these visas provide legal residence in Spain and, over time, a path to permanent residency and Spanish citizenship.
You Still Have Options When Relocating to Spain
If you’re looking for alternative ways to relocate to Spain, the Passive Income Visa and Digital Nomad Visa offer fantastic opportunities.
Get in touch today to explore your options before the deadline!
Thinking about moving to Spain? Curious to see what your options are?