The Spain Golden Visa program is a residency by investment program that was established in 2013. The program allows non-EU nationals to obtain a residency permit in Spain by making a significant investment in Spanish property.
The Golden Visa program has been very popular since its launch, and it has helped to attract billions of euros in investment to Spain. In 2022, over 10,000 Golden Visas were granted, making Spain the most popular Golden Visa destination in the world.
Benefits of the Spain Golden Visa
There are a number of benefits to obtaining a Spain Golden Visa, including:
- Free movement within the Schengen Area:ย The Schengen Area is a group of 26 European countries that have abolished passport controls at their common borders. This means that Golden Visa holders can travel freely between these countries without having to go through passport control.
- The right to live and work in Spain:ย Golden Visa holders have the right to live and work in Spain for the duration of their residency permit. They can also apply for Spanish citizenship after five years of residency.
- The right to bring family members to Spain:ย Golden Visa holders can bring their spouse and children to Spain to live with them.
- No minimum stay requirement:ย Golden Visa holders are not required to spend a minimum amount of time in Spain each year. This means that they can use their visa to visit Spain regularly, or they can live in Spain full-time.
Requirements for the Spain Golden Visa
To be eligible for the Spain Golden Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a non-EU national.
- You must have a clean criminal record.
- You must have sufficient financial means to support yourself and your family in Spain.
- You must make one of the following investments in Spain:
- Purchase of real estate:ย You must purchase real estate in Spain valued at at least โฌ500,000.
- Investment in Spanish government bonds:ย You must invest at least โฌ2 million in Spanish government bonds.
- Investment in Spanish companies:ย You must invest at least โฌ1 million in a Spanish company.
Application process for the Spain Golden Visa
The application process for the Spain Golden Visa is relatively straightforward. You can apply for the visa online or through a Spanish consulate or embassy.
To apply for the visa, you will need to submit the following documents:
- A completed application form
- A valid passport
- A police clearance certificate from your country of origin
- Proof of financial means
- Proof of investment in Spain
Once your application has been submitted, it will be processed by the Spanish government. If your application is approved, you will be granted a residency permit.
Renewal of the Spain Golden Visa
The Spain Golden Visa is valid for two years. You can renew your visa for an additional two years each time, provided that you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
After five years of residency, you can apply for Spanish citizenship.
Conclusion
The Spain Golden Visa is a great option for non-EU nationals who are looking to obtain residency in Spain. The program offers a number of benefits, including free movement within the Schengen Area, the right to live and work in Spain, and the right to bring family members to Spain.
If you are interested in applying for the Spain Golden Visa, you should consult with an experienced immigration lawyer.