The Spanish Golden Visa

The Golden Visa was approved by the Spanish government on September 27, 2013. It allows foreigners, non-Europeans, to invest in real estate in Spain . It authorizes investors, professionals and entrepreneurs to obtain a residence visa and then residence permits.

However, obtaining these certificates can only be acquired after having fulfilled numerous conditions. The first obligation is the amount of the investment. The latter must be a minimum of € 500,000 excluding tax. You can also invest for a greater amount, in bank deposits in Spanish companies or in banking entities, for a minimum amount of one million euros. You can invest in public debt for a value equal to or greater than one million euros.

In order for Spain to regain a better economy, the country is counting on these investments to create jobs, have a socio-economic impact and a contribution of scientific and technological innovations. Thanks to these authorizations, you will make a good placement and will be able to travel freely in Europe with your whole family: spouse, minor children and adult children or economically dependent parents.

Who can claim this Spanish visa?

One of the first conditions for obtaining this visa is that you are over 18 years old. But still, you must be non-European citizens, not have had a criminal record in Spain, or refused entry into one of the Schengen countries. In addition, you must be in possession of a Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) and have taken out valid medical cover in Spain. Finally, your financial resources must be sufficient to live in Spain. A certain amount is required. It currently corresponds to € 533 per month and for each member of your family.

What are the mandatory documents for this type of investment?

Before any visa application, you will present your passport and proof of your affiliation to health insurance. But still, you will prove your intentions to invest and the financial amount you have available (in accordance with that required). The visa, for you as an investor and for all other members of your family, must be requested from the Spanish consulate where you live. The first year, you have a residence permit, then for the next two years, you get a residence permit. The latter is then renewed automatically every five years, as long as you keep an asset with a minimum value of € 500,000. After submitting the file, it takes one to three months before receiving the agreement.

What are the strengths of this visa?

With this visa, you are not required to reside a minimum of six months per year in Spain, unlike other residence permits. Likewise, it allows you freedom of movement throughout the Schengen area, ie most of the European Union. The authorization is accepted easily. With this agreement, you get both a residence permit and a work permit. As an investor, you can bring your family without any difficulty. Finally, you can apply for this visa yourself, but you can also designate a representative, including a real estate agency, who will take the necessary steps on your behalf.

What are the tax regulations in Spain for investors?

If you do not decide to be resident in Spain, your worldwide income and property will not be taxed in the country. On the other hand, you will have to pay taxes on the purchase of your Spanish real estate and on the value of your assets, such as rental income from the rental of your real estate ... At the time of investment, you you have to pay tax on the transfer of ownership. It is a percentage between 4 and 11% depending on its geographical location. You will also have to pay the notary's fees in the amount of 1% on the value of the property. Finally, in the event of a sale, you will pay a tax on the capital gain.

Who is authorized to help you obtain the Golden Visa?

If the visa is accepted easily, the fact remains that the administrative procedures are not always easy. There is already the acquisition of the real estate (s), the language problem, the certification of the many documents including those which prove your investment ... Our French-speaking real estate agency, located in Spain on the Costa Brava, offers you accompany and advise you for your real estate purchase project in Spain. You will benefit from our experience with local and foreign customers, and above all, you will be able to communicate in your mother tongue