The Ultimate Guide to Spain's Golden Visa Program: Benefits, Requirements, and Application Process
Spain's Golden Visa program offers foreign investors and their families the opportunity to obtain residency in Spain through a qualifying economic contribution. This guide provides practical and up-to-date information on the program's benefits, requirements, and application process, allowing global citizens outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland to secure legal residence in Spain. Explore Spain's world-class beaches, delectable cuisine, rich culture, and high living standards with the Golden Visa program.
Golden Visa Spain: A Concise Overview
The Spanish Golden Visa, also known as the Spain Investor Visa or Spanish Residence Permit Program, was launched in 2013 to stimulate the Spanish economy and attract foreign investments. This program offers non-EU citizens the opportunity to obtain legal residence in Spain in exchange for making an investment.
While the Golden Visa does not provide immediate Spanish citizenship, it can pave the way for eligibility after ten years of residency. This program grants qualifying individuals a renewable temporary residence permit based on their investment in the country.
Investment options for the Golden Visa include purchasing real estate, investing in Spanish companies, creating employment opportunities, or making a qualifying contribution to government bonds.
Advantages of Applying for the Spanish Golden Visa
The Spanish Golden Visa program has gained significant popularity, particularly among applicants from China, Russia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Brazil, and India. As of 2021, the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration reported the approval of 13,000 Golden Visas.
Key Advantages:
The Spanish Golden Visa offers several advantages that contribute to its appeal. One notable advantage is the absence of a minimum residency requirement in government legislation. Qualified applicants and their family members who meet program requirements can obtain a residence permit by investing at least €500,000 ($546,000) in real estate or €1 million ($1.09 million) in a business, government bonds, or other eligible investments.
Residency and Citizenship Process:
Initially, a one-year residence permit is granted, extendable every five years. Permanent residency can be obtained after five years of residing in Spain. It's important to note that applicants must visit Spain to submit their biometric data.
Pathway to Citizenship:
While living in Spain is not mandatory for obtaining and renewing residence permits, the path to Spanish citizenship requires the investor and their eligible family members to spend at least six months per year in the country for ten consecutive years. Investors must also travel to Spain twice a year, with no more than five and a half to six months between each visit.
General Benefits of the Investor Visa:
The Spanish Golden Visa offers numerous benefits, including:
- Visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area.
- Establishing a "safe haven" in times of economic or political instability.
- The right to work and conduct business in Spain.
- Family residency plans, allowing spouses and children under 18 to obtain residence permits.
- Access to high-quality education and healthcare in Spain.
- Easy renewal process with only two visits to Spain per year.
- Fast processing time, with the residence permit often granted within 60 days.
- Eligibility for EU citizenship after ten years of residency.
Spanish Citizenship and Passport:
Obtaining Spanish citizenship and a passport is a desired outcome for many Golden Visa holders. With a Spanish passport, individuals gain visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 173 countries, as per the Global Passport Index. Spanish passport holders also have the right to study, work, and live in any EU member state.
Citizenship can be obtained through naturalization after ten years of maintaining the residence permit. Applicants must demonstrate that they have resided in Spain for at least six months every year during that period. Once permanent residency or citizenship is acquired, there is no further requirement for Golden Visa renewals, and the investment can be disbanded.
Eligibility Criteria for the Golden Visa in Spain
Primary Applicant Requirements:
- Age: The primary applicant must be over 18 years of age.
- Financial Investment: The primary applicant must make a significant investment as stipulated by the Spanish government and provide proof of the respective financial investment.
- Clean Criminal Record: Applicants must possess a clean criminal record.
- Undesirable List: Applicants must not be on the nation's list of undesirable people.
- Medical Insurance: Applicants must have valid medical insurance coverage and an official health certificate.
- Visa Refusals: Applicants must not have previously been refused visas or entry into the Schengen zone.
- Financial Stability: Applicants must have sufficient funds to sustain themselves while they reside in Spain.
Residency Requirements:
- Duration: If the primary applicant and their family decide to live in Spain, they become eligible for permanent residency after five years.
- Residency Conditions: The primary applicant must demonstrate that they did not spend more than a total of eleven months outside of Spain within those five years.
Family Members Eligible for the Golden Visa in Spain:
- Spouse: The spouse of the primary applicant can be included in the application for the Golden Visa.
- Children: Children under the age of 18 can be included in the application.
- Dependent Family Members: Dependent family members can be included if the primary applicant presents financial proof that they are dependent or have a health condition that makes them unable to provide for themselves.
