In January 2025, the Spanish government officially announced the termination of its Golden Visa program. This decision was enacted under Organic Law 1/2025 and came into effect for new applicants on April 3, 2025.
The Spanish Golden Visa program, which had long been one of the most popular methods for obtaining European residency through real estate investment, is no longer available.
Official Reasons for Cancelling the Spanish Golden Visa Program
The Spanish government cited the following reasons for ending the program:
- Preventing uncontrolled increases in housing prices in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona
- Improving local citizens’ access to affordable housing
- Curbing speculation and real estate brokerage practices
The main goal of this decision was to support the housing market and meet the real needs of Spanish residents.
Risks and Challenges of Obtaining Residency in Spain Under Current Conditions
In times of crisis—such as war, international sanctions, or political-economic instability—European embassies may temporarily close or restrict consular services. Additionally, accessing international bank accounts can become seriously problematic.
In such scenarios, applicants may face significant costs related to legal fees, frequent embassy visits, and complex legal follow-ups to renew residency or resolve financial issues.
Therefore, it is crucial to carefully assess and plan for these risks and costs before proceeding.
Alternative Legal Pathways for Obtaining Spanish Residency and Citizenship in 2025 for Iranians
Although the Golden Visa program has been canceled, several legal pathways still exist for Iranians seeking residency in Spain:
- Work Visa
- Obtain a job offer from a Spanish employer
- One-year work residency with the option to renew up to permanent residency
- Citizenship application possible after 10 years of legal residence
- Student Visa + Conversion to Work Residency
- Begin studies at a Spanish university
- Switch to a work visa after graduation
- Part of the study period counts toward the residency requirement for citizenship
- Non-Lucrative Visa
- Does not allow employment in Spain
- Requires proof of stable monthly income from abroad
- One-year initial residency, renewable up to 5+ years
- Digital Nomad Visa
- Ideal for freelancers or remote workers employed by foreign companies
- Minimum monthly income of €2,520
- Initial 3-year residency with renewal options and a pathway to permanent residency
- Citizenship through Marriage
- Eligible to apply for citizenship after one year of marriage and cohabitation with a Spanish citizen
- Must pass language and cultural integration exams
- Long-Term Legal Residency
- For individuals who have legally resided in Spain for 10 consecutive years
- Must pass DELE A2 Spanish language exam and CCSE cultural test
- Must demonstrate integration through employment, education, or insurance
Spain’s Policy on Dual Citizenship
Spain generally does not allow dual citizenship. Therefore, Iranians who acquire Spanish citizenship are, by law, expected to renounce their original nationality. However, in practice, this rule is not always strictly enforced.
Frequently Asked Questions about Residency in Spain
- Is the Spanish Golden Visa still valid in 2025?
No, the program was closed to new applicants as of April 2025.
- What is the best way for Iranians to obtain Spanish residency now?
Work visas, digital nomad visas, and non-lucrative visas are the most viable legal options.
- Can I obtain Spanish citizenship with a digital nomad visa?
Yes, if you legally reside in Spain for 10 years and meet other citizenship criteria.
Conclusion: Is Spain Still a Good Option for Citizenship in 2025?
Spain remains a beautiful and developed country, but with the termination of the Golden Visa program, the pathway to citizenship has become more complicated, expensive, and time-consuming for Iranians. It is no longer possible to obtain residency or citizenship simply by investing in real estate.
A Faster and Easier Option: Dominica Passport
If you are looking for a second passport that is fast, straightforward, and allows you to retain your Iranian citizenship, Dominica is the best choice in 2025:
- Obtain your passport in less than 6 months
- No physical presence or travel required
- No language test or interview
- Visa-free travel to over 145 countries, including the Schengen Area, UK, and Singapore
- Keep your Iranian citizenship with no formal renunciation required
Ali Sharif has helped dozens of clients successfully acquire Dominica citizenship through investment.
Read more about Ali Sharif at https://sharifgroup.ae/ali-sharif/.
Contact us now for a free consultation and full details on Dominica’s citizenship program.
