Spain Golden Visa: abolished in 2025, renewals and alternatives
Quick answer: since 3 April 2025 you can no longer apply for Spain's Golden Visa (investor residence through property, government bonds, shares or bank deposits). It was abolished by Organic Law 1/2025 (BOE), which emptied articles 63 to 67 of Law 14/2013. If you already hold a Golden Visa, it stays valid for the period granted and you can apply to renew it. If you don't, there are other ways to live in Spain.
Reviewed on 3 November 2026 by Carolina Díaz Calderón, lawyer registered with the Madrid Bar (ICAM no. 97778).
What changed
| Situation | What happens |
|---|---|
| New application from 3 April 2025 | Not possible: the investor route no longer exists |
| Application filed before 3 April 2025 | Decided under the rules in force when it was filed |
| Golden Visa already granted | Remains valid until it expires |
| Renewal of a granted Golden Visa | The Large Companies Unit (UGE) accepts renewal applications |
| Investor's family members | Follow the investor's permit |
You can still invest in Spain, but an investment on its own no longer gives you the right to live here.
If you hold a Golden Visa: renewal
Renewals are filed with the Large Companies Unit (UGE) before the permit expires. We check:
- That the investment is still held on the terms it was granted.
- Health insurance, financial means and criminal record certificates.
- Your family members (spouse, children), so they are renewed at the same time.
- Whether you should move to long-term residence or another permit, depending on how long you have lived in Spain.
If you don't hold one: alternatives
| Your profile | Recommended route |
|---|---|
| You live on savings, income or a pension and won't work in Spain | Non-lucrative residence |
| You work remotely for companies or clients outside Spain | Digital nomad visa |
| You will work for a Spanish company in a qualified role | Highly qualified professional |
| You want to set up an innovative business in Spain | Entrepreneur residence (Law 14/2013) |
| You are relocating and want to plan your taxes | Beckham Law, compatible with several of these routes |
If lower taxes were part of the plan, see our digital nomad visa + Beckham Law package.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still apply for a Golden Visa in Spain?
No. Since 3 April 2025 new investor residence applications are not accepted.I hold a Golden Visa. Will I lose it?
No. It remains valid for the period granted and you can apply to renew it with the Large Companies Unit.What about my family?
Family members who joined the investor follow the investor's permit. It is best to renew them together.If I buy a home in Spain, can I live there?
Buying property no longer gives residence on its own. You can live in Spain with another permit, such as non-lucrative residence or the digital nomad visa, if you meet its requirements.Talk to us
If you have a Golden Visa to renew or were planning to move to Spain as an investor, tell us about your case and we will tell you which route fits best.