How to Move to Spain Without a Golden Visa

Spain has long been a favorite destination for people around the world looking to relocate. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, quality healthcare, cultural richness, and affordable cost of living, it offers a lifestyle many dream of. But after the Golden Visa program ended in 2024, the question “How can I move to Spain?” has resurfaced. Fortunately, there are still plenty of other residence permit options in Spain available.

In this article, we’ll walk you through all the visa types available apart from the Golden Visa, the steps required to live legally in Spain, and the residence processes you need to follow. We’ll also explain how you can still buy property through these alternative routes and provide advice on moving to Spain.Spanish Flag

Alternatives to the Golden Visa: What Other Visas Allow You to Live in Spain?

If you’re planning to live in Spain long-term, there are various types of visas to choose from—some allow you to work, while others let you stay without earning income. Here are the most popular options, and it’s also important to note that there are other visa options available for specific purposes. These include the Student Visa, Family Reunification Visa, and the Intra-Company Transfer Residence Visa, which may also provide pathways to long-term residency in Spain, depending on your circumstances.

1. Non-Lucrative Visa Spain

This visa is perfect for those who want to live in Spain without working. It’s ideal for retirees, freelancers, or financially independent individuals. With this visa, you can legally reside in Spain and even purchase property to settle down.

2. Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Thanks to technology, there are now visa options specifically designed for remote workers. Digital nomad visa Spain allows you to legally live in the country while working for companies abroad.

It provides not just legal residence but also access to Spain’s high quality of life. As with other visas, digital nomads can also buy real estate in Spain.

3. Spain Retirement Visa

This visa is tailored to retirees who can prove they receive a regular pension. There’s no need for additional income—just proof of financial stability and valid health insurance is enough to qualify.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spain Visas

Are there long-term visa options for Spain?

The visa types mentioned earlier are mostly for short-term or temporary stays. If you're planning to stay in Spain for the long haul, there are also long-term residency permits available. These include the National Long-Term Residence Permit, which you can apply for after legally residing in Spain for five uninterrupted years, and the EU Long-Term Residence Permit, which offers additional benefits like easier mobility within the EU. Both options grant more permanent legal status and greater stability for eligible residents.

Is it hard to get a Spain visa?

Spain has streamlined its immigration processes. If your documents are in order, the process is usually smooth—especially through BLS Spain visa centers, with all the Spain visa documents required ready to go.

What documents do I need for a Spain visa?

Most Spain visa applications require standard documents like:Documents Needed for Spanish Visa

  • A valid passport

  • Health insurance

  • Criminal record certificate

  • Biometric photo

  • Proof of income

You’ll also need specific documents depending on the visa type, so it’s best to check the latest Spain visa requirements for your chosen visa.

Residency for Exceptional Circumstances

Moving in Spain has recently been made easier with updated immigration laws, offering more flexibility for work permits, digital nomads, and long-term settlement options.

What is the Arraigo Program?

The Arraigo program allows undocumented immigrants who have lived in Spain for a certain time to apply for legal residency and work permits. It’s designed to help integrate long-term residents into society.

Main Types of Arraigo:

  • Arraigo Social (Social Roots): Requires 3 years of residence, a job offer, and an integration report.

  • Arraigo Familiar (Family Ties): For those with Spanish or legally resident family members—no minimum residency required.

  • Arraigo Laboral (Work History): Requires proof of working for at least 6 months in the past 2 years.

  • Arraigo para la Formación (For Training): Lets you apply for residency through vocational training if you’ve lived in Spain for 2 years.

What Do You Get Through Arraigo?

  • One-year renewable residence and work permit

  • Legal right to work (employed or self-employed)

  • Access to health care, education, and social services

  • Possibility to switch to long-term residence later

Recent Changes (From 2025 Onward):

  • Required residency reduced from 3 years to 2

  • Some categories were replaced or updated

  • Family ties category now includes financial requirements

  • New “Second Chance” category introduced

Temporary Residency Permits

If you’re planning to live in Spain on a temporary basis, there are several visa options that can allow you to reside legally while pursuing different goals such as studying, working, or reuniting with family members. Here are a few of the most common temporary residency permits:Student Visa

  1. Student Visa
    Recent reforms now allow student visa holders to work more easily. Students can work limited hours during their studies without needing a separate work permit—as long as the job doesn’t interfere with their academic schedule. This makes it easier to cover living expenses and transition into employment after graduation. Additionally, student visa holders are allowed to buy property during their stay—making it an attractive option for those planning to stay longer.

  2. Family Reunification Visa
    This visa allows family members of those already residing in Spain to join them. It’s ideal for those who have a relative working or living legally in Spain and want to live with them.

So, Is Moving to Spain a Good Idea?

The Benefits of Moving to Spain:

  • High quality of life

  • Excellent healthcare system

  • Great weather

  • Low crime rates

  • Large expat communities that ease the transition

Things to Know Before Moving to Spain:

  • You’ll need an NIE number for most official tasks like banking or buying property

  • Health insurance is mandatory

  • Make sure your legal status is settled before signing a rental contract

Can You Still Buy Property in Spain Without a Golden Visa?

Yes! Even without the Golden Visa, you can buy real estate in Spain. Anyone holding a valid residence permit—such as a non lucrative visa Spain, Spain work visa, or nomad visa Spain—can legally purchase property.Tips for Those Planning to Move to Spain

In fact, owning property can strengthen your case when extending or modifying your residency status.

Final Tips for Those Planning to Move to Spain

  • Start preparing early—make a checklist of what you need

  • Be patient with paperwork, and allow time for translations and apostilles

  • Join expat groups or online forums for advice for expats moving to Spain and community

  • If you’re planning to buy a home, research the real estate investment market and consider working with a local advisor.

Let Us Help You

Is moving to Spain worth it? For many people, the answer is a clear yes—especially for remote workers, retirees, or anyone considering the cost of moving to Spain and looking for a fresh start.

The end of the Golden Visa doesn’t mean the dream is over. On the contrary, residence by settlement in Spain is now more accessible than ever, and there are many ways to make it happen.

If you’re planning a move and thinking of buying property, get in touch with our expert team—we’re here to help you every step of the way.