Residency for foreign investment in Spain: Best options
If you are a high-net-worth foreign investor looking for a secure and effective way to obtain residency by investment in Spain, 2025 offers various options tailored to your needs.
From the Golden Visa to other investment alternatives, there are legal pathways that allow you to establish yourself in the country with guarantees and exclusive benefits.
Spain remains one of the most attractive destinations for international investors due to its quality of life, gastronomy, pleasant climate, economic stability, and access to the European market.
In this article, we explain the best strategies for establishing yourself in Spain in 2025.
How to obtain residency in Spain with investment: Golden Visa
The Golden Visa is one of the most appealing options for investors who wish to live in Spain. This residence permit is aimed at individuals making high-value investments in the country. The basic requirements include:
- Purchasing real estate in Spain worth a minimum of 500.000 €.
- Investing at least 1 million € in shares or company stakes of Spanish businesses.
- Depositing 1 million € in Spanish banking entities.
- Investing 2 million € in Spanish government bonds.
However, as of January 3, 2025, the definitive suspension of the Golden Visa program was published in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE). This law, approved earlier in 2025, will come into effect three months after its publication. This means that from April 2025, no new Golden Visa applications will be accepted.
As stated by expert investment lawyers in Barcelona from Forcam Lawyers, this measure imposed by the Spanish government has been a major setback for foreigners who wanted to invest in Spain and obtain residency through the Golden Visa.
But don’t worry! There are still several alternatives in 2025 to obtain residency in Spain through investment.
Alternatives to the Golden Visa for obtaining residency
While the Golden Visa was a popular option, in 2025, several alternatives exist for foreign investors who wish to establish themselves in Spain without fulfilling the specific requirements of this visa. These options allow residency through different investment types and wealth management strategies.1) Non-Lucrative Residency
The non-lucrative residency is a perfect alternative for individuals with passive income or high net worth. It does not require a direct investment in Spain but does require proof of sufficient financial means to live in the country without working.2) Establishing a Business in Spain
Setting up a business in Spain is an effective way to obtain residency, especially if the company creates jobs and adds value to the Spanish economy. Through the Entrepreneurs Law, business owners can apply for residency if their project is deemed to have economic interest.Key Requirements:
- Present a viable business plan with a positive impact on employment or innovation.
- Obtain a favorable report from the General Directorate of Trade and Investment before applying for residency.
- Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to operate the company.
In this case, the applicant must provide a favorable report obtained before applying for the visa or residence permit.
This option is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to expand their operations in a strong and growing European market.3) Residency Through Government Bonds
For more conservative investors, purchasing Spanish government bonds is an attractive alternative. This type of investment grants residency without the need to manage a business or buy real estate.
Key Requirements:
- Invest a minimum of 2 million € in Spanish government bonds.
- Maintain the investment for the minimum period required by law.
4) Investment in Funds and Stock Purchases
Another viable option in 2025 is investing in investment funds, venture capital firms, or purchasing shares in Spanish companies.
Key Requirements:
- Invest a minimum of 1 million € in shares or equity of Spanish companies.
- Make the investment in investment funds or venture capital firms registered with the CNMV (Spanish Securities Market Commission).
- Maintain the investment for the time required to sustain residency.
This option is ideal for high-net-worth investors looking to diversify their portfolio and benefit from Spain’s economic growth while securing their residency status.
Benefits of Obtaining Residency in Spain Through Investment
Gaining residency in Spain through investment offers multiple advantages, including:- Access to one of Europe’s best healthcare and education systems.
- Freedom of movement within the European Union.
- The possibility of settling with family.
- Tax advantages and investment opportunities in a stable market.
Additionally, the political and economic stability of Spain makes it an ideal destination to relocate with family and develop a long-term life plan. Investing in real estate, business ventures, or financial assets provides exceptional opportunities to obtain residency while enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle.
The real estate market remains one of the best options for foreign investors. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Marbella, and Mallorca have high demand and excellent property appreciation, making it a profitable long-term investment.
However, as explained in this article, from April 2025, to obtain residency in Spain, investors must invest in financial assets, create businesses or startups, or purchase government bonds.
The Importance of Hiring a Law Firm for Foreign Investors
The investment and residency process can be highly complex if handled individually without external professional advice. Hiring a law firm specializing in foreign investors is key to ensuring a smooth application process.
If you are looking for the best law firm in Spain, make sure they offer high-quality legal advice in multiple areas (not just real estate law) and have specialists in corporate and tax law.
Each investment has its own tax implications. Therefore, it is also advisable to seek specialized tax advice to optimize your tax burden and avoid overpaying taxes to the Spanish Tax Agency (AEAT).
Can You Obtain Residency by Investment in Spain in 2025?
The answer is yes! Residency by investment in Spain is still possible in 2025 and remains an excellent option for foreign investors looking to benefit from a secure environment, high quality of life, and access to business opportunities.
Whether through business and Startups creation in Spain, purchasing real estate, acquiring government bonds, or investing in funds and stocks, Spain offers a wide range of legal options to obtain residency with multiple benefits.
If you are considering investing and moving to Spain, getting expert legal advice will help you make the best decisions and ensure success in obtaining residency.