Spain Residence by Investment

Yes. Spain suspended the real estate Golden Visa in April 2025, meaning property investment no longer qualifies as a route to residence. However, several alternative pathways remain fully operational, including the Non-Lucrative Visa, Entrepreneur Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, and investment in Spanish businesses, funds, or government bonds. TopNation Global advises clients on the most suitable pathway based on their individual circumstances.

Spain continues to offer multiple residence pathways. The Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for individuals with sufficient passive income who do not intend to work in Spain. The Entrepreneur Visa targets those establishing a business with economic benefit to Spain. The Digital Nomad Visa permits remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies to reside in Spain. Additionally, investment in Spanish companies, venture capital funds, or government bonds may still qualify under the investor visa framework.

The Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for individuals who wish to reside in Spain without engaging in any form of employment or professional activity. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means — approximately EUR 28,800 per year for the main applicant, with additional amounts for each dependant. This visa is popular among retirees, individuals with passive income, and those seeking a European lifestyle base. It provides full residence rights in Spain and Schengen Area travel privileges.

The Entrepreneur Visa requires a viable business plan that demonstrates economic benefit and potential job creation in Spain. The plan must be assessed favourably by the relevant Spanish authorities. There is no fixed minimum investment amount, but the business must be innovative or contribute meaningfully to the Spanish economy. Applicants must also demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves and their families, hold valid health insurance, and possess a clean criminal record.

Yes. All Spanish residence visa categories permit family reunification. The main applicant may include their spouse or registered partner and dependent children. Family members receive their own residence permits, granting them the right to live in Spain and travel within the Schengen Area. Additional financial means must be demonstrated for each family member included in the application.

Processing times typically range from one to three months, depending on the visa category, the completeness of the application, and the workload of the relevant Spanish consulate. The Entrepreneur Visa may involve an additional assessment period by the Spanish authorities evaluating the business plan. TopNation Global ensures all documentation is complete and accurate from the outset to minimise delays.

No. The Non-Lucrative Visa explicitly prohibits any form of employment or professional activity in Spain. Holders must rely entirely on passive income, savings, or investments. For those who wish to work remotely for a non-Spanish employer, the Digital Nomad Visa is the appropriate alternative. For those establishing a business in Spain, the Entrepreneur Visa provides the necessary work authorisation.

Spanish citizenship may be obtained through naturalisation after 10 years of continuous legal residence. Applicants must demonstrate integration into Spanish society, which includes passing tests on Spanish language, culture, and constitutional knowledge. Nationals of certain countries — including those from Latin America, Portugal, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, and Andorra — may qualify for citizenship after just two years of residence. Dual citizenship is permitted with some of these countries.

Introduced in 2023, Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers and freelancers employed by non-Spanish companies to reside legally in Spain. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum income level, an employment or professional relationship with a company outside Spain, and at least one year of relevant professional experience. The visa is initially issued for one year and may be renewed. It provides full residence rights in Spain and Schengen Area travel privileges.

Real estate investment in Spain remains fully legal and accessible to foreign nationals. However, since April 2025, property purchase alone no longer qualifies as a route to Spanish residence under the former Golden Visa framework. Investors may still purchase property in Spain for personal use, rental income, or capital appreciation, but must pursue one of the alternative visa pathways for residence purposes. TopNation Global can advise on combining property investment with an appropriate residence strategy.