Golden Visa Spain: Alternatives After Its End

2025-07-15 16:38:34
Golden Visa Spain: Alternatives After Its End

Content:

    For over a decade, the so-called Golden Visa attracted thousands of foreign investors to Spain. However, in 2024, the Government announced its elimination, putting an end to this fast-track residency route through real estate investment.

    If you're thinking about investing in Spain or settling as a foreign resident, it’s normal to ask: What options are left now? Can I still legally reside if I invest? What alternative best suits my profile?

    In this article, we explain what happened to the Golden Visa and what real alternatives remain available in 2025.

     

    What was the Golden Visa?

    The Golden Visa was a residence permit for non-EU investors who, in exchange for investing €500,000 in Spanish real estate (debt-free), could obtain a residency permit for themselves and their family — without needing to live permanently in the country.

    Other investment options also granted access:

    • Purchase of Spanish government bonds (€2 million minimum)

    • Bank deposits or shares in Spanish companies (€1 million minimum)

    • Business projects of general interest

    Why was it eliminated?

    In April 2024, the government approved the suspension of Golden Visa applications based on real estate investment. The main argument was that this policy contributed to housing price inflation in high-demand areas like Madrid, Barcelona, and the Costa del Sol.

    This move aligns with a broader European trend: countries like Portugal, Ireland, and Greece have also reformed their golden visa programs for similar reasons.

    Does it still exist for other types of investment?

    Yes. Although the real estate option is gone, the Entrepreneurs Law 14/2013 is still in force. This means that in 2025, you can still apply for residence if you make one of the following investments:

    • €1 million in shares or equity of Spanish companies

    • €1 million in bank deposits in Spain

    • €2 million in Spanish public debt

    • Innovative business projects that generate employment or economic impact in the country

    However, these options require more documentation and feasibility analysis compared to the previous real estate route.

     

    5 real alternatives to the Golden Visa (2025)

    1. Entrepreneur or startup visa

    If you're planning to launch an innovative business in Spain, this visa could work for you. You’ll need:

    • A business plan approved by ENISA or the Ministry of Economy
    • Sufficient capital contribution
    • Proof of economic, technological, or employment impact

    Ideal for: tech entrepreneurs, startups, innovation-driven projects with international potential.

     

    2. Digital nomad visa

    Designed for non-EU remote workers who invoice clients outside of Spain.

    Basic requirements:

    • Contract with a foreign company or stable clients as a freelancer

    • Stable and sufficient income (approx. €2,500/month)

    • University degree or proven professional experience

    Ideal for: freelancers, consultants, developers, and digital creatives.

     

    3. Non-lucrative residence visa

    Allows you to reside legally in Spain without working, as long as you have sufficient financial means and private health insurance.

    • You must show stable income (at least 400% of the annual IPREM)

    • Does not allow employment or professional activity

    Ideal for: retirees, individuals with passive income or significant savings.

    4. Company formation and residency as administrator

    You can establish a company in Spain and apply for residency as its administrator, as long as the business is real, viable, and economically impactful.

    • Requires a solid business plan

    • Capital and startup expenses must be covered

    • Hiring employees is a strong positive factor

    Ideal for: investors with entrepreneurial vision ready to build operations in Spain.

     

    5. Residency through family reunification or rootedness

    In some cases, you may qualify for residency if:

    • You're a family member of a Spanish citizen or legal resident

    • You have verifiable work, social, or family ties

    • You’ve lived continuously in Spain (under certain conditions)

    Which option suits me best?

    That depends on your personal profile, goals, and type of investment. Key questions to consider:

    • Do you want to work or just reside?

    • Is your income from abroad or within Spain?

    • Are you open to starting a company?

    • Do you have an innovative project?

    • What is your actual investment budget?

    What if I already have a Golden Visa?

    Those who already hold a Golden Visa can continue renewing it — at least for now. However, no new applications are being accepted for the real estate-based option.

     

    Conclusion

    The end of Spain’s real estate-based Golden Visa doesn’t mean foreign investors are unwelcome, but it does demand strategy, planning, and compliance with new requirements.

    At InnoTaxes, we help you analyze your situation, compare real options, and process the best alternative without delays or legal missteps.

    Thinking about investing or living in Spain?

    We can advise you on:

    • Residency options for investors, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs

    • Company formation and tax planning

    • Legal alternatives to the Golden Visa based on your profile

    Request your personalized advisory session here