For more than a decade, the so-called Golden Visa allowed non-EU nationals who invested in Spain, most often by buying property worth €500,000 or more, to obtain a residence permit for themselves and their families. That route no longer exists.
What changed
Organic Law 1/2025, of 2 January, removed the residence permit for capital investors from Law 14/2013 on support for entrepreneurs. The change took effect on 3 April 2025. Since that date, investing in real estate, public debt, shares or bank deposits no longer gives access to a residence permit in Spain.
What happens to existing permits and pending applications
Under the transitional rules, applications submitted before the reform came into force continue to be processed under the previous regulations, and permits already granted can be renewed under the conditions that applied to them. If you hold an investor permit or had an application in progress, it is worth reviewing your specific situation and renewal dates.
Buying property is still possible
The reform does not prevent anyone from buying property in Spain. Foreign nationals, whether resident or not, can still purchase homes freely. What has disappeared is the link between that investment and the right to reside.
Residence options that remain
- Non-lucrative residence: for people who want to live in Spain without working, who can prove sufficient financial means and have private health insurance.
- International teleworkers (digital nomads): for professionals who work remotely for companies or clients outside Spain.
- Entrepreneurs and highly qualified professionals: the other permits in Law 14/2013 remain in force.
- EU citizens and their families: they do not need a visa and only have to register as residents if they stay for more than three months.
Each option has its own requirements regarding income, insurance, documentation and taxation, and the right choice depends on your nationality, your income and your plans in Spain.
How we can help
Our team handles residence applications, the obtaining, legalisation and notarisation of documents for foreigners, and the purchase of the property itself. Contact us and we will study which route best suits your case.
This article provides general information and reflects the rules in force when it was published. It is not legal advice: every case must be studied individually.
