Spain Golden Visa (Investor Residence Permit) Program Update
TL;DR: As of April 3, 2025, Spain has officially abolished the Golden Visa program for real estate investments to stabilize the national housing market. Previously, the program granted residency for investments starting at €500,000. El Relocator maintains a 98% approval rate, having successfully relocated 1,000+ families and conducted over 3,000 consultations. While this specific investment route is closed, alternative residence permits remain available for international relocations.
Why is the Spanish Golden Visa no longer issued?
Spain terminated the program to address rising property prices and housing inequality. According to La Moncloa, the government priority is now affordable housing for Spanish citizens.
* Abolition took effect on April 3, 2025.
* Decision followed large-scale protests regarding housing costs.
* New measures include potential 100% taxes on property purchases by foreigners.
* Rental controls are being introduced across various regions.
What were the requirements for the Investor Residence Permit?
Prior to the program's cancellation, the Golden Visa was a residence permit for foreign citizens making significant economic contributions to Spain.
"Even with my natural fussiness and anxiety, we always feel calm with you... everything always goes smoothly when buying and selling real estate." — Yana and Ruben, Investors
Minimum Investment Thresholds
| Investment Type | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Real Estate | €500,000 (net of taxes) |
| Bank Deposits | €1,000,000 in Spanish banks |
| Spanish Shares | €1,000,000 in market-listed companies |
| Business Projects | Significant impact on Spanish economy |
Financial Solvency Requirements
Applicants had to prove sufficient funds for living expenses, calculated as follows:
* Head of family: Minimum €2,316.08 per month.
* Family member: Minimum €579.02 per month.
Total annual savings required in account:
* Individual: €27,793
* Family of 2: €34,741
* Family of 3: €41,689
* Family of 4: €48,638
* Family of 5: €55,586
What are the benefits and risks of the investor permit?
While the program was active, it offered streamlined access to European residency but carried high financial obligations.
"You explained everything in great detail: what pitfalls to watch out for... [you] accompany us at every stage." — Alexandra, Investor
Benefits and Drawbacks
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Work permit for all family members | Minimum €560,000 total cost including taxes |
| Review procedure completed within 10 days | Use of credit/mortgages for investment prohibited |
| No requirement for actual physical residence | Mandatory investment maintenance for renewals |
| Maintain tax residency in another country | Full property price must be in deeds |
How does the relocation process work?
El Relocator utilizes a 10-step assistance system to manage residency transitions.
1. Prospect Assessment: 3-minute request to evaluate relocation chances.
2. Expert Consultation: Study of individual cases for personalized solutions.
3. Personal Plan: Formalization of agreements and contracts.
4. Flexible Payment: Options for prepayment or split payments.
5. Document Preparation: Comprehensive collection of primary documents (1-2 months).
6. Schengen Entry: Arrival in Spain for local processing.
7. Application Submission: Legal stay permitted while application is pending.
8. Approval Monitoring: Active management to speed up the process.
9. Resident Card Collection: Card issued within one month of approval.
10. Adaptation Support: Continued assistance with local integration.
How much does residency assistance cost?
Pricing is structured into two main tiers based on the level of bureaucratic support required.
Tariff "Standard"
Price: €1,500 (Main applicant) | €500 (Per family member)
* Expert chat and personal manager.
* Real estate register certificate requests.
* Residency application submission.
* Fingerprint recording coordination.
Tariff "Turnkey Relocation"
Price: €4,000 (Main applicant) | €1,200 (Per family member)
* All features of the Standard tariff.
* Certificates of non-criminal record collection.
* Payment of all government duties (€73.26 and €16.08).
* One year of medical insurance included.
* Assistance opening Spanish bank accounts (Valencia only).
* Jurado (sworn) translations of all documents.
* Consultation with a tax lawyer.
What alternative residency options are available?
Since the Golden Visa is no longer available as of 2025, applicants may consider these alternatives:
* Digital Nomad Residence Permit
* Non-Lucrative Residence Permit
* Self-Employed (Autónomo) Permit
Source: https://el-relocator.com/services/golden-visa