Spain does not offer a direct citizenship-by-investment program that grants a Spanish passport in exchange for an investment. The former Spain Golden Visa Program, which allowed non-EU citizens to obtain residency through real estate purchases and other qualifying investments, was officially discontinued in 2025.
However, foreign investors, entrepreneurs, remote workers, and individuals with sufficient financial resources can still obtain legal residence in Spain through alternative visa programs. After fulfilling the required residency period and integration conditions, they may apply for Spanish citizenship through naturalization.
1. Moving to Spain Through Alternative Residency Routes
Although investment alone no longer provides a direct residency pathway, several options allow foreigners to establish legal residence in Spain.
Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
The Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for retirees, financially independent individuals, and people with passive income sources who wish to live in Spain without working locally.
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources through:
- Stable income sources
- Savings or investments
- Health insurance coverage
- A clean criminal record
This option is particularly popular among retirees and individuals seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle in Spain.
Entrepreneur Visa
The Entrepreneur Visa is aimed at foreign nationals who want to establish innovative business projects in Spain.
Applicants must submit a detailed business plan demonstrating:
- Innovation and economic value
- Business viability
- Potential job creation
- Contribution to the Spanish economy
Projects are evaluated by the relevant Spanish authorities, including the ENISA (Empresa Nacional de Innovación) assessment process.
Entrepreneurs may also benefit from Spain’s favorable tax regimes, depending on their personal circumstances and eligibility.
Digital Nomad Visa
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers and international professionals to live in Spain while working for companies or clients located outside the country.
Applicants generally need to demonstrate:
- Remote employment or freelance activity
- Sufficient income
- Professional qualifications or experience
- Health insurance and accommodation arrangements
This option has become increasingly attractive for international professionals seeking residency while maintaining foreign employment.
2. The Path from Residency to Spanish Citizenship
Obtaining a residence permit is only the first step. Spanish citizenship requires meeting long-term residency and integration requirements.
Temporary Residence
Most Spanish residence permits are initially granted for limited periods, usually between one and three years depending on the visa category. These permits can generally be renewed if the applicant continues to meet the requirements.
Permanent Residency
After five years of continuous legal residence, foreign nationals may apply for long-term residence in Spain.
Applicants must normally demonstrate:
- Continuous legal residence
- Compliance with Spanish laws
- Stable financial circumstances
Citizenship by Naturalization
After ten years of legal residence, most foreign nationals become eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship.
Shorter residency periods may apply to certain groups, such as citizens of some Latin American countries, Portugal, Andorra, the Philippines, and Equatorial Guinea.
Applicants must usually:
- Demonstrate integration into Spanish society
- Pass the DELE A2 Spanish language examination (unless exempt)
- Pass the CCSE examination, which tests knowledge of Spanish culture, constitution, and social values
- Provide evidence of good civic conduct
3. Dual Citizenship Rules in Spain
Spain’s dual citizenship rules depend largely on the applicant’s country of origin.
In general, Spain requires many naturalized citizens to formally renounce their previous nationality when acquiring Spanish citizenship.
However, Spain allows dual nationality agreements with certain countries, including:
- Most Latin American countries
- Portugal
- Andorra
- The Philippines
- Equatorial Guinea
Citizens from these countries may generally retain their original nationality while becoming Spanish citizens.
Benefits of Spanish Citizenship
Obtaining Spanish citizenship provides significant advantages, including:
- A Spanish passport
- The right to live and work anywhere in the European Union
- Access to EU education and employment opportunities
- Freedom of movement within the Schengen Area
- Eligibility to participate in Spanish and European elections
Important Considerations
Spain remains one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for investors, entrepreneurs, retirees, and remote professionals. However, the country’s current framework focuses on residency pathways followed by naturalization, rather than citizenship through investment.
Because immigration rules, tax regulations, and residency requirements can change, applicants should consult qualified Spanish immigration professionals before beginning the application process.