Investment Options under the Spanish Golden Visa Scheme:
The Spain investment visa scheme provides flexible investment options to qualifying investors. The most common investment option chosen is real estate investment. However, there are other options available, and regardless of the chosen route, the investment must be maintained for a minimum period of five years to retain the residence permit.
Real Estate Investment:
- Purchasing residential, commercial, or industrial properties in Spain with a minimum investment amount as stipulated by the Spanish government.
- The real estate investment option provides easy access to the European Union and offers investors and their families a residential home in the Mediterranean.
Capital Shares Investment:
- Investing in Spanish companies, either through the acquisition of shares or through other means, with a minimum investment amount as specified by the Spanish government.
It is important to note that the specific investment amounts and requirements may vary and should be verified with the Spanish authorities or an immigration lawyer specializing in the Golden Visa program in Spain.
Investment Options under the Spain Golden Visa Program
The Spain Golden Visa Program offers several investment options for foreign investors seeking residency in Spain. By making a qualifying investment, individuals and their families can obtain a Golden Visa, which grants them the right to live, work, and study in Spain, and provides a pathway to Spanish citizenship. Here are the investment options available under the program:
Real Estate Investment:
One of the most popular investment options is to purchase commercial and/or residential real estate in Spain. The minimum investment threshold for this option is €500,000 ($546,000). The investment must be made in a property that is located in Spain and registered with the Land Registry. This investment can be in the form of one or multiple properties.
Spanish Public Debt Securities:
Investors can choose to invest a minimum of €2 million ($2.18 million) in Spanish public debt securities, such as government bonds. This investment option provides a secure and low-risk avenue for obtaining the Golden Visa.
Stocks, Shares, or Bank Deposits:
Another investment option is to invest at least €1 million ($1.09 million) in stocks or shares of companies operating in Spain, Spanish investment funds, venture capital funds, or in bank deposits in Spanish financial institutions. This option allows investors to diversify their investment portfolio and potentially benefit from the growth of the Spanish economy.
Business Investment:
Investors also have the opportunity to start a business in Spain and obtain the Golden Visa by making a minimum investment of €1 million. The business must generate employment, contribute to technological and/or scientific innovation, and have a strong socio-economic impact. This option encourages foreign entrepreneurs to bring their expertise and investments to Spain, fostering economic growth and job creation.
Tax Considerations:
When considering the Spain Golden Visa Program, it is important to take into account the tax implications. Here are some key tax considerations:
Foreign Income Tax:
Investors who become residents of Spain for more than 183 days in any given year will be subject to taxation on their worldwide income. It is essential to understand and comply with the tax obligations in Spain if you decide to take advantage of the Golden Visa program.
Personal Income Tax (PIT):
Non-residents are subject to a 24 percent tax rate on income earned from employment or business activities conducted in Spain. This tax applies to individuals who are not considered tax residents of Spain but generate income from Spanish sources.
Capital Gains Tax:
Non-residents are subject to capital gains tax on financial investment income and capital gains derived from Spanish sources. The tax rates vary based on the amount of income or gain. The rates range from 19 percent for amounts up to €6,000 ($6,550) to 26 percent for amounts exceeding €200,000. This tax also applies to profits generated from the sale of property.
Property Tax:
Property owners in Spain are required to pay an annual property tax. The tax rate typically ranges from 0.4 percent to 1.3 percent, depending on the type and location of the property. It is important to consider this ongoing tax obligation when investing in real estate in Spain.
Understanding and planning for these tax obligations is crucial for investors considering the Spain Golden Visa Program. Seeking advice from tax professionals or legal experts with knowledge of the Spanish tax system can help ensure compliance and optimize tax planning strategies.
Application Process for the Golden Visa
The first step in the application process for the Golden Visa is to purchase real estate property in Spain with a minimum value of €500,000. This investment can be made in residential, commercial, or industrial properties. The property can be in the name of the applicant or through an EU company that is fully owned by the applicant.
Receive Initial Golden Visa:
Once the real estate property is purchased, the applicant will automatically receive a multiple-entry initial Golden Visa. This visa is valid for one year and allows the applicant to enter and stay in Spain for a specified period.
Visit Spain for Residence Permit:
Within the one-year validity of the initial Golden Visa, the applicant must personally visit Spain to apply for the two-year initial residence permit. This permit is conditional upon the investment in the real estate property still being in place. The applicant must ensure that they fulfill all the requirements for the residence permit application.
