The Golden Visa Spain program, which attracted thousands of international investors since 2013, officially ended on April 3, 2025. This popular residency-by-investment scheme previously allowed non-EU citizens to obtain Spanish residency through qualifying investments, particularly in real estate. While this door has closed, Spain continues to offer attractive residency options for high-net-worth individuals and investors seeking to establish their base in Europe.

Understanding the Spain Golden Visa program closure

The Spanish government terminated the Golden Visa program as part of broader housing policy reforms aimed at addressing the country's housing affordability crisis. The program, which had facilitated over 14,000 residency permits since its inception, was criticized for contributing to property price inflation in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and coastal regions.

The final applications under the Spain Golden Visa scheme were accepted until April 3, 2025, marking the end of an era for investment-based residency in Spain. However, this closure has prompted many investors to explore alternative pathways that still provide opportunities for establishing residency while optimizing their tax position.

Key Date: April 3, 2025

The Spain Golden Visa program officially terminated on this date. No new applications have been accepted since then.

Alternative residency options for investors

Despite the Golden Visa closure, Spain remains committed to attracting international talent and investment through different residency programs:

1. Entrepreneur visa and innovative business projects

Spanish's Entrepreneur Law (Ley de Emprendedores) provides residency opportunities for those establishing innovative businesses. This pathway requires:

  • A detailed business plan demonstrating innovation and economic impact
  • Endorsement from a Spanish governmental economic agency
  • Sufficient financial resources to support the venture
  • Job creation potential for Spanish workers

This option particularly suits tech entrepreneurs, startups, and businesses in emerging sectors. Unlike the former Golden Visa, it requires active involvement in business operations rather than passive investment.

2. Highly qualified professionals visa

Senior executives, researchers, and highly skilled professionals can obtain residency through employment with Spanish companies. This includes:

  • Intra-company transfers for multinational corporations
  • Direct employment with Spanish businesses
  • Research positions at recognized institutions

Consider exploring the Beckham Law tax regime, which offers significant tax advantages for qualifying expatriates, potentially reducing tax rates to a flat 24% up to 600,000 euro gross per year for up to six years.

3. Non-lucrative residence visa

Wealthy individuals who can demonstrate sufficient passive income may qualify for the non-lucrative residence visa. Requirements include:

  • Proof of €28,800 annual income (400% of Spain's IPREM) for the main applicant
  • Additional €7,200 per dependent
  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • No employment, self-employment or business in Spain

Tax Planning Consideration: While this visa does not permit employment, proper tax structuring can optimize your global tax position. Strategic planning of income sources and timing can significantly impact your Spanish tax liability.

4. Digital nomad visa

Launched in 2023, Spain's Digital Nomad Visa serves remote workers and location-independent professionals. Key benefits include:

  • Work remotely for non-Spanish companies
  • Potential tax benefits under certain conditions
  • Path to permanent residency
  • Family inclusion options

Investment opportunities without the Golden Visa

While direct real estate investment no longer provides automatic residency rights, Spain continues to welcome foreign investment. Strategic approaches include:

Business investments with job creation

Creating a Spanish company that generates employment can support residency applications. This approach requires:

  • Substantial business investment (typically €500,000+)
  • Creation of at least 5-10 full-time jobs
  • Viable business model with growth potential
  • Compliance with Spanish corporate regulations

Our company formation services can guide you through establishing a compliant Spanish business structure.

Strategic real estate investment

Although real estate purchases no longer grant residency, they remain attractive for:

  • Portfolio diversification
  • Rental income generation
  • Long-term capital appreciation
  • Establishing ties to Spain for future residency applications

Understanding Spanish wealth tax implications is crucial when holding significant assets in Spain.

Tax implications for former Golden Visa alternatives

Each residency pathway carries distinct tax consequences that require careful planning:

Tax residency considerations

Spending more than 183 days in Spain typically triggers tax residency, subjecting worldwide income to Spanish taxation. Key considerations include:

  • Progressive tax rates up to 47% on global income
  • Wealth tax on worldwide assets
  • Inheritance tax planning requirements
  • Exit tax implications when leaving Spain

Available tax optimization strategies

Despite the Golden Visa closure, several tax planning opportunities remain:

  • Beckham Law regime: 24% flat tax up to 600,000 euro gross per year for qualifying expatriates
  • Holding company structures: Optimize investment returns
  • Treaty benefits: Leverage Spain's extensive tax treaty network
  • Timing strategies: Strategic planning of income recognition

For comprehensive guidance on Spanish tax obligations, consult our non-resident tax services.

Comparing EU residency programs

With Spain's Golden Visa discontinued, investors often consider alternative EU programs:

  • Portugal: Recently modified but still operational Golden Visa program
  • Greece: €250,000 real estate investment threshold
  • Malta: Citizenship by investment program
  • Cyprus: Various investment residency options

However, Spain's quality of life, infrastructure, and business environment continue to make it attractive despite the Golden Visa termination. According to the OECD Economic Survey of Spain, the country maintains strong economic fundamentals and growth prospects.

Strategic planning for Spanish residency

Successfully navigating post-Golden Visa residency requires comprehensive planning:

1

Assess eligibility

Assess eligibility for alternative visa categories

2

Tax impact analysis

Evaluate tax implications of each residency pathway

3

Structure investments

Structure investments for tax efficiency

4

Documentation preparation

Prepare comprehensive documentation

5

Long-term planning

Consider long-term succession planning

The Spanish Immigration Portal provides updated information on current residency requirements and procedures.

Ready to Explore Your Options? With the Golden Visa program closed, navigating Spanish residency requires expert guidance. Our team specializes in identifying the best pathway for your unique situation and ensuring optimal tax efficiency.

Why expert guidance matters more than ever

The end of the Spain Golden Visa program has created a more complex landscape for international investors. Professional guidance becomes essential for:

  • Identifying the most suitable residency pathway
  • Optimizing tax structures before establishing residency
  • Ensuring compliance with evolving regulations
  • Coordinating legal, tax, and immigration strategies
  • Planning for long-term wealth preservation

Navigate Your Spanish Residency Journey

While the Golden Visa Spain program has ended, opportunities for establishing residency remain. Our bilingual tax advisors specialize in helping international clients structure their Spanish investments and residency applications for optimal tax efficiency.

From entrepreneur visas to strategic business investments, we provide comprehensive support for your Spanish residency goals. Our expertise spans tax planning, corporate structuring, and ongoing compliance to ensure your success in Spain.

Residency Application Checklist

  • Valid passport with 1+ year validity
  • Criminal record certificates
  • Medical insurance documentation
  • Proof of financial resources
  • Business plan (if applicable)
  • Employment contract (if applicable)
  • Tax residency certificates