Golden Visa Spain - Real Estate Route Ends - What Remains

Spain officially scrapped the popular real estate option under its Golden Visa program on April 3, 2025. This change means you can no longer gain Spanish residency just by buying a property worth €500,000. But the program itself isn’t dead — several investment routes are still open. Here’s what you can still do if you want to secure residency in Spain through investment.

Spain Ends the Property Route of the Golden Visa in 2025

Spain’s government eliminated the real estate route under the Golden Visa law, aiming to curb speculative demand and housing inflation. From this date forward, buying property alone no longer qualifies you for a Spanish residency visa. Any pending applications submitted before that date may still be valid.

Golden Visa 2025: What Changed in the Law on April 3?

The real estate pathway has been removed, but the Golden Visa framework remains active for specific high-value investment categories. Investors can still qualify — but the bar is now higher and focused on economic contribution rather than property acquisition.

Golden Visa 2025: Investment Options That Still Qualify

As of mid-2025, these are the valid routes for securing residency through investment:

Capital Investment in Spanish Companies (€1 Million Minimum)

You can invest in Spanish companies, including listed firms or startups, provided the investment meets documentation and fund-origin requirements.

€1 Million Bank Deposit Route

A fixed deposit held in a Spanish financial institution for the legally required term qualifies under the capital investment route.

€2 Million Investment in Spanish Government Bonds

Long-term Spanish treasury bond purchases remain a valid Golden Visa path and appeal to conservative investors.

Entrepreneur Route: Business of “General Interest”

There is no fixed minimum, but your business must create jobs, innovate, or contribute to the Spanish economy. Approval depends on a detailed business plan reviewed by the Spanish Economic and Commercial Office.

Fast-Track Residency Under Law 14/2013 (Highly Skilled Workers)

For executives or specialists transferred by multinational companies. This is technically separate from the Golden Visa but is often used as an alternative for high-level professionals.

Can You Still Get a Golden Visa Through Property in Spain?

Yes — you can still purchase property in Spain. But property no longer qualifies you for a Golden Visa. Buying a home now only helps with alternative residency visas.

Best Alternatives to the Golden Visa for Property Buyers

If your plan was to obtain residency by purchasing a home, these visas are the most common alternatives:

Non-Lucrative Visa (Most Popular for Retirees)

Suitable for those with passive income and no intention of working in Spain.

Digital Nomad Visa (For Remote Workers)

Popular among Canadians, Americans, and Europeans working for companies abroad.

Entrepreneur Visa (If Starting a New Business)

Ideal for investors launching new ventures aligned with Spanish economic priorities.

Golden Visa Timeline, Costs, and Practical Considerations

The Golden Visa remains one of the fastest Spanish residency routes, with priority processing, multi-year permits, and flexible travel privileges. However, capital requirements are now significantly higher, and documentation must be flawless, particularly regarding the origin of funds.

Summary: How to Move to Spain After the Golden Visa Reform

The end of the real estate option is a major shift — but Spain still welcomes investors. If you’re willing to invest €1–2 million into Spanish companies, government bonds, or a high-impact business, you still have a clear path to residency in 2025.

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