Maintain Investment:
To maintain the Golden Visa and residence permit, it is crucial for the applicant to keep the real estate investment intact throughout the visa period. Selling the property before the completion of the visa duration may lead to the revocation of the Golden Visa and the residence permit.
Renewal of the Golden Visa:
The Golden Visa needs to be renewed periodically to maintain the applicant's legal residence in Spain. The applicant must personally visit Spain within the validity period of the visa to renew it. It is important to stay updated with the renewal requirements and ensure compliance with all necessary procedures and documentation.
Countries that enjoy fast-track to citizenship privileges include:
- Mexico
- Peru
- Argentina
- Philippines
- Cuba
- Bolivia
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- El Salvador
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Venezuela
- Panama
- Paraguay
Fast-Track Citizenship Process:
In certain cases, applicants from former Spanish colonies may be eligible for Spain's fast-track citizenship process. This process allows for a quicker route to citizenship, with specific minimum stay requirements. These requirements include traveling to Spain every two and a half to three months or a total of eight times within a period of 730 days. The applicant must ensure that none of the trips to Spain last longer than three consecutive months.
Assistance from Global Citizen Solutions:
Navigating the application process for the Golden Visa can be complex and time-consuming. Applicants can seek assistance from specialized firms like Global Citizen Solutions, who can provide guidance and manage the entire application process on behalf of the applicant. Their team of specialists can offer valuable support and ensure a smooth and efficient application process.
It is essential for applicants to stay updated with the latest immigration regulations and requirements set by the Spanish authorities. Consulting with immigration professionals or legal advisors can provide further clarity and assistance throughout the application process for the Golden Visa.
Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide to the Golden Visa Application
Decide on an Investment Route:
The first step in applying for a Golden Visa is to decide on the investment route you want to take. There are two main options: real estate investment or capital investment. Real estate investment requires purchasing a property in Spain with a minimum value, while capital investment involves making a certain financial investment in Spanish companies or projects.
Make the Qualifying Financial Investment:
Once you have decided on your investment route, you need to make the qualifying financial investment. This may involve purchasing a property in Spain or making a capital investment as per the requirements set by the Spanish government. It is essential to have all the necessary documentation related to your investment translated into Spanish or English and legalized according to the Spanish government's standards.
Prepare Your Documents:
Before applying for the Golden Visa, you need to gather and prepare all the required documents. These typically include:
- Property Registry Filing certificate or notarized deeds: If you choose the real estate investment route, you will need to provide a Property Registry Filing certificate or notarized deeds of the property you have purchased, along with proof that the deeds have been submitted to the Property Registry.
- Additional Required Documents: Apart from the property-related documents, you will need to provide other necessary documents such as a valid passport, medical insurance, proof of financial means to support yourself and your family, a clean criminal record certificate, and evidence of the investment made.
- Notarized and Translated Documents: It is important to have all the required documents notarized and translated into Spanish or English by an authorized translator.
Fill Out the Application:
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can proceed to fill out the Golden Visa application. You will need to submit the completed application form, along with the required supporting documents, to the Spanish Consulate or Embassy in your home country. It is important to pay the government application fee at this stage.
Book an Interview:
After submitting your application, you will need to book an interview at the Spanish Consulate or Embassy. This interview is conducted to verify the authenticity of your documents and assess your eligibility for the Golden Visa. Make sure to bring all the original documents and their copies to the interview.
Attend the Interview:
On the scheduled date, attend the interview at the Spanish Consulate or Embassy. Be prepared to answer questions about your investment, provide additional information if required, and undergo biometric data collection, such as fingerprints.
Open a Spanish Bank Account and Obtain NIE:
Following the approval of your Golden Visa application, you will need to open a Spanish bank account and obtain a NIE (Foreigner's Identification Number). A bank account and NIE make it easier to conduct business and personal affairs in Spain.
Issuance of Golden Visa:
Once you have completed the necessary steps and fulfilled all the requirements, your residence permit, known as the Golden Visa, will be issued. The initial residence permit is usually valid for one year. It is important to renew your residence permit at the end of the second year and then become a permanent resident in the fifth year.
Citizenship Application:
After holding the Golden Visa for ten years, you become eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship. Upon successful citizenship application, you will receive a Spanish passport, granting you full citizenship rights.
It is important to note that the process and requirements for the Golden Visa application may vary, and it is advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or seek guidance from the relevant Spanish authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Golden Visa Spain: Processing Time
MONTHS 1-2: Preparation Time
Clients who are interested in obtaining a Golden Visa for Spain begin by considering the best investment option that suits their needs. Spain offers various investment options, such as real estate, capital transfer, job creation, and government bonds. During this stage, clients gather information, consult with legal advisors, and select the investment option that aligns with their objectives.
