Spain, with its rich culture, vibrant lifestyle, and thriving economy, has become a sought-after destination for individuals and families looking to obtain a residency permit through the Golden Visa program. The Golden Visa allows non-EU citizens to live, work, and study in Spain while enjoying numerous benefits. If you’re considering applying for the Golden Visa Spain, this comprehensive step-by-step guide will walk you through the application process.
Step 1: Understand the Golden Visa Program:
Before diving into the application process, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the Golden Visa program in Spain. The program was introduced in 2013 and investor visa Spain grants residency to individuals who make a significant investment in Spain, such as buying real estate, investing in a business, or contributing to Spanish public debt.
Step 2: Determine Eligibility:
To be eligible for the Golden Visa Spain, you must meet certain requirements. These typically include being a non-EU citizen, being at least 18 years old, having a clean criminal record, and possessing sufficient funds to cover your investment and living expenses in Spain.
Step 3: Choose Your Investment Option:
The Golden Visa program offers various investment options, and you’ll need to select the one that suits your preferences and financial capabilities. The most common options include investing in real estate (minimum investment of €500,000), investing in Spanish companies or stocks (minimum investment of €1,000,000), or contributing to public debt (minimum investment of €2,000,000).
Step 4: Gather the Required Documentation:
To apply for the Golden Visa Spain, you’ll need to prepare a set of documents. These typically include a valid passport, proof of legal entry and stay in Spain (if applicable), a medical insurance policy, a certificate of criminal record from your home country, and proof of your investment, such as property deeds, company shares, or debt contribution certificates. It’s essential to ensure that all documents are translated into Spanish and legalized if necessary.
Step 5: Establish a Spanish Bank Account:
To facilitate your investment and financial transactions in Spain, it’s advisable to open a bank account with a Spanish bank. This will allow you to transfer the necessary funds and handle financial matters smoothly during your application process and subsequent stay in the country.
Step 6: Submit the Application:
Once you have gathered all the required documentation and prepared your investment, it’s time to submit your application for the Golden Visa Spain. This is typically done at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country or at the corresponding immigration office in Spain. Ensure that all forms are completed accurately and include all the necessary supporting documents.
Step 7: Pay the Relevant Fees:
When submitting your application, you’ll be required to pay the associated fees. These fees cover the administrative costs and processing of your Golden Visa application. The fees can vary depending on the investment option you choose, so it’s essential to check the current fee structure beforehand.
Step 8: Await Approval and Obtain Residency Card:
After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for the Spanish authorities to review and process your application. The processing time can vary, but it generally takes several months. Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a residency card, commonly known as the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE), which will serve as your identification document during your stay in Spain.
Step 9: Renew Your Residency Card:
The Golden Visa Spain grants an initial residency permit of one year, after which you can renew it for an additional two years. To renew your residency card, you’ll need to provide updated documentation, including proof of your investment and continued compliance with the program’s requirements. After five years of legal residency