The End of Spain's Golden Visa

January 7, 2025

By David Bornstein

As expected, the Spanish government has announced an official date for the end of the Golden Visa program for new applicants. The date is now set for April 3, 2025, as outlined in the official publication in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE). This is a little later than the January date previously discussed. Investors will now have just about three months to secure Spanish residency through real estate investment, a pathway that has attracted numerous U.S. buyers to the Costa del Sol. If you’ve been considering this option, this is the last opportunity to act before the window closes.

Spain’s Golden Visa program has long been a popular route for non-EU citizens seeking residency in Europe. By investing a minimum of €500,000 in real estate, applicants could gain residency rights for themselves and their families, along with the freedom to travel throughout the Schengen area. However, like other European countries that have recently phased out similar programs, Spain has also decided to bring its program to an end.

I’ve covered the Golden Visa program extensively in earlier blog articles, including “Residency Options for Americans Buying Property in Spain.” Current Golden Visa holders will remain unaffected and can renew their visas under the original program terms, as specified in the latest official policy. Other countries have similarly allowed renewals for existing participants after ending new applications. It remains critical for those interested in the Golden Visa to act promptly to ensure eligibility under the current framework.

Remember that having a residence permit doesn’t automatically make you a Spanish tax resident—tax residency begins only after you’ve spent more than 183 days in the country in a calendar year. For more on this topic, see the discussion in the earlier article linked above. These changes will also not affect other visa options, such as the Non-Lucrative Visa or Digital Nomad Visa.

If you’re ready to explore your options, let’s start by identifying properties that meet the investment threshold and offer the lifestyle and long-term value you seek. If you’ve been considering Spain’s Golden Visa, this could be your last chance to take advantage of this program. Reach out today and let me help you find your dream Costa del Sol property before the Golden Visa becomes a part of history.