Once the investment option is chosen, the next step is the preparation and submission of an application for the Schengen Visa. This visa allows individuals to travel to Spain and stay for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. The application process involves providing the necessary documentation, such as a valid passport, financial statements, proof of accommodation, and travel insurance.
Upon arrival in Spain, the applicant is required to submit biometric data, including fingerprints and photos. This step usually takes place at a designated visa application center or embassy.
AFTER 20 DAYS: Processing Time
After the submission of the application, the Spanish authorities review and assess the submitted documents. The processing time for the Golden Visa application is generally around 20 days. During this period, the authorities verify the eligibility of the applicant, conduct background checks, and evaluate the investment made.
If the application meets all the requirements and is approved, the applicant will receive a two-year residency permit, commonly known as the Golden Visa. This permit allows the holder to live and work in Spain, as well as travel freely within the Schengen Area.
YEAR 2: Renewal Application
The Golden Visa is initially granted for a period of two years. Therefore, right before the expiration of the two-year residency permit, the visa holder must go to Spain and renew their application. The renewal process involves demonstrating that the initial investment has been maintained or increased. This can be achieved by providing evidence of property ownership, bank statements, employment contracts, or other relevant documentation.
The renewal application ensures that the visa holder continues to meet the requirements for the Golden Visa and maintains their legal status in Spain. Once the renewal application is approved, the visa holder will receive an extended residency permit, typically for an additional two years.
YEAR 10: Apply for Citizenship
After holding the Golden Visa for ten years, the visa holder becomes eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship. The citizenship application process requires meeting additional criteria, such as demonstrating sufficient knowledge of the Spanish language and culture. It also involves renouncing any previous citizenships if necessary, as Spain generally does not allow dual citizenship.
Upon successful completion of the citizenship application process, the applicant becomes a Spanish citizen, granting them the right to live, work, and enjoy the benefits of being a citizen of Spain.
Important Information:
- The processing time of 20 days mentioned above is an approximate timeframe and may vary depending on individual circ*mstances and the workload of the Spanish authorities.
- It is crucial to consult with immigration lawyers or experts who specialize in Golden Visa applications to ensure compliance with all the requirements and to navigate the process smoothly.
- Throughout the entire process, it is essential to maintain accurate records of all investments, transactions, and documentation to support the application and renewal processes.
- The Spanish government reserves the right to modify the requirements and processing times associated with the Golden Visa program, so it is advisable to stay updated with the latest regulations.
Essential Documents for the Golden Visa Application in Spain
When applying for a Golden Visa in Spain, there are several essential documents that applicants need to submit. These documents are required for both the initial application and each renewal. It is important to note that additional documents may also be required, so it is advisable to check with the nearest Spanish Embassy or Consulate for further clarification.
Here is a detailed list of the essential documents for the Golden Visa application in Spain:
1. Completed Application Form
- Applicants must fill out the application form accurately and completely.
2. Passport
- Original and a copy of a passport that is valid for at least one year.
- The passport must have at least two blank pages for the visa.
3. Photograph
- One recent, passport-size, colored photograph with a white background.
4. Medical Insurance
- Original and a photocopy of valid medical insurance.
- The insurance can be either public health insurance or private health insurance provided by an insurance company licensed to operate in Spain.
5. Medical Certificate
- Original and a photocopy of a medical certificate.
- The certificate must be issued no more than 90 days before the appointment date.
- It should include the letterhead and original signature and/or stamp from a doctor.
- If required, an original translation and a photocopy of the translation should also be provided.
6. Criminal Record Certificate
- Certified copy of the applicant's criminal record certificate from their country of origin.
- The certificate must cover the behavior of the applicant over the past five years.
- It should be issued no more than 90 days before submitting the application and be valid for three months after the date of issuance.
- For all applicants except Singaporean nationals, the certificate must be legalized by the Spanish Consulate/Embassy in their country.
7. Visa Fee Proof
- Proof of payment of the visa fee in the local currency (Euros).
- Please note that the fee is subject to regular changes due to currency fluctuations.
8. Proof of Lawful Residence
- Proof of lawful residence in the consular district where the applicant is residing.
9. Legal Representative's Identity and Capacity
- If the application is submitted through a legal representative, proof of their identity and capacity must be provided.
- This includes an original and a copy of their identity document or passport, as well as proof of their power of attorney or any document accrediting their representation.
