The Golden Visa is a gateway for non-EU citizens to acquire residency in Spain through significant investment, predominantly in real estate. Initiated in 2013, the program provides a streamlined process for investors to gain residency while contributing to Spain’s economy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to obtaining the Golden Visa, including eligibility criteria, application steps, and required documentation.
What is the Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa program offers residency to non-EU nationals who make substantial investments in Spain. This opportunity allows investors to engage in the flourishing Spanish economy while enjoying the benefits of legal residency.
Benefits of the Golden Visa Hospitality
• Residency: Reside and work legally in Spain.
• Family Inclusion: Extend the visa to your spouse and children under 18.
• Travel: Enjoy unrestricted movement within the Schengen Area.
• Education and Health: Access public schools and healthcare in Spain.
• Path to Citizenship: Apply for Spanish nationality after 10 years of residency.
Who Can Apply?
The Golden Visa is available to:
• Non-EU citizens.
• Individuals over 18 years old.
• Those with no criminal record.
• Applicants with private medical insurance in Spain.
• Investors demonstrating sufficient financial means to support themselves and their families.
Investment Requirements
1. Real Estate
Investment Requirement:
Purchase property in Spain valued at €500,000 or more.
Why Choose Real Estate?
Real estate is the most straightforward path to obtaining the Golden Visa, offering a tangible asset that can appreciate over time. It provides a residence and a financial investment. Spain’s dynamic property market offers diverse options, from coastal villas to urban apartments.
How to Get Started:
Explore our marketplace for premium properties in Spain to find the perfect investment for your Golden Visa.
2. Public Debt
Investment Requirement:
Invest €2 million in Spanish government bonds.
Description:
This is a secure and stable investment with a guaranteed return, ideal for those seeking low-risk investments, though it requires a higher initial capital.
3. Bank Deposits
Investment Requirement:
Deposit €1 million in a Spanish financial institution.
Description:
This option offers liquidity and flexibility, securing funds in a bank with potential interest income but possibly lower returns compared to other investments.
4. Shares
Investment Requirement:
Buy shares worth €1 million in Spanish companies.
Description:
This allows participation in Spain’s corporate sector, suitable for those interested in potentially higher returns but willing to manage market risks.
5. Business Ventures
Investment Requirement:
Establish a business in Spain that creates jobs, has a socio-economic impact, or innovates.
Description:
Starting a business can be highly rewarding and offers a direct way to integrate into the Spanish economy. The business must significantly contribute to local employment or technological advancements.
1. Decide on Your Investment Type
Evaluate your options: real estate, public debt, bank deposits, shares, or starting a business. Choose based on your financial goals and the benefits each investment type offers.
2. Make the Investment
• Real Estate: Purchase property worth €500,000 or more, free of encumbrances. This is the most advantageous investment due to potential appreciation and usability as a residence. Start your search for prime Spanish properties on our marketplace.
• Public Debt: Acquire government bonds amounting to €2 million.
• Bank Deposits: Deposit €1 million in a Spanish bank.
• Shares: Invest €1 million in Spanish companies.
• Business: Launch a business in Spain that meets specific criteria for job creation, economic impact, or innovation.
3. Collect Required Documentation
• Real Estate: Provide a Land Registry certification and the property deed.
• Public Debt: Obtain a certificate from the Bank of Spain or the financial institution handling your investment.
• Bank Deposits: Secure a certificate from the bank confirming the deposit.
• Shares: Submit a declaration of investment or a certificate from a registered financial intermediary.
• Business: Prepare a report detailing the business’s potential impact and innovation, certified by relevant authorities.
4. Apply for the Visa
Submit your application to the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country. Include:
• Valid passport.
• Proof of investment.
• Criminal record certificate.
• Proof of private medical insurance.
• Evidence of sufficient financial means.
5. Await Approval
Investment Requirement:
Establish a business in Spain that creates jobs, has a socio-economic impact, or innovates.
6. Travel to Spain
Upon approval, travel to Spain to finalize the residency process. Apply for the TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) within one month of arriving.
7. Obtain the TIE
Schedule an appointment at a local police station to provide fingerprints and complete the TIE application.
Duration and Renewal
• Initial Permit: Valid for 3 years if processed electronically in Spain, or 1 year if obtained through a consulate.
• Renewal: Renew for an additional 5 years, provided you maintain your investment and visit Spain at least once a year.
Tax Implications
• Less than 6 Months: Pay taxes only on Spanish assets.
• More than 6 Months: Subject to taxes on worldwide income and assets.
Conclusion
Investing in Spanish real estate is the most beneficial route to obtaining the Golden Visa. Real estate not only offers a secure and appreciating asset but also provides immediate usability. You can generate rental income through services like Reviero when you're not residing in your property, enhancing your return on investment. Additionally, once you purchase the property, you can obtain residency within 4 weeks, making real estate a swift and efficient choice for securing your Golden Visa.
By choosing real estate, you secure a stable investment, benefit from potential rental income, and enjoy the flexibility of having a personal residence in Spain. Explore our property listings and find the ideal investment to secure your Golden Visa.
Need Assistance?
Contact us to guide you through the Golden Visa process from start to finish. Let us handle the complexities while you focus on your investment.
