Guide: Golden Visa for Expats

How to Obtain a Golden Visa in Spain: A Guide for Expats

The Spanish Golden Visa program is one of the most popular residency-by-investment schemes in Europe, offering expats the opportunity to gain residency in Spain by investing in real estate. This visa provides a host of benefits, including the right to live and work in Spain, access to the Schengen zone for visa-free travel, and a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship. For those looking to invest in property while securing their residency, the Spanish Golden Visa is a fantastic option.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the Golden Visa, including how to qualify, the steps to apply, and why Costa Blanca is an excellent choice for your investment. We’re here to assist you throughout the entire process, from finding the perfect property to obtaining your visa.

What is the Spanish Golden Visa?

The Spanish Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program introduced in 2013 to attract foreign investment. By investing in Spanish real estate, foreign nationals can obtain a residency visa for themselves and their families. This visa allows you to live in Spain and travel freely within the Schengen zone, making it a highly attractive option for non-EU expats.

The minimum investment required to qualify for the Golden Visa is €500,000 in real estate. Unlike other residency visas, you are not required to live in Spain full-time to maintain your visa, making it flexible for those who may only spend part of the year in Spain.

Key Benefits of the Spanish Golden Visa

The Spanish Golden Visa offers several key benefits for expats:

  • Residency Rights: The Golden Visa grants you and your family the right to live, work, and study in Spain. You can include your spouse, children under 18, and dependent relatives.

  • Schengen Zone Access: With the Golden Visa, you can travel freely across the Schengen zone without needing additional visas, which is particularly appealing for frequent travelers.

  • No Minimum Stay Requirement: Unlike other residency visas, the Golden Visa doesn’t require you to reside in Spain for a minimum number of days per year. This flexibility allows you to split your time between countries.

  • Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After five years, you can apply for permanent residency in Spain, and after ten years, you may apply for Spanish citizenship, provided you meet certain requirements.

  • Financial Benefits: As a Golden Visa holder, you can enjoy certain tax advantages, and owning property in Spain can serve as a lucrative investment, especially in high-demand areas like Costa Blanca.

The Property Investment Requirement for a Golden Visa

To qualify for the Spanish Golden Visa, you must invest a minimum of €500,000 in Spanish real estate. This investment can be in the form of one or multiple properties, and it can include residential, commercial, or land purchases. However, the total investment must reach the €500,000 threshold to qualify.

One of the key benefits is that there are no restrictions on the type of property you invest in. Whether you’re interested in a luxury villa, an apartment, or a commercial property, as long as the total value meets or exceeds €500,000, you can qualify for the Golden Visa. Additionally, the investment must be free of any mortgages or loans for the first €500,000, though you can finance any amount over this threshold with a mortgage.

Other Requirements for the Golden Visa

Besides the property investment, there are several additional requirements for obtaining the Golden Visa in Spain:

  • Health Insurance: You must have private health insurance that covers you and your family in Spain.

  • Proof of Financial Stability: You’ll need to show that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself and your family.

  • No Criminal Record: Applicants must provide proof that they do not have a criminal record in Spain or their home country.

  • Visa Application: The Golden Visa application must be submitted through the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country or directly in Spain if you’re already in the country.

Step-by-Step Process for Applying for a Golden Visa

The process of applying for a Spanish Golden Visa is straightforward but involves several key steps:

  1. Find the Right Property: The first step is to identify and invest in a qualifying property. We can help make this process smoother.

  2. Make the Investment: Once the property is secured, the investment needs to be officially registered.

  3. Apply for the Visa: Submit your Golden Visa application either through the Spanish consulate or directly in Spain.

  4. Post-Approval: Once your visa is approved, you’ll receive your residency card, which is initially valid for one year.

Costs and Fees Associated with the Golden Visa

While the primary cost is the real estate investment of €500,000, there are additional costs involved in the Golden Visa application process:

  • Legal Fees: Typically around €1,000 to €3,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s services.

  • Application Fees: Visa application fees range from €70 to €100 per applicant, including dependents.

How Long is the Spanish Golden Visa Valid?

The initial Spanish Golden Visa is valid for one year. After this, you can renew it for periods of two years as long as you maintain your investment. There’s no requirement to live in Spain full-time to keep your visa, making it ideal for expats who want flexibility.

After five years, you can apply for permanent residency, and after ten years, you may apply for Spanish citizenship if you meet the necessary residency requirements.

Can You Rent Out Your Property to Meet Golden Visa Requirements?

Yes, you can rent out the property you purchase for your Golden Visa to generate rental income. This is an attractive option for investors who don’t plan to live in Spain full-time. The rental income can provide financial returns while still meeting the requirements for maintaining your visa.

We can help manage your property, ensuring you get the most from your investment while staying compliant with the Golden Visa regulations.

Why Costa Blanca is the Perfect Place for Golden Visa Investors

Costa Blanca is one of the most desirable regions for Golden Visa investors due to its stunning landscapes, affordable property prices, and excellent rental demand. The area offers a perfect blend of Mediterranean lifestyle, modern amenities, and excellent healthcare facilities, making it ideal for expats.

Popular hotspots for property investments include Alicante, Altea, and Benidorm, all of which offer a range of properties that meet the Golden Visa requirements.

How We Can Help You Get Your Spanish Golden Visa

We specialize in helping expats navigate the complexities of the Golden Visa program. From identifying the right property to managing the legal and financial aspects of the purchase, we provide personalized support at every step. We work closely with legal experts and banks to ensure that your investment is secure and your visa application is successful.

Conclusion

The Spanish Golden Visa offers a unique opportunity for expats to gain residency through property investment, with numerous benefits for you and your family. With the right guidance, the process can be straightforward and highly rewarding.

We’re here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to start your journey toward obtaining a Golden Visa and owning your dream property in Costa