Program Overview

Spain’s allure as a premier destination is undeniable, drawing in countless visitors each year with its breathtaking landscapes, sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and storied past. For those harboring dreams of calling this captivating country home, the Spain Residence by Investment Program stands out as a beacon of opportunity. With its streamlined process, the program offers a swift pathway to residency for those willing to make a substantial and impactful investment in Spain’s economy.

Under this initiative, individuals, along with their immediate family members, can swiftly secure residency in Spain through a temporary residence permit, often in less than a month’s time. This fast-track route to residency is bolstered by the Spanish government’s allocation of a significant number of visas, expressly designed to incentivize qualified investments that drive foreign direct investment and stimulate economic growth.

Participants in the residence by investment program enjoy the prospect of establishing roots in Spain, with the opportunity to transition to permanent residency status after residing continuously in the country for five years, in accordance with prevailing immigration regulations. Moreover, achieving permanent residency paves the way for individuals to pursue Spanish citizenship, further solidifying their ties to this enchanting land.

In essence, the Spain Residence by Investment Program offers a gateway to a life enriched by the country’s boundless beauty, cultural richness, and economic vibrancy, making it an appealing choice for those seeking to embark on a new chapter in one of Europe’s most coveted destinations.

Investment

Under the Spain Residence by Investment Program, prospective participants must meet one of the following investment criteria to qualify for residency:

1. Real Estate Investment: Purchase one or more properties in Spain with a minimum total value of €500,000. This investment can encompass residential, commercial, or other types of real estate.
2. Financial Investment: Invest a minimum of 1 million Euros in Spanish financial institutions through investment funds, bank deposits, or listed company shares. This avenue allows investors to contribute to the country’s financial sector while fulfilling program requirements.
3. Government Bonds Investment: Opt for a government bonds investment in Spain with a minimum value of 2 million Euros. By investing in government bonds, individuals contribute directly to the country’s economic stability and growth.

As part of the application process, applicants must provide documentary evidence of their chosen investment. This documentation serves as proof of the investment’s fulfillment and is crucial for the successful completion of the residency application.

By offering multiple investment options, the Spain Residence by Investment Program accommodates diverse investor preferences and facilitates the influx of foreign capital into the country, ultimately bolstering economic development and fostering international cooperation.

Procedures and time frame

To initiate the process, applicants must submit their applications using the prescribed forms, along with the requisite fees and supporting documents. Typically, residence permits are granted after a consideration period of about 20 days. These permits initially last for three years and can be extended for an additional five years upon request, provided that the applicant maintains a minimum investment in Spain.

The application process unfolds in two distinct phases:

1. First Phase – Residence Visa Application: In this initial stage, applicants must apply for a Spanish residence visa from their home country. This visa grants them permission to reside and work in Spain for a period of one year. However, there is an exception; if applicants are already in Spain on a regular tourist visa, they can proceed directly to the second phase, bypassing this initial step.
2. Second Phase – Residence Permit Application: Here, applicants formally apply for a Spanish residence permit. As mentioned earlier, if applicants are already in Spain on a tourist visa, they can directly apply for the residence permit. This permit extends to the main investor, their spouse or partner (including unmarried or same-sex unions), as well as all economically dependent descendants.

Requirements

Alongside meeting the investment criteria, applicants for the Spain golden visa must fulfill several additional requirements to qualify for residency:

1. Clear Criminal Record: Applicants must provide evidence of a clean criminal record, demonstrating their good standing and trustworthiness.
2. Medical Insurance: It is mandatory for applicants to possess medical insurance coverage. This ensures that individuals and their families have access to essential healthcare services during their stay in Spain.
3. Sufficient Economic Means: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability and possess adequate economic resources to support themselves and their dependents while residing in Spain. This includes covering living expenses, accommodation costs, and other necessities.
4. No Previous Visa Rejections or Entry Refusals: Individuals who have been previously denied visas or entry into the Schengen zone may not be eligible for the golden visa in Spain. This requirement underscores the importance of complying with immigration regulations and maintaining a favorable travel record.

By satisfying these criteria, applicants pave the way for the acquisition of the golden visa in Spain, granting them and their families the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of residency in this vibrant and culturally rich country.

Fees

Obtaining the golden visa in Spain involves legal procedures that require the expertise of a qualified lawyer. The fees associated with legal representation vary depending on the complexity of the case and the composition of the applicant’s family. As a general guideline, we suggest budgeting approximately €8,000 for legal assistance in processing a family application. Additionally, there is a government processing fee of €70 Euros per applicant that must be accounted for.

Furthermore, purchasing real estate in Spain entails various taxes, stamp duties, and fees. To ensure comprehensive financial planning, investors should budget for approximately 11-12% of the total property value to cover these expenses. The primary component of this sum is typically Value Added Tax (IVA). Additionally, there are conveyancing fees, which typically amount to around 1.0% of the property purchase price. These fees cover legal services related to property transfer and ensure a smooth and legally sound transaction process.

By factoring in these costs and fees, investors can make informed decisions and navigate the golden visa application process and property acquisition in Spain with confidence and clarity.

Family

Generally, qualifying family members include the applicant’s spouse and all children under the age of 18. Additionally, children who are 18 and older, as well as parents, may qualify if they are financially dependent on the primary applicant. This provision allows for flexibility in accommodating various family structures and ensures that dependent family members can also benefit from the golden visa residency status.

