Beyond the Golden Visa: Alternative routes to live in Spain
The idea of living in Spain, with its exceptional climate, unparalleled lifestyle, and safety, is a dream for many investors, professionals, and retirees from around the world. For years, the "Golden Visa" has been the most well-known route to obtain residency through a real estate investment. But is it the only option? And is it always the best?The idea of living in Spain, with its exceptional climate, unparalleled lifestyle, and safety, is a dream for many investors, professionals, and retirees from around the world. For years, the "Golden Visa" has been the most well-known route to obtain residency through a real estate investment. But is it the only option? And is it always the best?
In a changing regulatory environment and with an ongoing European debate about these programs, more informed clients are seeking smarter, more flexible, and strategic solutions. The reality is that Spain offers a range of visas and residence permits that can be much better tailored to your personal and financial goals.
In this ultimate guide from Zaino's Capital, we demystify the alternatives to the Golden Visa. We are not just your real estate advisors; we are your strategic consultants. We will help you understand which path to residency in Spain is ideal for you and how a smart real estate investment, regardless of its amount, can be the cornerstone of your life project.
The current landscape of residency by investment in July 2025
The concept of "residency by investment" is in full evolution. It is essential to understand that the goal is not just to "buy a visa," but to build a stable future in Spain. While the Golden Visa (or investor visa) requires a significant initial outlay (€500,000 in real estate, free of encumbrances), the following alternatives focus more on your profile, your financial solvency, or your business project, offering a flexibility that can be much more interesting.
Comparative analysis: The 4 most powerful residency pathways
Next, we analyze the most important pathways. To facilitate understanding, we have created this comparative table and will then delve deeper into each of them.
Characteristic | Non-Profit Residence | Golden Visa (Investor) | Entrepreneur Visa | Digital Nomad Visa |
Ideal Profile | Retirees, people with passive income. | High capital investors. | Entrepreneurs with an innovative project. | Remote professionals with clients outside of Spain. |
Minimum Investment | None (demonstrate solvency). | €500,000 in assets. | None (demonstrate project feasibility). | None (demonstrate stable income). |
Allows Working | No (at least the first year). | Yes, for the headline. | Yes, in the project itself. | Yes, for companies outside of Spain. |
Key to Success | Demonstrate sufficient economic means. | Make the qualified investment. | Solid and interesting business plan for Spain. | Contracts and proof of remote income. |
Flexibility | High. It doesn't tie you to an investment. | Drop. Tied to maintaining the investment. | Media. Tied to the success of the project. | High. Tied to your employment situation. |
The Non-Profit Residence: The Hidden Gem for a Peaceful Life
This is undoubtedly one of the most attractive and least understood visas. It is designed for those individuals who have sufficient financial means to reside in Spain without the need to engage in any work activity in the country.
Who is the Non-Profit Residence ideal for?
It is the perfect option for retirees, early retirees, or people living on income (rentals, dividends, passive income) who wish to enjoy their life in Mallorca or any other part of Spain.
Key Requirements 2025
- Economic Solvency: It is the pillar of this application. You must demonstrate that you have recurring monthly income or a bank balance equivalent to 400% of the IPREM (Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income) for the main applicant. For 2025, this translates to approximately €2,400 per month or €28,800 available in the account. For each additional family member, an extra 100% of the IPREM (about €600 per month) must be accredited.
- Private Health Insurance: You must purchase a health insurance policy without copayments from an entity authorized to operate in Spain.
- Criminal Record Certificate: Clean, from the countries where you have resided in the last 5 years.
- Medical Certificate: Certifying that you do not suffer from diseases with repercussions for public health.
The role of housing: Although purchasing a property is not required, having a home (whether owned or with a long-term rental contract) greatly strengthens the application, as it demonstrates your ties and your firm intention to reside in Spain.
The entrepreneur visa: Your project as a passport
If your goal is to develop an innovative business idea in Spain, this is your way. It does not focus on how much money you invest, but on the quality and potential of your project.
What is considered a project of "interest to Spain"?
- Innovation: That brings something new to the Spanish market.
- Job Creation: It is one of the most valued factors.
- Socioeconomic Impact: To create value in the area where it is established.
- Applicant Profile: Your experience and ability to carry out the project are valued.
The process requires the preparation of a very detailed business plan that must be approved by the Economic and Commercial Office of Spain in your country. Once approved, the path to residency is very smooth.
The visa for digital nomads: work from paradise
Recently approved, this visa is designed for professionals who work remotely for companies located outside of Spain.
Key differences with non-lucrative residency
The big difference is that this visa DOES allow you to work, as long as it is for clients or companies that are not Spanish. The solvency requirements are similar to those of the non-lucrative visa, but they must be demonstrated through employment or commercial contracts that prove a labor or professional relationship of at least one year and stable income. Additionally, it offers a very advantageous tax regime, being taxed under the Non-Resident Income Tax (IRNR).
Conclusion
What is your ideal residency strategy?
As we have seen, the Golden Visa is just one piece of the puzzle. The right choice depends on a deep reflection on your circumstances and goals:
- If you are looking for a golden retirement or to live off your income without complications, the Non-Profit Residence is probably your best option. It is more flexible and economical.
- If you have a large capital and are looking for a residence that also allows you to work without constraints, the Golden Visa remains a direct and solid option.
- If your engine is an innovative business project, the Entrepreneur Visa is the path specifically designed for you.
- If you are a remote professional, the Digital Nomad Visa offers you the freedom to work from a place like Mallorca with tax benefits.
Your property in Spain is not just an investment; it is the center of your life project. Choosing the right home in the right location is a step that goes hand in hand with your residency strategy.
Navigating through these options can be complex. At Zaino's Capital, our service goes beyond real estate brokerage. We offer you comprehensive strategic consulting to align your residency plan with the search for your ideal property in Mallorca or anywhere in Spain.
Contact us today.
Let us help you take the first step towards your new life in Spain with the security and confidence that only an expert can offer you.