Acquiring A Golden Visa in Spain

For international investors, the allure of Spain isn’t just its sunny beaches and rich culture—its Golden Visa Program (Investor Visa) offers a gateway to European residency. This unique visa allows non-EU citizens to live, travel, and invest freely in Spain and other Schengen Area member states. Whether you’re considering purchasing property, starting a business, or investing in Spain’s economy, the Golden Visa is an enticing option.

At Property and Legal Services (PALS), we specialise in helping clients turn this dream into reality by navigating the complex legal process with ease and confidence. Here, we’ll walk you through what a Golden Visa is, its benefits, the requirements, and how PALS can simplify the process so you can focus on your future in Spain.

What Is a Golden Visa?

Spain’s Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program established under the “Law of Entrepreneurs.” This law allows non-EU citizens (including their families) to obtain a residence permit in Spain by making a qualifying investment. With a Golden Visa, you and your family gain the right to reside in Spain while enjoying greater freedom to travel within Europe.

But this visa isn’t just about staying in Spain and enjoying locations such as Xàtiva or Valencia—it’s the ticket to a truly international lifestyle. It allows visa holders to travel freely across 26 of the member states in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 6-month period.

Benefits of Spain’s Golden Visa

Acquiring a Golden Visa offers peace of mind, flexibility, and opportunities for your entire family. Here are some of the most notable benefits:

Residency Without Relocation – You aren’t required to live in Spain full-time to maintain your Golden Visa. Spending less than 183 days a year in Spain also means you avoid becoming a Spanish tax resident.
Family Coverage – The visa extends to your dependent family members, including your spouse/partner, children under 18, economically dependent adult children, and even dependent parents (with proper documentation).
European Travel Freedom – Golden Visa holders enjoy the ability to travel freely across Schengen Area countries, streamlining travel for business or pleasure.
Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship – After five years of maintaining your Golden Visa, you can apply for permanent residency in Spain. After ten years, you may also be eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship (subject to additional requirements).
Tax Flexibility – If you maintain your stay in Spain under 183 days annually, you won’t be taxed on your worldwide income. However, there may be local taxes, such as property taxes, depending on your investment.

Golden Visa Requirements

While the Golden Visa offers a range of enticing benefits, such as residency in a foreign country and potential pathways to citizenship, it also comes with strict eligibility criteria that can vary by country. Understanding these requirements is crucial before applying. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to qualify:

General Requirements:

You must not already be a resident of Spain or an EU citizen.
You must be over 18 years of age.
You cannot be living in Spain illegally.
You must have no criminal record in Spain or elsewhere for the last five years.
Sufficient financial means to support yourself and your family—at least €27,000 annually for a single applicant (plus €7,000 for each family member).
Spanish health insurance coverage (public or private).

Qualifying Investments:

To qualify for the Golden Visa, you must meet one of the following investment thresholds:

Purchase real estate worth €500,000 or more.
Invest €1 million in shares of Spanish companies or a Spanish investment fund.
Deposit €1 million into a Spanish bank.
Invest €2 million in Spanish public debt.
Develop an entrepreneurial project recognised as being in Spain’s general economic interest (must meet job creation, innovation, or socio-economic impact criteria).

Required Documentation:

Valid passport
Proof of investment (such as title deeds or bank statements)
Proof of health insurance
Proof of sufficient financial means
Police clearance certificate (showing no prior criminal record)
Foreigner’s Identification Number (NIE) in Spain

At PALS, we guide you in gathering, registering, and reviewing these essential documents to ensure a smooth application process.

Why Work with PALS?

PALS simplifies the complex process of acquiring a Golden Visa in Spain. Our bilingual solicitors provide clear guidance on regulations, handle documentation, and offer expert advice on property and investment options. Our family-focused approach ensures dependents are included, and we streamline legal procedures for a smooth application process. With PALS, you can confidently navigate one of Europe’s top investment visa programs.

Begin Your Golden Visa Journey Today

Securing a Spanish Golden Visa is not just an investment in Spain, but an investment in your freedom and family’s future. With PALS, you gain a trusted partner committed to simplifying the process, minimising stress, and achieving the life you’re dreaming of in Spain.

If you’re ready to begin your Golden Visa application, contact PALS today. Our tailored, multilingual services ensure that you have everything you need at your fingertips for a hassle-free experience.