Significant Changes in Spanish Immigration Policies: What Expats Need to Know

As of 2025, Spain has introduced a series of significant updates to its immigration policies, which are set to impact both current and prospective expats. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key changes and how they might affect you.

End of the Golden Visa Program

One of the most notable changes is the abolition of the Golden Visa program, which has been a popular route for non-EU nationals to gain residency in Spain through property investment. The program, launched in 2013, allowed investors to obtain residency by investing at least €500,000 in Spanish property. However, due to concerns that this program has contributed to rising housing costs, the Spanish government has decided to end it. The last date for submitting new Golden Visa applications is April 3, 2025. Existing visas can still be renewed, but no new applications will be accepted after this date[2][4].

New Property Tax Proposals

In addition to ending the Golden Visa program, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has proposed a new tax policy aimed at non-EU buyers. The plan includes a potential 100% tax on properties purchased by non-EU residents, or even an outright ban on such purchases. This move is intended to make housing more affordable for local residents and mitigate the impact of foreign speculation on the housing market[2][4].

Faster Processing for Residency Applications

On a more positive note, the Spanish government is committed to streamlining the processing times for residency applications. Specifically, applications under the arraigo (Spanish roots) and family reunification programs will now be resolved within 3-6 months, a significant improvement from previous delays. The digitalization of procedures will also allow more applications to be completed online, reducing the need for in-person appointments[1].

Updates to Citizenship Applications

Spain has also clarified and modified the requirements for citizenship applications. For those seeking citizenship by residency, descent, or marriage, there are several key changes: - Streamlined Documentation for Descendants of Spaniards: Applicants no longer need to provide redundant certifications if their family lineage is already registered in Spain. - New Language Test Exemptions: Citizens of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, and Sephardic Jews are now exempt from the DELE A2 Spanish language test if they can prove long-term residence or educational qualifications in Spanish-speaking institutions. - Transparent Application Tracking: Citizenship applications can now be tracked more transparently via the Ministry of Justice’s online platform[1].

Simplified Work Visa Categories

To address labor shortages in key sectors such as healthcare, technology, and agriculture, Spain has introduced simplified work visa categories. These include: - Sector-Specific Visas: Prioritizing professions in high demand, such as healthcare workers, who can now fast-track their visa applications with fewer administrative hurdles. - Digital Nomad Visa Enhancements: The digital nomad visa, introduced in 2023, has been updated to allow remote workers to renew their visas every two years instead of annually, with a slightly lowered income threshold[1].

Stricter Residency Renewal Requirements

While initial residency applications have become more efficient, the requirements for residency renewals have become stricter. Applicants must now provide more robust evidence of income or financial resources, particularly for non-lucrative visas. Additionally, foreign nationals must document that they have not spent excessive periods outside Spain to renew their long-term residency permits[1].

Addressing Backlogs in the Oath of Allegiance

The process for completing the jura de nacionalidad (oath of allegiance) has faced significant delays, especially in cities like Madrid and Barcelona. To address this, the government has pledged to increase staffing in Civil Registry offices and launch a pilot program for scheduling jura appointments online, aiming to expedite the final steps for citizenship applicants[1].

New Legal Resources for Denied Applications

For applicants whose residency or citizenship applications are denied, there are now clearer avenues to appeal. These include the ability to file appeals through the new immigration portal, ensuring faster response times, and extended deadlines for administrative and judicial appeals[1].

Impact on Expats and Property Owners

The end of the Golden Visa program and the proposed tax changes are likely to have significant implications for expats and property owners. British retirees and other non-EU nationals looking to relocate to Spain may need to explore alternative visa options, such as the non-lucrative visa, which requires full-time residency and does not allow remote work in Spain[2].

In conclusion, these updates reflect Spain’s efforts to balance its socio-economic goals with the needs of foreign nationals. While some changes may present challenges, others offer streamlined processes and clearer pathways for those seeking to live, work, or invest in Spain. It is crucial for expats to stay informed and act promptly to navigate these new policies effectively.