What are the requirements for a Spain Golden Visa?

The Spain Golden Visa, officially known as the Investor Visa, is a popular residence option for non-EU nationals who wish to live, work, and travel freely within Spain and the Schengen Zone. Launched in 2013, this visa program encourages foreign investment in Spain by offering residency rights in exchange for qualifying investments.

Below is a detailed look at the requirements, eligible investments, and other key details you should know before applying.

Who Can Apply for the Spain Golden Visa?

Any non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss national who makes a qualifying investment in Spain can apply for the Golden Visa. Applicants can also include immediate family members in their application, such as a spouse or unmarried partner, dependent children, and dependent parents.

Minimum Investment Requirements

To be eligible, you must make one of the following qualifying investments:

1. Real Estate Investment

   • Purchase real estate in Spain with a minimum value of €500,000 (per applicant).

   • The investment can be in one or multiple properties.

   • The property must be free of debts or mortgages for the first €500,000 — any amount above this can be financed.

2. Capital Investment

   • Invest at least €1 million in shares of Spanish companies.

   • Deposit a minimum of €1 million in a Spanish bank account.

   • Invest €2 million in Spanish government bonds.

3. Business Project

   • Undertake a business project in Spain considered to be of general interest. This means it must:

     • Create jobs.

     • Have significant socio-economic impact.

     • Contribute to technological or scientific innovation.

   • There is no specific minimum investment amount for this option, but the project must be approved by the relevant authorities.

Other General Requirements

In addition to making the qualifying investment, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Have no criminal record in Spain or in any country of residence during the past five years.

• Have full health coverage through public or private health insurance authorized to operate in Spain.

• Have sufficient financial means to support themselves and any accompanying family members.

• Not be listed as undesirable in the territorial space of countries with which Spain has signed an agreement.

How Long is the Golden Visa Valid?

• The initial visa is valid for one year.

• After that, you can apply for a two-year residence permit, renewable every two years as long as you maintain the investment.

• After five years of legal residence, you may apply for permanent residency.

• After ten years, you may become eligible for Spanish citizenship, provided you meet the general naturalization conditions (such as sufficient residence time and integration).

Benefits of the Spain Golden Visa

• Right to live and work in Spain.

• Visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone.

• No minimum stay requirement to renew the visa — but you must visit Spain at least once per year.

• Family members can be included under the same visa.

• Option to apply for permanent residence and citizenship over time.

Final Thoughts

The Spain Golden Visa remains one of the most attractive residency-by-investment programs in Europe. It offers flexibility, travel freedom, and the possibility of a pathway to Spanish citizenship for those who are willing and able to invest in the country’s economy.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa rules and requirements can change. Always consult with a licensed immigration lawyer or authorized advisor before making any investment or visa application.