Life post Golden Visa: Spanish residency visa options

With the end of the Golden Visa scheme on 3 April 2025, non-EU buyers will need to look at different pathways to live in Spain. Below are a series of visa options for non-EU, non-EEA and non-Swiss citizens who wish to live in Spain long term. Applicants need apply for the appropriate visa based on financial situation, work status, or investment plans.

1. Non-Lucrative Visa (For Retirees & Those with Passive Income)

Visa to live in Spain without carrying out a lucrative activity (work or professional) as long as you have guaranteed and sufficient means of financial support. This visa does not allow the ability to work

The following family members may also obtain the visa:

Spouse or pareja de hecho (a type of civil partnership in Spain)
Dependant children or relatives who are part of the family unit

Requirements:

Proof of sufficient financial means: A minimum of €30,240. For each dependant family member of the applicant, an amount that equals or is above 100% of the IPREM (Public Income Index) must be added.
Private health insurance contracted with an insurance company authorised to operate in Spain and proof of payment.
Clean criminal record
A medical certificate attesting that the applicant does not suffer from diseases that could have serious repercussions for public health (dated within the last 90 days).

Duration: Visa will be valid for 90 days. Once in Spain, the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE, Foreign Identity Card) must be applied for within 1 month of entry into Spain, at the relevant Oficina de Extranjeros (Foreigner’s Office) or Police Station.

Best for: Retirees, self-funded individuals, and those seeking long-term residence without working.

2. Digital Nomad Visa (For Remote Workers & Freelancers)

Visa for foreigners who want to carry out remote work or professional activity for companies located outside Spain by the exclusive use of computer, telematic or telecommunication means.

The following family members of the remote worker may also obtain the visa:

Spouse or pareja de hecho (a type of civil partnership in Spain)
The remote worker’s minor children or adult children who are economically dependent on the remote worker and don’t have a family unit of their own
Ascendants under the care of the remote worker

Requirements:

Hold a graduate or postgraduate degree issued by reputable universities, vocational training centres or business schools of recognised standing, or prove at least three years' professional experience.
Minimum income of approximately €32,000 per year for one person (varies according to the number of family members).
At least 80% of income must come from companies or clients outside Spain.
Private health insurance and clean criminal record.
Initially granted for one year, with the possibility of extension for up to five years. After five years, permanent residency can be applied for.
It is necessary to apply for the visa and the NIE (foreign identification number) at the same time

Specific requirements:

Salaried employee
- Proof of a remote working contract
- The foreigner who works as an employee may only work for companies located outside Spain
Freelance
- Demonstrate at least three months of freelance work
- The foreigner who works as self employed (or freelancer) may work for companies located in Spain, provided that the percentage of such work does not exceed 20% of their total activity

Tax benefits: Reduced tax rate of 15% (instead of 24%) for the first four years.

Best for: Remote workers, digital entrepreneurs, and freelancers seeking long-term residence in Spain.

3. Entrepreneur Visa (For Business Investors & Startups)

Designed for entrepreneurs looking to start an innovative business in Spain.

Key Requirements:

The applicant's professional profile, training and professional experience as well as involvement in the project.
A solid business plan that demonstrates innovation and positive economic impact in Spain

Duration: Initial duration of 1 year if applying from abroad. However, if you are already in Spain and apply for residency for entrepreneurs, a 3-year permit is granted directly.

Best for: Entrepreneurs, business owners, and startup founders with innovative ideas.