The Spanish government has confirmed that its popular ‘Golden Visa’ scheme – which grants non-EU citizens residency rights in exchange for property or other investments worth at least €500,000 – will end on 3 April.
That leaves just a few weeks for new applicants to secure a qualifying property purchase and finalise visa documentation.
Introduced in 2013, the Golden Visa programme attracted investors worldwide seeking access to Spain’s lifestyle, climate, and travel benefits in the Schengen zone. Crucially, the €500,000 minimum investment cannot be made using a mortgage, meaning the funds must be paid in cash. Successful applicants also extend residency rights to spouses and dependent children, typically for two years initially, followed by renewal options.
Time crunch for new buyers
Property specialists warn that finalising a purchase in Spain normally takes six to eight weeks from offer acceptance to completion—an increasingly tight timeframe with the April deadline looming. Many estate agents report a surge in enquiries from British, North American and Middle Eastern buyers keen to submit their applications in time.
Expert advice
- Find a dedicated visa specialist: An experienced adviser can help collate documents, submit forms, and liaise with Spanish authorities.
- Start your property hunt now: Aim to make an offer within days or weeks to leave enough breathing room for legal and financial processes.
- Explore alternative visas: Tourists can spend up to 90 days in Spain per 180-day period without a visa. For more permanent arrangements, consider the non-lucrative visa or the new digital nomad visa, which allows remote workers to stay while employed by companies outside Spain.
While the Golden Visa’s closure may mark the end of an era for high-net-worth property buyers, non-EU citizens will still have routes into residency—just under different terms. For those seeking a quick path to Spain’s sun-soaked shores, however, the countdown is on.
