Sidste chance for et gyldent visum i Spanien: Din trin-for-trin-guide til at overholde deadlinen

If you’ve been considering applying for a Golden Visa in Spain, time is running out. With the program officially being abolished on April 3, 2025, prospective buyers must act swiftly to meet all requirements. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the process, why February 14 (Valentine’s Day) is the true deadline to aim for, and what steps you need to take to secure your Golden Visa before it’s too late.

What is the Golden Visa, and Why is it Ending?

The Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that has attracted thousands of international investors to Spain. By purchasing a property worth at least €500,000, non-EU buyers can gain Spanish residency for themselves and their families. However, the Spanish government announced on January 3, 2025, that the Golden Visa will be abolished as part of legislative changes aimed at addressing housing concerns and speculation in the property market. As a result, all applications must be fully submitted by April 3, 2025.

Why is February 14 the Real Deadline?

While the Golden Visa officially ends on April 3, several logistical steps must be completed before your application can be submitted. Here’s why Valentine’s Day is the critical date:

1. Title Deed and Ownership Registration
   To apply for a Golden Visa, you must be the legal owner of a property in Spain. This process involves signing the title deed at a notary and having your ownership registered at the Land Registry. Spanish law allows the registry up to 15 days to process the title, followed by an additional 5 days to issue the certificate proving ownership.

2. Timeline Backtracking
   If you sign the title deed on February 14, it’s likely that your ownership certificate will be ready by early March, leaving just enough time to gather other documents and submit your application before April 3. Starting later than mid-February may jeopardize your ability to meet the final deadline.

Step-by-Step Timeline for Golden Visa Success

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps you need to follow to secure your Golden Visa:

1. Choose Your Property (Now to February 14)
Start searching for a property immediately. Work with an experienced real estate agent who understands the urgency and can help you identify eligible properties that meet the €500,000 investment threshold.

2. Engage a Lawyer (Immediately)
Hire a lawyer specializing in Spanish real estate and immigration. They can fast-track the legal processes, handle due diligence, and prepare your documents for the Golden Visa application.

3. Negotiate and Reserve (Late January)
Once you find a property, negotiate the terms and sign a reservation contract to secure the purchase. This typically involves a small deposit to take the property off the market.

4. Complete Due Diligence and Sign the Private Purchase Contract (Early February)
Your lawyer will review the property’s legal status, ensuring there are no debts or encumbrances. After due diligence, you’ll sign the Private Purchase Contract (PPC), which is a binding agreement to buy the property.

5. Finalize the Purchase and Sign the Title Deed (By February 14)
Arrange for the full payment of the property and sign the title deed at a notary by Valentine’s Day. Ensure funds are available to avoid delays—mortgages or financing are unlikely to be completed in time.

6. Obtain the Land Registry Certificate (Late February to Early March)
After signing the title deed, it takes approximately 20 days for the Land Registry Certificate to be issued, confirming you as the legal owner of the property.

7. Submit Your Golden Visa Application (March)
Gather the required documents, including your ownership certificate, and submit your Golden Visa application no later than April 2, 2025.

Key Documents You’ll Need

To ensure a smooth application process, prepare the following documents in advance:

• Land Registry Certificate: Proof of property ownership.
• Passport and Identification: Valid ID for all applicants.
• Health Insurance: Coverage in Spain.
• Proof of Investment: Evidence of the €500,000 investment in real estate.
• Proof of Funds: Bank statements or financial documents showing sufficient income.
• Background Checks: Police clearance certificates from your home country.

Your lawyer can guide you through these requirements and help you gather everything on time.

Expert Advice for a Smooth Process

1. Avoid Mortgages
Financing part of the purchase can significantly delay the process. If you’re relying on a mortgage, it’s unlikely you’ll meet the deadline. Ensure your funds are ready for a straightforward purchase.

2. Work with Professionals
Experienced brokers and lawyers can help you navigate Spain’s real estate market and legal requirements efficiently, saving valuable time.

3. Plan for Delays
While it’s possible to meet the deadline, unexpected issues can arise. Starting early and staying organized will help you avoid last-minute problems.

Is it Still Worth Pursuing the Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa offers significant benefits, including:

• Residency for the Entire Family: Spouses and dependents are included.
• Freedom to Travel: Visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone.
• Path to Permanent Residency: Eligibility for long-term residency after five years.
• No Minimum Stay Requirement: Maintain your residency without needing to live in Spain full-time.

Despite its impending abolition, these advantages make the Golden Visa a valuable opportunity for non-EU investors looking to secure residency in Spain.

Final Thoughts: Act Now or Miss Out

The clock is ticking for the Golden Visa in Spain. While April 3 is the official cutoff, the real deadline is February 14—a date that leaves enough time to complete all necessary steps.

If you’re serious about obtaining a Golden Visa, the time to act is now. Start your property search, engage a lawyer, and fast-track the process to secure your place in Spain’s real estate market.

At Hi Homes, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for expert advice, personalized property options, and support in navigating the Golden Visa process.