Spain Golden Visa Through Real Estate (2026 Update)

Program status (per Q1 2026)

Spain's Golden Visa program, introduced in 2013, grants residency to non-EU nationals who invest at least EUR 500,000 in Spanish real estate. The Spanish government has been reviewing the program since 2024, with discussions about potential modifications or restrictions. As of Q1 2026, the program remains active but check the latest status before relying on it for residency planning.

Relevance for Dutch buyers

As EU citizens, Dutch nationals already have the right to live and work in Spain under EU freedom of movement. The Golden Visa is primarily relevant for non-EU family members or for specific tax planning scenarios. For most Dutch buyers, a standard registration (empadronamiento) and NIE number are sufficient to purchase property and spend time in Spain.

If you plan to spend more than 90 days in any 180-day period, you should register as a resident (certificado de registro de ciudadano de la Union). This is a straightforward administrative process, not a visa application.

Non-EU Golden Visa requirements

For non-EU nationals (relevant if your partner is non-EU):

• Minimum investment: EUR 500,000 in real estate (can be multiple properties)
• Property must be free of encumbrances exceeding the threshold
• Initial visa: 1 year, renewable for 2-year periods
• No minimum stay requirement (unlike standard residency)
• Path to permanent residency after 5 years
• Family members (spouse, children under 18) included

Alternatives for EU citizens

Dutch citizens considering long-term residence in Spain should explore:

Non-lucrative visa: Not needed for EU citizens. This is for non-EU nationals who want to live in Spain without working.

Beckham Law (special tax regime): If you move to Spain for work, you may qualify for the Beckham Law, which taxes your Spanish income at a flat 24% for up to 6 years instead of progressive rates up to 47%. This requires not having been a Spanish tax resident in the prior 5 years.

Standard EU registration: Register at your local Oficina de Extranjeros within 3 months of arrival. You receive a green card (certificado de registro) valid indefinitely. No investment threshold required.

See: Residency programs overview | Living in Spain as a Dutch citizen

Per Q1 2026. Golden Visa terms subject to change. This is informational content, not legal advice. Source: Agencia Tributaria