Financial Guarantee:
To meet the financial requirements for the Golden Visa, the primary applicant must show proof of sufficient financial means for the next two years. This amount is equal to €2,130 ($2,325) per month, with an additional €532 ($580) for each dependent person under their charge who is also acquiring a residence visa. The financial guarantee can be provided as follows:
10. Bank Statements
- Original and photocopy of savings or current account bank statements for at least 12 months.
- The statements should showcase bank deposits and transactions, and the account holder's name must be stated on each document.
Documents Required for Applicant Family Members:
In addition to the general documents mentioned above, specific documents are required for family members applying for the Golden Visa:
11. Marriage Certificate
- If the spouse applies with the primary applicant, a marriage certificate must be provided.
- If the certificate is not issued in the United Arab Emirates, it must be legalized by the Spanish Consulate in the country of issuance.
- If the certificate is in a language other than English or Spanish, it must be officially translated into Spanish or English, with the translation certified by the Spanish Consulate in the country of issuance.
12. Birth Certificates
- If children apply, birth certificates must be provided, along with the same certification requirements as mentioned for the marriage certificate.
- If the children are over 18, a medical statement proving their dependency should also be included.
Documents Required for Real Estate Buyers:
For Golden Visa applicants who are purchasing real estate in Spain, the following additional documents are required:
13. Proof of Purchase
- Proof showing that the property has been purchased at least 90 days before the visa application is submitted.
14. Property Registry Filing Certificate or Notarized Deeds
- Documents proving that the real estate deeds have been submitted to the Property Registry.
Documents Required for Capital Investors:
For Golden Visa applicants under the capital investment route, the following documents are required:
15. Proof of Investment
- Proof of a substantial investment worth at least €2 million in Spanish bonds, or at least €1 million in the acquisition of shares of Spanish companies, or bank deposits worth at least €1 million in Spanish banks.
- Proof that the investment has been made no more than 60 days before the application is submitted.
16. Justification of Investments
- Depending on the type of investment made, specific documents are required to justify the investments, including certificates from relevant authorities or banks.
Legalizing Documents:
Any document issued by a government authority needs to be legalized with the Apostille of the Hague in order to be used in the Golden Visa application. Examples of documents that may require legalization include criminal record background checks, marriage certificates, and birth certificates.
Translating Documents:
All documents and certificates not originally in Spanish must be translated by a Sworn Spanish translator certified by the Government of Spain. However, a translation is not necessary if the document is already available in English or Spanish.
Opening a Spanish Bank Account and Obtaining an NIE Number:
To facilitate various legal and official activities in Spain, it is recommended to open a Spanish bank account and obtain an NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) number. The NIE is a Spanish identification and tax number given to foreigners. It is required for activities such as opening bank accounts, signing employment contracts, filing tax returns, buying or selling real estate, and more.
Obtaining an NIE number typically accompanies the Spanish residency permit for non-EU citizens. The NIE number is necessary for a wide range of transactions and legal processes in Spain, simplifying administrative procedures and ensuring compliance with tax and legal requirements.
In conclusion, the Golden Visa application in Spain requires the submission of various essential documents, including passport, medical insurance, financial statements, criminal record certificate, proof of investment, and other supporting documents depending on the applicant's specific situation. It is crucial to carefully review the requirements and seek guidance from the Spanish Embassy or Consulate to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
Government Fees for the Golden Visa Program
The Golden Visa Program in Spain offers a pathway for non-European Union (EU) citizens to obtain residency in the country by making certain investments. However, there are government fees associated with the program that applicants need to consider. It is important to note that these fees are subject to change based on currency fluctuations and any updates made by the Spanish government. As of the knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the fees for the Golden Visa Program were as follows:
Business Investments:
- Cost: €1,137 ($1,240) If an applicant chooses to invest in a business in Spain, the government charges a fee of €1,137. This fee is applicable for the initial application and is subject to change.
Real Estate and Capital Investments:
- Cost: €1,910 ($2,083) Applicants who decide to invest in real estate or capital in Spain are required to pay a fee of €1,910. This fee is also applicable for the initial application and may vary over time.
Additional Family Members:
- Cost: €1,202 ($1,311) If an applicant wants to include additional family members in their Golden Visa application, such as a spouse or children, the Spanish government charges an extra fee of €1,202 per person. This fee applies to each family member included in the application and is subject to change.
