What Happened to the Golden Visa Program?
Until recently, non-EU nationals could obtain a residency permit by investing at least €500,000 in Spanish real estate, a program that attracted thousands of applicants, particularly from China, Russia, and Latin America.
However, citing concerns over housing affordability, speculative investments, and pressure on local markets, the Spanish Government officially ended the Golden Visa program linked to real estate purchases on April 3, 2025. Consequently, residency can no longer be obtained solely through property acquisition in Spain.
Raquel Carmona, lawyer at MigratioLex, provided expert insights on the Golden Visa program in a recent article published by the leading Spanish newspaper El País, with a special focus on the Girona region.
Golden Visa en España: MigratioLex aporta su visión en el diario EL PAÍS
Spain Still Welcomes Global Talent and Investment
Spain’s decision to officially eliminate the Golden Visa for real estate investors marks a major shift for thousands of foreigners who had considered relocating by purchasing property. But does this mean Spain is closing its doors to international investors? Absolutely not.
In fact, the Spanish legal system still offers solid, high-level residency alternatives for individuals with strong economic backgrounds, global businesses, or remote-working capabilities. At MigratioLex, we help international clients explore the best options available to live, invest, and thrive in Spain — legally and strategically.
The end of the real estate Golden Visa does not close the door for international investors; rather, it shifts the focus toward new priorities. Spain is now prioritizing:
- Productive investments
- Innovation and entrepreneurship
- Highly skilled professionals
- Remote workers and digital nomads
- Economically self-sufficient residents
With this in mind, here are the best legal alternatives available in 2025:
1. Residence Permit for Business Investment
If you’re planning to:
- Start a business in Spain,
- Invest in an existing Spanish company,
- Contribute significantly to the Spanish economy or job market,
You may qualify for a residence permit for investors or entrepreneurs.
✅ Key Features:
- No minimum investment amount is officially required (though projects must show economic impact).
- Your business can be in tech, logistics, real estate development, health, or sustainability.
- You may apply even if the investment is made through a legal entity.
✅ Ideal for: Experienced entrepreneurs, international investors, startup founders, or family offices with EU expansion plans.
2. Residence for Highly Qualified Professionals
This is an excellent option if:
- You’ve received a job offer from a Spanish company in a managerial, scientific, or technical position.
- You’re being relocated within a multinational company to its Spanish branch.
✅ Key Requirements:
- University degree or at least 3 years of relevant experience.
- Employment contract and salary above national thresholds.
✅ Ideal for: Tech professionals, engineers, executives, and researchers.
Discover how this visa works in our full guide: Highly Qualified Professional Visa.
3. Digital Nomad Visa
Launched in 2023, the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers, freelancers, and online entrepreneurs who want to live in Spain while working for foreign companies or clients.
✅ Key Requirements:
- Proof of remote income from outside Spain (at least ~€2,600/month).
- University degree or at least 3 years of relevant experience.
- You can apply whether you’re employed remotely or self-employed with international clients.
✅ Ideal for: Online business owners, crypto investors, Airbnb managers, stock traders, tech contractors, remote teams.
✅ Discover how this visa works in our full guide: Digital Nomad Visa.
4. Non-Lucrative Visa (Residency Without Work)
This is one of the most classic and underestimated options for individuals with financial means who want to live in Spain without engaging in local employment or business.
✅ Key Requirements:
- Demonstrate stable and sufficient income from pensions, dividends, rental income, or investments (around €2,400/month for the main applicant).
- Rent or own a property in Spain.
- Have full private health insurance.
✅ Ideal for: Retirees, financially independent individuals, remote investors, and families seeking relocation.
✅ Discover how this visa works in our full guide: Non-Lucrative Visa.
Moving to Spain Without the Golden Visa: Smart Strategies for Property Owners and Global Investors
Already Own Property in Spain?
While owning real estate alone is no longer enough to qualify for residency, it can still support other applications — as proof of financial means, ties to the country, or housing availability. Property ownership remains a valuable asset in your overall relocation strategy.
Final Thoughts: Strategic Residency Beyond Real Estate
The end of the Golden Visa for real estate doesn’t mean you’ve lost your chance to live in Spain. In fact, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore strategic, legally secure, and flexible alternatives tailored to your financial profile, lifestyle, and goals.
At MigratioLex, we specialize in helping high-net-worth individuals, digital entrepreneurs, and global families navigate Spain’s immigration system with clarity and confidence.
Want to Move to Spain Without the Golden Visa?
Whether you invest, work remotely, or simply want to enjoy life in Spain, we’re here to help. Let us study your case and design the best legal pathway for your relocation. Contact our legal team today.
