Spain golden visas
Spain golden visas

Spain to End Golden Visa Program for Non-EU Nationals: Apply Before April 3, 2025

If you’re considering applying for Spain’s Golden Visa Program, time is running out. The Spanish government has announced that it will end the Golden Visa Program for non-EU nationals on April 3, 2025. This announcement comes as part of efforts to address Spain’s housing crisis and shift the focus toward more affordable housing solutions. If you’re a non-EU investor looking to secure residency in Spain, make sure to submit your application before the deadline.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about Spain’s decision to end the Golden Visa Program, including eligibility, the application process, and potential alternatives for future residency options.


Key Dates to Remember for Spain’s Golden Visa Program

The Golden Visa Program for non-EU nationals in Spain has been a popular option for investors seeking residency through substantial investments, particularly in real estate. However, with the program set to end, here are the key dates you must remember:

  • Application Deadline: April 3, 2025 — This is the final date to submit your Golden Visa application.
  • Program Abolishment: July 3, 2025 — The program will officially cease to exist three months after its official publication on January 3, 2025.

A Brief Timeline of Spain’s Golden Visa Program End

  • November 14, 2024: The Spanish Congress of Deputies approved the proposal to end the Golden Visa Program.
  • December 2, 2024: The Spanish Senate temporarily vetoed the bill, delaying the official termination.
  • December 2024: The Congress re-approved the proposal, with 177 votes in favor and 170 votes against.
  • January 3, 2025: Spain’s Official State Gazette (BOE) published the official law confirming the program’s end.

Spain has provided a three-month grace period for applicants, allowing them to finalize their investments and secure residency by April 3, 2025.


Eligibility Criteria for Golden Visa Applicants Before the Deadline

Non-EU nationals can still apply for the Golden Visa until the April 3, 2025, deadline. To qualify for the program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Property Investment: Purchase property in Spain worth at least €500,000.
  • Other Investment Options: Alternative investment opportunities are available under the program, such as investments in businesses or government bonds.

The most common route to obtaining a Golden Visa is through real estate investment, which grants residency benefits in return.


Why Is Spain Ending the Golden Visa Program?

Spain’s decision to end the Golden Visa Program stems from a desire to tackle the country’s ongoing housing crisis. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized the need to prioritize affordable housing for citizens rather than allowing housing to become a speculative investment for wealthy foreign nationals.

“We will ensure housing is not a mere speculative business but a right,” Sánchez stated, underlining the government’s commitment to regulating the housing market.

The push to end the program was first introduced in April 2024 as part of broader measures to ensure more affordable housing for Spain’s residents.


Economic Impact of Spain’s Golden Visa Program

Since its introduction in 2013, the Golden Visa Program has had a significant economic impact on Spain, particularly in the real estate sector. In the first ten months of 2024 alone, the program issued:

  • 780 Golden Visas
  • The average investment per applicant was €657,204

These figures highlight the importance of the program in boosting Spain’s economy. However, the government’s shift in focus toward affordable housing reflects a growing concern over the effects of speculation in the housing market.


Looking for Alternatives? Other Residency Options for Non-EU Nationals

While the Golden Visa Program is coming to an end, non-EU nationals can explore alternative residency options in Spain. It’s a good idea to consult with an immigration specialist or legal expert to explore other avenues for obtaining residency.

Some alternatives might include:

  • Investor Visa: If you meet specific financial thresholds, you could apply for other investment-based visa programs.
  • Non-Lucrative Visa: For individuals who wish to reside in Spain without working.
  • Work or Student Visas: If you plan to work or study in Spain, these visas could be a viable option.

Exploring these options early can help you secure residency in Spain even after the Golden Visa ends.


Key Takeaways for Potential Applicants

If you are considering applying for the Golden Visa Program in Spain, here are the key points you need to know:

  • Act Quickly: Ensure your Golden Visa application is submitted before April 3, 2025.
  • Eligible Investments: Focus on investments in real estate or other approved options valued at €500,000 or more.
  • Impact on Housing Market: The program’s abolishment is aimed at addressing the housing crisis and making housing more affordable for Spain’s residents.

Final Words: Don’t Miss Out on the Golden Visa Opportunity

The end of Spain’s Golden Visa Program marks a significant shift in the country’s immigration and housing policies. Non-EU nationals looking to secure residency through investment must act quickly before the April 3, 2025 deadline. With only a few months left to apply, make sure you take advantage of this opportunity to invest in Spain and enjoy the residency benefits it offers.

For those who miss the deadline, it’s worth considering other residency options and consulting with an immigration expert to find the best path forward.


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