Golden Visa Alternatives in 2026: A Checklist for Non-EU Buyers in Spain

With the real estate route for the Golden Visa under scrutiny or eliminated, non-EU buyers in 2026 need to look at alternatives if residency is the goal.

The Checklist

1. Digital Nomad Visa: Can you prove remote income? This is the most popular new route.
2. Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): Do you have sufficient passive savings? Note: You cannot work in Spain with this.
3. Self-Employed Visa: For those setting up a business in Spain.

Buying property is still a great investment, but it may no longer be your automatic ticket to residency.

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