For years, the Golden Visa was an attractive route for non-EU nationals to obtain residence in Spain through significant investment. Written in February 2025, this article discussed the anticipated removal of the scheme and urged prospective investors to consider the time then available. The original described the legislation as still in progress and estimated that the existing rules might remain available for a further three to five months. These statements are preserved as historical content, not as a description of an application route currently available.
Investment options described in the original article
The article listed investments of at least €2 million in Spanish public debt; €1 million in shares or equity interests in Spanish companies carrying on an actual business; or €1 million in investment funds, venture capital funds or bank deposits with Spanish financial institutions.
It also described the more commonly used property investment route, involving at least €500,000 in real estate in Spain, free of charges or encumbrances for that amount.
A further route concerned business projects of general interest, assessed by reference to job creation, socioeconomic impact in the relevant area, or scientific and technological innovation.
Duration
The article stated that, once approved, the Golden Visa had an initial duration of three years and could be renewed for five-year periods while the qualifying investment conditions remained satisfied.
Benefits described at publication
The original article referred to residence and work in Spain without a continuous residence requirement and described a minimal annual presence requirement. It also mentioned travel within the Schengen Area and family reunification for spouses, minor children, financially dependent children and dependent ascendants. Family applications could be made together with the investor’s application or later.
It further referred to the possibility for certain nationals to apply for Spanish nationality after two years of legal and continuous residence, describing this in connection with dual-nationality arrangements. Individual nationality requirements require separate assessment.
Application process
The article emphasised the complexity of the investment requirements, supporting documents and administrative procedures, particularly for investors dealing with legal and financial systems different from those of their home countries.
It identified the need to meet the legal criteria for each investment route, legalise and obtain sworn translations of documents from other countries, and deal correctly with administrative procedures. Errors could lead to delays or refusal.
The firm’s role
Montelirio Abogados y Asesores Tributarios described its experience assisting with Golden Visa procedures, from reviewing the investment to preparing residence applications. The original highlighted individual attention, knowledge of the legislation and coordination with sworn translators, notaries and other professionals.
This publication remains part of the firm’s archive. The scheme and the applicable transitional arrangements must be checked before considering any current application or renewal.