Taxes

Tax considerations for investors in Spain vary depending on residency status:

1. Taxation for Residents:
   • Residents in Spain are subject to taxation on their worldwide income if they spend over 183 days in the country in any given year.
   • Income tax rates for residents are progressive, with rates ranging from 19% to 45% depending on income levels.
2. Taxation for Non-Residents:
   • Non-residents are taxed at a flat rate of 24.75% on income derived within Spain, such as rental income from properties. This rate can be reduced by deductible expenses related to the rental property.
   • Capital gains tax (CGT) applies to profits from the sale of property. The tax rate starts at 24% and increases to 27% for gains exceeding €50,000. There are allowances and deductions available to mitigate the tax burden.
3. Property Taxes:
   • Annual property taxes, known as IBI (Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles), are payable to the local authorities. The amount typically ranges from €200 to €400 per year for an apartment, depending on factors such as location and property value.

It’s important for investors to be aware of their tax obligations and consult with tax professionals to ensure compliance with Spanish tax laws and regulations. Taxation policies can evolve, so staying informed about any updates or changes is advisable.

Living & Working

For applicants considering full-time residency in Spain, securing medical insurance is essential. However, families relocating to Spain can take advantage of comprehensive public services, including access to state medical care and schooling for their children. State schools in Spain follow the national curriculum, providing a culturally immersive education experience. Moreover, for families seeking alternative educational options, there are numerous English international schools available, offering a curriculum aligned with international standards. This diversity in schooling options ensures that families can select the educational environment that best suits their preferences and requirements when transitioning to life in Spain.

Travel

The Spanish residence permit obtained through the golden visa program grants holders the valuable privilege of freedom of movement throughout the entire EU Schengen zone. This means that individuals with this residency status can travel seamlessly across the Schengen Area countries without the need for additional visas or entry permits. This mobility offers unparalleled opportunities for business, leisure, and personal exploration within the European Union, further enhancing the appeal of the Spain golden visa as a gateway to an enriched and interconnected European lifestyle.

Spanish Citizenship & Passport

Acquiring Spanish citizenship and passport privileges is a significant milestone for individuals who have established roots in Spain through the golden visa program:

• Permanent Residency: After residing in Spain for five years, individuals may apply for permanent residency, provided they have spent more than six months in the country each year.
• Citizenship Application: Citizenship in Spain becomes attainable after a decade of residency. However, applicants must have maintained continuous residence throughout this period to be eligible for citizenship and a Spanish passport.
• Investment Disposal: Once individuals attain either permanent residency or citizenship status, they are no longer obligated to maintain their initial investment. Subsequent golden visa renewals are unnecessary, affording them flexibility in managing their assets.

Exceptions exist for specific groups, such as Sephardi Jews and citizens from Equatorial Guinea, Latin America, and the Philippines. These individuals can pursue citizenship after just two years of residence in Spain, presenting an expedited path to full integration into Spanish society.

It’s essential to note that while Spain generally permits dual citizenship, there are restrictions for many foreign nationals. Prospective citizens should familiarize themselves with the relevant regulations governing dual citizenship to ensure compliance with Spanish law.

Benefits

The benefits of obtaining a Spanish golden visa are diverse and encompass various aspects of life and opportunity:

1. High Quality of Life: Spain offers a renowned standard of living, with its Mediterranean climate, rich culture, and vibrant communities fostering an enviable quality of life for residents.
2. Inclusive Family Sponsorship: The golden visa program allows applicants to include their spouse or unmarried partner, financially dependent children of any age (including adult children who are full-time students), and financially dependent parents aged 65 and older. This inclusive policy ensures that families can remain together and enjoy the benefits of residency in Spain.
3. Access to Healthcare and Education: Golden visa holders have access to Spain’s esteemed public healthcare and education systems, providing peace of mind and quality services for themselves and their families.
4. Scenic Landscapes: Spain’s breathtaking landscapes, from picturesque coastlines to majestic mountains, offer residents endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.
5. Accelerated Citizenship Path: For eligible individuals, such as Sephardic Jews and descendants, as well as citizens of select countries including Ibero-American nations, Andorra, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, and the Philippines, Spanish citizenship can be pursued after just two years of effective residence, presenting an expedited path to full integration and citizenship rights.
6. Multilingual Education: Spain boasts excellent schools offering diverse educational programs, including tuition in languages such as English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Mandarin, catering to the diverse linguistic needs and preferences of residents.

These advantages make the Spanish golden visa an attractive option for individuals and families seeking to establish themselves in a welcoming and culturally rich European nation.

Summary

The Spanish golden visa program offers a streamlined and efficient application process, characterized by fast processing times and low government fees. The straightforward nature of the process simplifies the path to residency for investors and their families. However, it’s crucial to recognize that the primary objective of the program is residency, rather than citizenship and a second passport.

Unlike some neighboring countries, such as Portugal, where citizenship can be obtained without the requirement of residing in the country, Spain mandates that applicants live within its borders to qualify for citizenship. This residency requirement is a notable distinction between the Spanish golden visa program and similar initiatives in other European nations.

While the Spanish golden visa presents an attractive opportunity for residency and access to the European Union, individuals should be aware of the program’s focus on residency rather than citizenship acquisition. Understanding these distinctions allows applicants to make informed decisions aligned with their long-term goals and aspirations.