Spain has officially ended the Golden Visa programme. We explain how the rules for property purchase, financing and residency are changing in 2026.
Spain has officially ended the Golden Visa programme that for years had allowed foreign investors to obtain residency through property investment.
For many clients, the Golden Visa was one of the simplest ways to move to Spain, invest on the Costa del Sol and secure legal residency for the whole family. 2026 changes this completely.
What was Spain's Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa was a residency programme for non-EU citizens. It worked simply: a client invested a minimum of €500,000 in real estate and could obtain Spanish residency for themselves and their family.
The programme was particularly popular with clients from the UK, US, Russia, China, Morocco, the Middle East and Latin America. Many investors used it to acquire luxury property, relocate to the Costa del Sol and obtain a European residency.
Why did Spain scrap the Golden Visa?
The main reason was rising property prices in major cities and premium areas. The government argues that the programme fuelled speculative investment, drove up housing prices and hurt local affordability.
Strong pressure also came from the European Union, which has long criticised investor visa schemes due to money-laundering risks, opaque capital and security concerns.
Today Spain focuses more on clients who actually live, do business, work remotely or build long-term lives in the country.
What does the end of the Golden Visa mean for foreign investors?
Previously it was enough to buy property worth more than €500,000 to obtain residency. That route is now closed. It does not mean foreign clients can no longer buy property, invest or move to the Costa del Sol — it simply means the whole process now requires a properly designed strategy.
Alternatives to the Golden Visa
Digital Nomad Visa Spain
One of the most popular options in 2026. Designed for freelancers, online entrepreneurs, remote workers and employees of foreign companies. It allows legal residency in Spain while working for foreign clients or employers.
Non-Lucrative Visa Spain
A frequent choice for clients with passive income, savings, investments or pension. It does not allow employment in Spain but is popular among those who wish to change lifestyle and move to the Costa del Sol.
Autónomo and corporate structures
Many clients today handle relocation through entrepreneurship, freelance activity, setting up a company or investment structures. Correctly designed administration, taxation and residency are more important than ever.
The Costa del Sol remains one of Europe's most sought-after locations
Despite the changes, the Costa del Sol remains one of the most attractive destinations for investors, entrepreneurs, digital nomads, families and clients seeking higher quality of life. Marbella, Estepona and Benahavís continue to grow thanks to climate, safety, the international community, luxury property, golf and gastronomy.
Mortgages and financing after the Golden Visa
Banks now examine in much greater depth the origin of income, tax residency, type of residency, banking compliance and client documentation. A well-designed relocation strategy, legal support, financing and document coordination are therefore more important than ever.
Relocation today requires planning
Moving to Spain today is not only about buying a property. Clients address residency, taxes, health insurance, business, schools, financing and the full lifestyle setup on the Costa del Sol — which is why demand for professional relocation and concierge services keeps growing.
How Dellara Group can help
At Dellara Group we help our clients handle relocation to Spain professionally, discreetly and without unnecessary complications. We support relocation, administration, real estate, financing, legal coordination and the full life setup on the Costa del Sol.
