Golden Visa Spain: What Changed After Abolition

Spain abolished new Golden Visa investor residence applications from April 3, 2025. The investor route formerly allowed non-EU nationals to qualify for residence through investments such as €500,000+ in Spanish property, but it is no longer available for new applicants.

The change came through Organic Law 1/2025, which removed the investor residence framework from Spain’s Entrepreneurs Law. Spanish consulates now treat investor visas as abolished from April 3, 2025.

Current Status

Question	Current answer
Can I submit a new Spain Golden Visa application?	No, not after April 3, 2025
Can I buy property in Spain as a foreigner?	Yes, foreign property ownership is still allowed
Does a €500,000 property purchase now grant residence?	No
Are existing Golden Visa holders automatically cancelled?	Existing holders should check renewal and transition options with an immigration lawyer

What Changed

Before abolition, Spain’s investor residence route covered qualifying investments including:

• Real estate purchases of at least €500,000 without financing on the qualifying amount.
• Large investments in Spanish public debt, company shares, funds, or bank deposits.
• Certain business projects considered of general interest.

Those investment routes no longer create a new residence pathway. Buying property may still make sense for lifestyle, rental, or long-term investment reasons, but it should not be treated as a visa strategy.

Alternatives To Consider

Non-Lucrative Visa

The Non-Lucrative Visa is the main route for retirees and financially independent applicants who will not work in Spain.

Digital Nomad Visa

The Digital Nomad Visa may fit remote employees, contractors, and business owners working mainly with non-Spanish clients.

Work Visa

The Work Visa applies when a Spanish employer sponsors the job and the role meets immigration requirements.

Self-Employment Or Business Routes

If you plan to operate a business in Spain, compare the autonomo guide with professional immigration advice. Self-employment and entrepreneur routes are separate from the abolished Golden Visa.

If You Already Hold A Golden Visa

Do not assume your permit, renewal rights, or family members are unaffected without checking your exact status. Existing holders should review:

• Current residence card expiry dates.
• Renewal deadlines and required documentation.
• Whether the underlying investment must be maintained.
• Tax residence consequences if spending significant time in Spain.
• Whether another residence category is a better long-term fit.

Find immigration lawyers for permit-specific advice.

Buying Property After Abolition

Foreigners can still buy Spanish property. The key difference is that property ownership no longer creates a residence permit by itself.

Use the property guides for purchase process, due diligence, and market context:

• Buying Property in Spain
• Housing & Real Estate Guide
• Mallorca Property Market
• Alicante Property Market

Related Guides

• Spain Visa Guide
• Non-Lucrative Visa
• Digital Nomad Visa
• Spanish Taxes for Expats
• NIE Number Application

FAQs

Can I still get a Spain Golden Visa by buying property?

No. New investor residence applications were abolished from April 3, 2025.

Can foreigners still buy property in Spain?

Yes. Spain still allows EU and non-EU citizens to buy property, but the purchase does not automatically grant residence.

What visa should replace the Golden Visa?

It depends on why you are moving. Retirees usually compare the Non-Lucrative Visa, remote workers compare the Digital Nomad Visa, and employees need a work-authorized route.

Should existing Golden Visa holders renew or switch category?

That depends on the permit, expiry date, family situation, and long-term plans. Existing holders should get case-specific immigration advice before a renewal deadline.

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Reviewed May 21, 2026. Primary reference: Spanish consular guidance on investor visa abolition under Organic Law 1/2025.