Why Move to Spain?
Primly located in the heart of Europe, Spain is the ideal choice for those investors who wish to reap benefits from the European market, while still being granted easy access to the rest of the world. And that is not all. The government has devised an extremely enticing Residency by Investment program, also known as the Spain Golden Visa, to incentivize major investments in the country’s economy. The best way to partake in it is through the purchase of Real Estate. In relocating to Spain, you and your entire family are eligible for many of the same perks Spanish citizens enjoy, such as visa-free travel through the Schengen area.
Fast facts
Once upon a time, Spain boasted the world’s most powerful empire. This influence has reached all corners of the world. This legacy lives on today, especially when it comes to the language. Spoken natively in Spain and many of the countries of the Americas, Spanish is the world’s fourth most spoken language when accounting for both native speakers and second-language learners.
Many may think of flamenco as a style of dance, but the Spanish classify it as so much more. It is an expression of art, merging dance, song, poetry and passion, and it truly is a Spanish cultural staple. In 2010, flamenco was recognized by UNESCO and inscribed in the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
We can help you in making relocating to Spain an easy and effortless experience. Our team of experts and advisors at Investment Visa stand ready to listen to your needs, answer any questions you may have and devise a plan that suits you and your investor profile
- Population: 47,515.00
- Capital City: Madrid
- Climate: Spain is the most climactically diverse country in Europe. Depending on the region of the country, the climate can range from hot summers and cold winters in the interior, and moderate summers and mild winters along the coast.
- Time Zone: CET (Central European Time)
- Language: Officially Castilian Spanish; with many other recognized regional languages, such as Catalan, Galician, and Basque.
- Country Code: +34
- Currency: EURO
- Economy: Tourism, pharmaceuticals manufacturing, automobile industry, agriculture
- GDP Per/Cap: US$30,058
- Borders: Portugal, Andorra, France, Morocco, Gibraltar
Lifestyle
Basking in the sunlight for over 3000 hours in a year, moving to Spain means embarking on a new journey and embracing a more relaxed Mediterranean way of life. The famous siesta, a break in the middle of the day, has become a cultural foundation of Spanish daily life. Because of this, it is common for dinner to be had late at night, at around 10 pm. Family and community are key, and the Spanish have no issues in displaying their affection.
Cost of living
Out of all the countries in Europe, Spain is right in the middle when considering the cost of living, being far more affordable to live in comparison to some other European countries, such as France, Germany and the United Kingdom. Even so, this is mostly because of the large cities averaging out the smaller towns.
Safety
Be rest assured, if you are relocating to Spain, you will be in a safe country. While Spain boasts both a low crime rate and a low level of violent occurrences, it is advised to be careful, especially in the big cities such as Barcelona and Madrid, particularly when it comes to pickpocketing.
Healthcare
Private medical insurance is always advised if you are moving abroad, but even if it is not something you are considering right now, you can take comfort in knowing that Spain is a country with a broad and wide public safety net. In fact, Spain is in the top ten for the best healthcare systems in the world.
Education
The Spanish educational system is on par with the rest of Europe. While school results on all subjects have historically been underwhelming, Spain is making an active effort to improve across the board and has been quite successful at it, especially in the Castile and Leon region, with the School Learning Environment plan. When it comes to tertiary education, Spain boasts several internationally renowned public and private universities and offers a wide array of programs for any interested in learning Spanish.
Language
While Castilian Spanish is the official language of the country, Spain has much more regional diversity with languages, such as Catalan, Galician and Basque. Even though the country is a hub for worldwide tourism, it is advisable to learn the basics and try the basics of the language, especially if you are relocating to Spain.
Money and taxes
As a country both in the Schengen Area as well as in the Eurozone, Spain is properly integrated into both the European and world markets. For those keen to invest in the Spain Golden Visa program, bear in mind that Spain has its own tax system, with different laws for residents and non-residents. It is always a clever idea to seek out counsel. InvestmentVisa has experts on these matters ready to help you.
Popular Destinations
Barcelona
Seville
Canary Islands
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Download Our BrochureDo I Need a Visa to Move to Spain?
Citizens from any country in the European Union (EU) or in the European Economic Area (EEA) have the right to live, travel, work and access the Spanish healthcare system. They do not need a visa to enter the country, but there are extra steps to take if they wish to make Spain their residence.
