Spain Residence for Indian Citizens: Live Routes After the Golden Visa Closed

Spain's Golden Visa gave non-EU nationals, including Indian nationals, residence in return for a qualifying investment in the country. Spain ended this route on 3 April 2025. From that date the Spanish authorities stopped accepting new Golden Visa applications, and the investment options that once led to residence no longer apply.

If you already hold a permit obtained through this route, its renewal depends on your individual circumstances, so confirm your position with a licensed Spanish immigration adviser. If you are planning a move now, the live routes further down this page are the ones open to Indian nationals.

Background: Spain officially closes the Golden Visa programme.

1. Access to the Schengen Area . Spain is part of the Schengen Agreement, allowing residents to travel freely within the Schengen Area, which includes most European countries. This facilitates easy exploration of Europe.

2. High quality of life . Spain offers a high quality of life with a pleasant Mediterranean climate, beautiful landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. It is known for its relaxed lifestyle and vibrant culture.

3. Education and healthcare . Spain has public and private healthcare systems. Access and costs depend on your residence category, work status, insurance and registration, so confirm the rules that apply to you.

4. Diverse job opportunities . Spain has a diverse economy with opportunities in various industries. Major cities like Barcelona and Madrid are hubs for business and technology.

5. Cultural richness . Spain is renowned for its rich culture, including art, music, festivals, and cuisine. Residents can enjoy both old architecture and vibrant modern quarters.

6. Political stability and safety . Spain is known for its political stability and relatively low crime rates, providing a safe environment for residents.

7. Real estate investment . Spain’s property market offers investment opportunities, whether for rental income or long-term capital growth. Residents can take advantage of local property markets.

Before 3 April 2025, Indian nationals could gain Spanish residence by making a qualifying investment in Spain, most often the purchase of real estate. Applicants also had to hold health insurance, show a clean record and prove independent income, and close family members could be included in the same application.

This route is now closed. The former investment amounts, application steps and processing times are historical and cannot be used for a new application. For the routes that remain open to Indian nationals, see the section below.

Several residence routes remain open to Indian nationals who want to live in Spain. Each has its own conditions, and the income and savings thresholds are set by the Spanish authorities and change over time, so confirm the current figures with a licensed Spanish immigration adviser before you apply.

Non-lucrative residence visa. Suited to people with enough independent income or savings to support themselves in Spain without working locally, such as retirees and the financially independent.

Digital nomad visa. For people who work remotely for employers or clients based outside Spain.

Student visa. For those accepted onto a recognised Spanish course or degree who can show funds and health insurance for their stay.

Work and Highly Qualified Professional routes. For people with a job offer from a Spanish employer. A separate route exists for highly qualified professionals.

Family reunification. For close family members of a Spanish resident or citizen, and for family members of EU citizens.

To find the route that fits your situation, speak to a licensed Spanish immigration adviser.

Getting integrated into Spanish society as an Indian expatriate is a rewarding experience but also comes with its challenges. Here is how you can make your life easier in a new country.

1. Learn the language . While English is spoken in some urban areas, especially by the younger generation, speaking Spanish will greatly enhance your ability to communicate and connect with locals. Enroll in Spanish language classes, use language learning apps, and practice speaking with native speakers.

2. Understand Spanish culture . Take the time to familiarize yourself with Spanish culture, traditions, and social norms. Learn about meal times, local customs, and holidays. Be open to embracing Spanish culture and participating in local festivities and events.

3. Make local friends . Join local clubs, hobby groups, or community organizations to meet people who share your interests. Engage in conversations, attend social events, and be open to making new friends.

4. Respect local customs and etiquette . Show respect for Spanish customs, traditions, and etiquette. Learn how to address people in formal and informal situations. Understand the importance of punctuality and politeness in social interactions.

5. Explore local cuisine . Spanish cuisine is diverse and delicious. Try local dishes and explore the culinary culture. Dining out is a great way to experience the local flavours and meet people. Don't be shy about trying new foods, and be open to sharing meals with others. And remember: you can never go wrong with Paella Valenciana.

6. Stay informed . Keep up with local news and events to stay informed about what's happening in Spain. This will help you know about local issues and interests and engage in conversations.

7. Stay patient and persistent . Integration takes time, so be patient with yourself and the process. Don't get discouraged by initial challenges or language barriers. Keep making efforts to connect with people and adapt to the culture.

8. Stay legal. Know your legal rights and responsibilities as an expatriate in Spain. Keep your paperwork in order, such as your residence permit and tax obligations.

Spain closed its Golden Visa, the route that granted residence in return for an investment, to new applicants on 3 April 2025. The former investment amounts and application steps no longer apply.

Indian nationals can still move to Spain through other routes: the non-lucrative residence visa, the digital nomad visa, student visas, work and Highly Qualified Professional routes, and family reunification. The income and savings thresholds for these routes are set by the Spanish authorities and change over time, so confirm the current figures with a licensed adviser.

Living in Spain still offers access to the Schengen Area, a high quality of life, strong education and healthcare, and a rich culture. If you already hold a permit from the former investor route, confirm your renewal position with a licensed Spanish immigration adviser.