Since 2013, the Golden Visa has offered international investors the opportunity to obtain a residence permit in Spain in return for significant investment. With over 14,500 visas issued to date, this program has made Spain an attractive destination for non-EU nationals looking to invest in both real estate and other strategic sectors.
The program is now facing a decisive change: from 2025, the issuing of new Golden Visas will be discontinued. Interested parties will therefore only have a limited amount of time to take advantage of this scheme.
What makes the Golden Visa so special?
The Golden Visa gives non-EU citizens legal residence in Spain and indirect access to the benefits of the EU. In addition to the residence permit, the program is considered an attractive option for investors looking to make profitable investments in Spain.
The requirements for the visa include:
- Real estate investments: Purchase of real estate worth at least EUR 500,000.
- Government bonds: Investments of at least two million euros in Spanish government bonds.
- Shareholdings: Purchase of shares or interests in Spanish companies with a value of one million euros or more.
- Company formation: Establishment of a company in Spain that is classified as economically or socially significant.
Why is the Golden Visa being abolished?
In November 2024, the Spanish parliament passed a law that will end the granting of the Golden Visa from 2025. The aim of the measure is to stabilize the real estate market and make access to housing fairer. Critics had long complained that the program encouraged speculation and drove up property prices – especially in sought-after regions such as Mallorca.
The law will come into force before the final approval of the Senate. The exact deadline for the expiry of the program is expected to be 2025.
Act now: Last opportunity until 2025
The imminent abolition of the Golden Visa offers investors one last opportunity to benefit from the previous conditions. For many, this means not only a profitable investment in Spain, but also the chance to secure a residence permit in an EU country.
If you want to use the program, you should hurry – the clock is ticking.