In addition to the government fees mentioned above, there are also legal costs associated with the Golden Visa Program. These costs cover the services provided by immigration lawyers or legal advisors and are separate from the government fees. The legal costs for the Golden Visa Program are generally as follows:
- For a single applicant: €8,000 ($8,730)
- For a family of four (initial application): €10,500 ($11,450)
- For each renewal: €2,500 ($2,730)
These legal costs are estimates and may vary depending on the complexity of the application, the number of family members included, and the legal service provider chosen. It is advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or legal advisor to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding the legal costs.
FAQ
What is the Spain Golden Visa program?
The Spain Golden Visa program is a residency by investment program established by the Spanish government in 2013. It allows non-EU investors to obtain a temporary residency permit in Spain by making capital or real estate investments.
How long does the Spain Golden Visa last?
The Spain Golden Visa process involves two steps. First, you need to obtain a visa from a Spanish Consulate or Embassy, which allows you to travel to Spain with multiple entries and exits for one year. Within that year, you must go to Spain and apply for a residency permit in person.
The initial residency permit is valid for two years. After that, it can be renewed every five years as long as you own properties in Spain. You do not have to reside in Spain to renew your residency permit.
If you want permanent residency or citizenship, you must live in Spain for at least five years to acquire permanent residence or ten years to obtain Spanish citizenship.
Can I apply for Spanish citizenship with a Golden Visa?
Yes, the Spain Golden Visa program can be a pathway to Spanish citizenship. Once you make a qualifying investment in Spain and meet the program's requirements, you become eligible for citizenship, typically after ten years of residency.
Is there a fast-track option for Spanish citizenship?
Certain nationals from former Spanish colonies may be eligible for a fast-track route to Spanish citizenship. In this case, you can obtain an EU passport in just two years. However, you must fulfill specific conditions, including meeting the minimum stay requirement and passing a language exam.
Can I work in Spain with a Golden Visa?
Yes, the Golden Visa allows the holder to work and live in Spain.
When does the Golden Visa validity period begin?
The two-year validity of the Spanish Golden Visa starts counting from the day the visa is issued.
What is the financial guarantee requirement for the Golden Visa?
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient income or savings to live in Spain. This can be shown through a considerable balance of funds in your account, rather than relying solely on monthly income statements.
What is the cost of the Spain Golden Visa for citizenship?
The cost of the Spain Golden Visa depends on the investment option you choose. For the real estate visa option, you need to purchase real estate with a minimum value of €500,000 ($546,000). You can invest in multiple properties, either residential or commercial.
Alternatively, you can make a bank deposit of at least €1 million ($1.09 million) or invest €1 million in shares of Spanish businesses. Another option is to contribute €2 million ($2.18 million) in public debt securities.
How can I obtain permanent residence in Spain?
To be granted permanent residence in Spain, you must have legally and effectively lived in the country for five years. This means not being abroad for more than six consecutive months or exceeding a total of ten months of absence from Spain during each year.
Do you obtain residency by buying property in Spain?
Yes, purchasing real estate in Spain with a value of at least €500,000 ($546,000) automatically grants you the right to apply for Spanish residency.
What are the property options for the Spain Golden Visa?
There are no limitations on the number or type of properties you can purchase. As long as the total investment in real estate meets or exceeds €500,000 ($546,000), you qualify for residency. You can choose residential, commercial, or a combination of both property types.
The properties can also be leased, and multiple investors can combine their investments into a single property. Any amount exceeding the minimum investment can be financed through a bank mortgage.
Can I buy properties using a mix of personal funds and bank loans?
Yes, as long as you invest €500,000 ($546,000) of your own funds, you can finance the rest through a bank loan. For example, if you buy a property worth €1 million ($1.09 million), you can use €500,000 of your own funds and obtain a mortgage for the remaining €500,000.
Is it possible to obtain a Spanish passport?
If you meet the government's criteria, including residing in Spain for ten years and following the necessary legal steps to acquire Spanish nationality, you may be eligible for a Spanish passport.
How long can I stay in Spain with a Golden Visa?
With a Golden Visa, you can choose to reside indefinitely in Spain. After ten years of residence, you become eligible for an EU passport, which means you no longer require a passport or need to submit a Schengen visa application to visit countries within the Schengen Area.
Does Spain offer a Golden Visa?
Yes, Spain has a Golden Visa program that allows foreign investors to obtain residency rights in exchange for a significant investment in the country's economy.
What does a Spanish Golden Visa provide?
The Spanish Golden Visa provides full residency rights in Spain, granting access to the Schengen Area and other EU countries. It enables you to live and work in Spain, access the national healthcare system, and more.
