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Residency by
Investment in Spain

Spain, celebrated for its Mediterranean climate, vibrant culture, rich history, and stable economy, offers a Golden Visa program that grants non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals the right to reside and travel freely within the Schengen area by making a qualifying investment. This initiative provides a strategic opportunity for global investors to establish a foothold in the European Union while enjoying Spain’s renowned quality of life, robust infrastructure, and extensive business networks. Whether through real estate acquisition, capital transfer, or entrepreneurial endeavors, Spain’s Residency by Investment program stands as a reputable gateway to Europe.

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Why Choose Spain?

  • Strategic European Hub:
    As a major EU member, Spain grants straightforward access to European markets. Its modern transportation systems, international airports, and seaports connect residents to a vast array of destinations across Europe and beyond.
  • Stable Economy and Investor-Friendly Environment:
    Spain’s legal framework, investor protections, and supportive government policies foster a secure business environment. The program encourages foreign capital flows, innovation, and entrepreneurship, making Spain an appealing option for both investors and their families.
  • High Quality of Life:
    From world-class healthcare and education to diverse cultural offerings and culinary excellence, Spain consistently ranks among the top places to live globally. Residents enjoy a safe, family-friendly environment, a relaxed lifestyle, and a temperate climate ideal for year-round enjoyment.
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Benefits of Spain Residency

  • EU Schengen Mobility
    Holding a Spanish Golden Visa grants the right to live in Spain and enables short-term travel across the Schengen Area without additional visas. This freedom of movement supports both personal and professional objectives, simplifying European travel and connectivity.
  • Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship
    After maintaining residency for five years, investors can apply for permanent residency in Spain. Subsequently, following a total of 10 years of legal residence, they may be eligible for Spanish citizenship, obtaining full EU rights, including free movement and settlement across all EU member states.
  • Business and Investment Opportunities
    Spain’s diversified economy spans tourism, renewable energy, automotive, technology, and agriculture, providing investors with multiple sectors for growth and portfolio diversification. The country’s extensive network of double-taxation treaties and pro-business policies further optimize the investment climate.
  • Family Inclusion and Lifestyle Enhancements
    The Golden Visa extends to spouses, dependent children, and in some cases dependent parents, ensuring families can settle together in Spain. Benefiting from exceptional healthcare, multilingual education options, and a rich cultural environment, families find Spain a comfortable place to thrive personally and professionally.
  • Minimal Stay Requirements
    Spain’s Golden Visa does not mandate continuous residence. While maintaining the investment, applicants need not spend extended periods in Spain to retain their status. This flexibility permits investors to balance commitments elsewhere while steadily progressing toward long-term residency or citizenship if desired.

Investment Options and Requirements

To qualify for the Spanish Golden Visa, applicants must choose one of the following investment avenues:

  • Real Estate Investment:
    Invest at least EUR 500,000 in one or multiple Spanish properties. Residential, commercial, or a combination of properties are eligible, provided the total meets the minimum threshold free of loans or mortgages (on the initial EUR 500,000 portion).
  • Capital Transfer:
    EUR 1,000,000 minimum deposit in a Spanish bank account
    EUR 1,000,000 in shares of a Spanish company
    EUR 2,000,000 in Spanish government bonds
  • Business Project of General Interest:
    Present a business plan for a project recognized as being of “general interest” to Spain, such as creating employment, supporting scientific/technological innovation, or contributing to regional economic growth. The required amount varies based on the scale and nature of the project, subject to government approval.
  • Financial Transparency:
    Applicants must prove legitimate source of funds and complete the investments as per Spanish regulations.
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Eligibility Criteria

  • Age and Health:
    Applicants must be at least 18 years old. While no strict health requirements apply, maintaining valid health insurance covering Spain is recommended.
  • Clean Criminal Record:
    A clean criminal record is mandatory. Applicants and adult dependents undergo due diligence to ensure the program’s integrity and national security.
  • Dependents
    Family Inclusion:
    Spouses, dependent children (typically under 26 and financially reliant on the applicant), and dependent parents may be included under the same permit. This ensures the entire family can benefit from Spanish residency.
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Application Process

    Step-by-Step Guide

  • Initial Consultation
    Personal Assessment:
    Discuss your goals and circumstances with Citizenship360. We guide you in selecting the most suitable investment route, clarifying documentation and timelines.
  • Documentation Preparation
    Gather Required Paperwork:
    Collect financial statements, police clearances, health insurance, investment contracts, and identity documents. Legalization, notarization, and translations into Spanish may be required.
  • Investment Execution
    Complete the Qualifying Investment:
    Finalize the property purchase, transfer funds to a Spanish bank, invest in government bonds, or register your business project. Ensure full compliance with Spanish laws and confirm property registration or asset acquisition.
  • Submission of Application
    Citizenship360 Submits Your Application:
    We present your complete Golden Visa application to the Spanish authorities, ensuring accuracy and compliance with all guidelines. An initial visa is often issued by the Spanish consulate in the applicant’s home country.
  • Residency Permit Issuance in Spain
    Obtain the Residence Card (TIE):
    After arriving in Spain with your initial visa, you must attend an appointment at a local immigration office to provide biometrics and finalize residency formalities. Upon approval, you receive your residence permit, initially valid for two years.
  • Timeline
    Processing Time:
    Expect several weeks to months from initial consultation to obtaining the residence permit. Timelines vary based on application complexity, documentation readiness, and government workloads.

Cost & Fees

  • Investment Costs
    Real Estate: EUR 500,000 minimum (plus taxes, transfer fees, and legal costs)
    Capital Transfer: EUR 1,000,000 minimum in bank deposits or shares, or EUR 2,000,000 in government bonds
    Business Project: Amount varies; must demonstrate “general interest” approval
  • Additional Expenses
    Government application and issuance fees for main applicant and dependents
    Legal, notarial, and professional advisory services
    Property taxes, notary fees, property registration, and related expenses (if applicable)
    Health insurance premiums and document translation costs

Citizenship360 provides a transparent cost estimate during the initial consultation, ensuring clarity on all associated fees.

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FAQ's

Can I finance the required real estate investment with a mortgage?

The initial EUR 500,000 must be unencumbered by loans. Additional amounts over €500,000 may be financed, but the base threshold must be from unfinanced funds.

Can I include family members after receiving my Golden Visa?

Yes, spouses and eligible dependents can be added later through family reunification procedures, subject to standard documentation and fees.

When can I apply for Spanish citizenship?

After 10 years of legal residence, you may be eligible for citizenship, provided you meet integration, language, and residency requirements. Permanent residency is generally available after 5 years.

Will I be taxed on my global income as a resident?

Spain taxes residents on worldwide income. However, careful tax planning and potentially advantageous tax regimes may mitigate burdens. Seek professional tax advice for personalized guidance.

Must I live in Spain full-time to maintain my permit?

The Golden Visa does not mandate continuous residence. You can renew the permit without extensive time spent in Spain, though long-term residency and citizenship applications typically require presence.

How do I maintain and renew my residency permit?

The initial permit is valid for two years and can be renewed for subsequent 5-year periods, assuming you maintain the qualifying investment and continue to meet the program’s requirements.