Spain Golden Visa holders can transition to permanent residency by residing in Spain for five years, showing ties to the country, integrating into society, and meeting language and culture requirements.
Spain Golden Visa holders can transition to permanent residency by meeting specific requirements over a period of time. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this transition:
1. Maintain the Qualifying Investment
- Continuous Investment: To be eligible for permanent residency, Golden Visa holders must maintain their qualifying investment in Spain for at least five years. This investment can be in real estate, government bonds, bank deposits, or a qualifying business project.
- Proof of Investment: Throughout the five-year period, it’s crucial to keep all relevant documentation that proves the investment is intact, such as property ownership papers, bank statements, or business registration documents.
2. Fulfill Residency Requirements
- Minimal Residency Requirement: Spain’s Golden Visa program has very flexible residency requirements. To maintain the Golden Visa and qualify for permanent residency, holders must visit Spain at least once per year. There is no requirement to reside full-time in Spain during the five years leading up to permanent residency.
- Living in Spain: While minimal residency is required to maintain the Golden Visa, those aiming for permanent residency should consider spending more time in Spain to meet additional requirements if they plan to apply for citizenship later.
3. Apply for Permanent Residency After Five Years
- Eligibility After Five Years: After holding the Golden Visa for five years and maintaining the required investment, holders can apply for permanent residency. This status allows them to live and work in Spain indefinitely without the need to renew their visa every few years.
- Application Process: The application for permanent residency must be submitted to the Spanish immigration authorities. Required documents typically include proof of the investment, proof of continuous residency (even minimal), a valid passport, health insurance, and financial stability evidence.
4. Benefits of Permanent Residency
- Indefinite Stay: Permanent residents can stay in Spain indefinitely and have access to the same rights as Spanish citizens, including access to healthcare, education, and social services.
- Freedom to Work: Permanent residency allows you to work in any job or start your own business without needing additional permits.
- EU Mobility: Permanent residents may also benefit from greater ease of travel and residency within other EU countries, although specific rights can vary by country.
5. Pathway to Citizenship
- Citizenship Application: After ten years of legal residency, including the five years of permanent residency, Golden Visa holders can apply for Spanish citizenship. Applicants must demonstrate integration into Spanish society, including basic knowledge of the Spanish language and culture.
- Residency Requirements: Unlike the Golden Visa, applying for citizenship requires more substantial residency in Spain, usually at least six months per year during the qualifying period.
Summary
Spain Golden Visa holders can transition to permanent residency after five years by maintaining their investment and meeting minimal residency requirements. The application process involves submitting proof of investment and other necessary documents to Spanish authorities. Permanent residency grants the right to live and work in Spain indefinitely and provides a pathway to Spanish citizenship after ten years of legal residency. For detailed guidance, it is advisable to consult resources like Movingto.io and official Spanish immigration websites.