One Way Ticket Team
Spain is one of the most sought-after destinations among Russian-speaking emigrants. A sunny climate, rich culture, European-grade healthcare and education — and, at the same time, relatively accessible residency programs. In 2025 there are more of them than ever.
1. Spain's Golden Visa — abolished
Update: the Spanish Golden Visa has been abolished. Since 3 April 2025 (Organic Law 1/2025) no new investor residence applications are accepted — whether for real estate, shares, deposits or bonds. For business, the entrepreneur visa and the highly qualified professional permit under Law 14/2013 remain.
- •❌ Real estate from €500K — route closed since 3 April 2025
- •❌ Shares, deposits and government bonds — routes closed
- •✅ Entrepreneur visa: an innovative business plan approved by ENISA
- •✅ Highly qualified professional permit (Law 14/2013)
- •Permits already issued and applications filed before the abolition follow transitional rules
- •Path to citizenship: after 10 years of residence (2 years for Latin Americans)
2. Digital Nomad Visa (Visado para Nómadas Digitales)
A new program launched in 2023, designed specifically for remote workers and freelancers. Its terms are among the best in Europe:
- •Income from foreign sources: from 200% of the minimum wage (≈€2,762/month in 2025)
- •No requirement to work for a Spanish company
- •You can work for multiple foreign clients
- •The Beckham Law tax regime: a flat 24% instead of progressive rates of up to 47%
- •A 1-year residence permit, renewable for up to 5 years
- •Family included in the application
💡 The Beckham Law regime (Ley Montoro) is a huge bonus for digital nomads: a flat 24% tax on the first €600K of income. That's several times more favorable than Spain's standard tax scale.
3. The Non-Lucrative Visa
The most accessible route to Spanish residency is the Non-Lucrative Visa — a permit without the right to work. It suits retirees, rentiers and anyone living on passive income.
- •Requirements: income of €2,400+/month for the applicant, plus €600 per family member
- •No investment required
- •You cannot work in Spain
- •Possible conversion to a work permit after 1 year
- •A popular strategy: get the Non-Lucrative visa, live for a year, then switch to Autónomo or a work permit
“Spain is not just a relocation. It's a different pace of life, Mediterranean culture, and a genuine shot at long-term integration into the EU.”