If you are considering living permanently in Spain, knowing the alternatives to the Golden Visa in Spain is fundamental. Although this visa is no longer valid, there are more options for you to settle legally in the European Union.
It is an interesting list of permits, which imply requirements and benefits designed for different profiles. Getting familiar with them will make it easier to plan your immigration process and make the right decisions from the beginning.
What types of visa are available? Alternatives to the Golden Visa in Spain
There are several alternatives to the Golden Visa Spain, and they vary depending on the purpose of the stay. We tell you what they are:
- Non-lucrative residence visa
- Digital nomad visa
- Entrepreneur Visa
- Residence permit for work
- Residence permit for studies
- Residence permit for roots
Why was the Golden Visa eliminated?
The Golden Visa was valid until April 2025. The causes of its elimination are:
- Tension in the real estate sector. There was an increase in investment by foreigners; as a result, residents had trouble obtaining housing.
- Economic impact. All investments were concentrated only in real estate.
This situation reopened the debate on real estate investment in the country and the need to regulate it without it being directly linked to the achievement of residency. Consult with real estate lawyers, and they will guide you.
Current Alternatives for Foreign Investors and Residents
Due to the annulment of the Golden Visa, residing in Spain is no longer linked to the purchase of a home. We show you the alternatives to the Golden Visa 2026.
Non-lucrative residence visa
It allows you to reside in the country without a job. The requirements for the non-lucrative visa in Spain are: financial solvency, private health insurance without co-payments, and the commitment not to work in the country.
It is a consolidated and legally defined procedure; In addition, it can be converted into a work permit. However, it requires constant economic solvency and does not allow for work. It is ideal for wealth investors, retirees, or people with passive income.
Digital nomad visa
This type of visa is designed with remote professionals in mind. The requirements to apply for it are the accreditation of remote work, a stable minimum income, health insurance, and professional documentation.
This permit will allow you to live and work, but it requires specific technical and contractual requirements. Other than that, it does not apply to activities aimed at the Spanish market, so it is ideal for freelancers and remote employees.
Visa for entrepreneurs in Spain
It focuses on foreigners who plan to undertake a project. Therefore, it requires a feasible plan, a report from the competent administration, and financial stability. It is one of the alternatives to the Golden Visa, but the evaluation process is demanding.
Residency for work in Spain
Admit to reside and work if you have an employment relationship. The requirements are to have a job offer and legal permission. Among its benefits, it offers complete access to the labor market and the Social Security system.
But the drawbacks are dependence on the employer or the economic activity, and the procedures are more complex. It is one of the residency options in Spain without a Golden Visa, suitable for professionals with a job offer or self-employed.
Residency for studies
Authorize residence while you are studying at recognized educational centers. Obtaining it requires registration in an authorized center, financial means, and medical insurance.
It represents an accessible way of legal entry into the country and the possibility of working on a limited basis. However, its duration is limited to the period of study.
Residence by roots
Residence by roots in Spain is an exceptional way of regularization for foreigners who live there and can prove social, work, or family ties. It is an opportunity to regularize while you are already in the country, although it may require varying requirements depending on the modality.
Regulated investment alternatives
Investments in Spanish companies are regulated and allowed, but the purchase and sale of a home no longer grants legal residence. But it serves as a basis for requesting it. Therefore, it is crucial to know what the documents are for buying and selling in Ibiza and the Balearic Islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Spanish residence and nationality do not depend on having been a Golden Visa holder. Alternatives to the Golden Visa in Spain also work for achieving resident status as long as you meet the legal requirements. If you want to know more about real estate law in Ibiza, please get in touch with us.
In most cases, yes. The regulations allow you to modify the permit if you meet the requirements.
Yes. The law of aliens is subject to reform. Therefore, you should stay informed about the alternatives to the Golden Visa Spain and have legal advice.
New ways of residency in Spain after the end of the Golden Visa
The elimination of the Golden Visa represents a significant change in Spanish migration policy. Access to residence is no longer based on the purchase of property. But there are alternatives to the Golden Visa in Spain.
Of course, all of them require personalized migration planning, taking into account economic, labor, and individual factors. Correctly analysing each alternative is key to avoiding mistakes and ensuring a stable and law-abiding residence.
Therefore, having specialized legal advice is essential. Talk to a knowledgeable attorney. At Rodríguez Tur Abogados, we help you identify the ideal visa for you, and we support you so that the whole process is agile, comfortable, and hassle-free.
