Spain Visa Options for Non-EU Buyers (2025)

What Changed in 2025 (Golden Visa)

As of 3 April 2025, Spain officially ended residency by real-estate investment
(“Golden Visa” via property). Existing holders retain their status under previous rules, but new applicants
should consider the alternatives below.

Digital Nomad (International Telework)

Best for: employees or freelancers working remotely for non-Spanish companies or clients.

• Income baseline: roughly 200% of the Spanish minimum wage (SMI) for the main applicant — consulates publish exact annual figures.
• Work rule: income should come primarily from outside Spain.
• Validity: visa up to 1 year, then residence up to 3 years (renewable).
• Family: spouse/children can be included with additional means.
• Requirements: private health insurance, clean criminal record, proof of employment or client contracts.

Non-Lucrative Residency

Best for: retirees or those with sufficient passive income/savings who will not work in Spain.

• Means baseline: typically ~400% of IPREM per year for the main applicant, plus ~100% IPREM per dependant (exact figure set by each consulate).
• Work rule: you cannot take employment in Spain; foreign or passive income is acceptable.
• Validity: initial 1 year, then 2 + 2 years if you still qualify.
• Requirements: health insurance, clean criminal record, proof of funds.

Entrepreneur & Highly-Qualified Professional Routes

Suitable for founders with a credible, high-value business plan for Spain, or professionals sponsored by a Spanish company.
Evidence of economic interest, qualifications, and employer or company documentation is essential.

A specialist immigration lawyer should assess eligibility early to confirm the appropriate route and required documentation.

Short Stays (Second-Home Use)

If you simply wish to enjoy your Benahavís home part-time, the standard Schengen 90/180-day rule may suffice.
We’ll help plan your viewings, completion, NIE and bank account setup so you can manage ownership without residency.

Quick Comparison (2025)

How We Help

• We connect you with vetted immigration lawyers to confirm current requirements.
• Coordinate NIE, bank account and POA alongside your property purchase.
• Align viewings, school tours and visa appointments into one coordinated plan.

FAQs

• Can I still buy without a visa?
  Yes — purchasing property doesn’t require a visa; it only affects how long you may stay.
• Does owning a home help my application?
  It demonstrates ties to Spain but is not a visa route itself.
• What about schooling for my children?
  They can enrol once residency is in process — see our schools guide.
• Can I rent my property?
  Yes, with the correct VFT licence and compliance with Andalusian rules — we’ll brief you on Benahavís specifics.
• What are the costs of buying?
  See our Purchase Costs guide.

Next Steps

1. Tell us which route you’re considering — Digital Nomad, Non-Lucrative, Entrepreneur/HQP, or short stays.
2. We’ll introduce legal counsel and confirm the current requirements for your nearest consulate.
3. We’ll align your visa plan with viewing and completion timings in Benahavís.

WhatsApp: +34 733 433 294 or contact us to get started.