Citizens from other countries around the world can still come to enjoy many of the same benefits as EU citizens and residents. The best way to do so is through the Spain Golden Visa program, which allows investors to obtain Spanish Residency. There are multiple ways to do this, and our experts and advisors are ready to provide you with the best and fastest Real Estate opportunities.
Moving to Spain as an EU citizen
Considering Spain is a well-established member of the Schengen Area, any citizen from the EU or EEA (European Economic Area) has the right to travel, work and invest in Spain without a visa. Residency or Citizenship may not seem necessary if you already are a citizen of any of these countries, but it must be considered if you are looking to stay in Spain for more than three months, settle your family in Spain, or enjoy specific Spanish tax benefits.
Moving to Spain as a non-EU citizen
By becoming a resident through the Spain Golden Visa program, you are eligible for many of the same benefits Spanish people enjoy. These include visa-free travel to all countries within the Schengen Area and access to generally free or very affordable healthcare not only in Spain but also in other Schengen countries. It also opens the path to citizenship.
Moving to Spain Through Investment Visa Programs
Spain is a worthwhile country for a temporary visit, but it is also among the best countries to live in the European Union. From rich, diverse and vibrant cultures, to a diverse range of climates, enticing those who enjoy the beach and the snow alike, as well as people with a powerful sense of community and family, moving to Spain becomes an effortless decision.
The Spain Golden Visa program provides the opportunity for both the investor and their families to become Residents and enjoy the many benefits and perks that Spain has to offer. Introduced in 2013, the program has benefited over 7000 people.
How can I gain Citizenship in Spain?
How to obtain Permanent Residency in Spain?
It can be difficult to obtain citizenship in any of the countries in the European Union, and Spain is no different. However, having Residency in Spain is being one step ahead. Becoming a naturalized citizen through the Spanish Golden Visa framework is not guaranteed, but it is possible after living full-time in the country for ten years.
There are multiple ways of becoming a Spanish resident and enjoy the country’s many perks and benefits. The best and fastest option is through the Spain Golden Visa framework. The government offers the keen investor several options, ranging from a bank deposit, government bonds or purchase of shares. However, the most popular and most profitable choice is through Real Estate investments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pros: Key location, as it is close to the rest of Europe, while also having access to the rest of the world via the Atlantic. A remarkably easy and fast Golden Visa application process.
Cons: Language barrier, as English is not a widely spoken language among locals. A different rhythm and way of approaching life, which might be different from your situation.
For the short term, it is not necessary, as language and cultural tests are not required. However, if you wish to obtain Permanent Residency, the program asks that, in a total of five years, you do not spend more than eleven months outside of Spain. Considering this, it is always advisable to try to learn the language. This will help you immerse in all aspects of daily life, better understand the Spanish culture, and allow you to communicate with millions of Spanish-speaking people from all over the world.
Yes. Through the Spain Golden Visa framework, you can bring your family with you. Your spouse, any children under the age of 18 and any other family members that are dependent on you, under the condition of presenting financial proof of their dependency, or if they have a health condition which renders them unable to provide for themselves.
There is no right answer as to what the best city is. Madrid, the capital, is always a viable choice, especially if you love the sun. Barcelona sits along the coast, with the Mediterranean as its constant companion. Seville offers an alternative solution, being close to both beach and mountains. Regardless of your choice, moving to Spain is not something you will regret.
If you are considering moving to Spain through the Golden Visa program and taking the Real Estate route, you will need to consider the initial investment of €500,000 as well as additional taxes and other bureaucratic fees associated with the transaction. The taxes on residential purchases may vary from 6% to 12% and up to 25% on commercial purchases.
No. If you have your documents in order and are ready to make the investment, you can acquire a residence permit and be living in Spain within 60 days from the moment the application is submitted. With our team of InvestmentVisa advisors, you do not need to worry about it. We will take care of the process for you.
Yes. The Spanish Golden Visa program has many requirements. However, having a job is not one of them. If you can make and keep the initial investment, you are able to support yourself while you live in Spain, among other conditions, the Program makes no mention of a job being necessary.
Paul Smith
Investment Advisor
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