Spain’s Golden Visa is Gone: Here are Your 2026 Alternatives
January 12, 2026
Following the 2024–2025 phase-out of the €500,000 Real Estate Golden Visa, Spain has shifted its focus from passive investment to active residency. For Americans and non-EU citizens, two primary routes now dominate the landscape.
1. The Digital Nomad Visa (DNV)
The DNV is now the most efficient route into Spain for remote workers and freelancers.
- The "Beckham Law" Benefit: Successful DNV applicants can opt for a flat 24% tax rate on income up to €600,000 for their first six years, rather than the progressive local rates which can hit 50%.
- Income Threshold: In 2026, the main applicant must show roughly €2,760/month (200% of the SMI).
2. The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
If you are retired or taking a sabbatical, the NLV remains the standard option.
- The Requirement: You must show passive income (pensions, dividends, or rental income) or a significant bank balance. You are not allowed to work for any company, including remote employers.
- The Catch: You will be a full tax resident on your worldwide income from Day 1.
2026 Strategy
If you are self-employed, the DNV is almost always the superior financial choice due to the tax regime. However, if your income is purely passive, the NLV is your only legal path.
Compare Spanish Visa Costs. See which route saves you the most in taxes over 5 years. [Bring Me Abroad]
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About Aaron
Aaron is a seasoned designer and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience building digital products for the SaaS and hospitality industries. In 2023, he navigated the complex journey of relocating from the U.S. to the Netherlands—a process that revealed a fragmented landscape of outdated visa blogs and "browser tab overload."
After successfully launching a design studio in the Netherlands, Aaron co-founded Bring Me Abroad to solve the "Day 1" information gap. His mission is to democratize relocation by replacing expensive consultants with high-utility, data-driven reports that help early-stage explorers get situated quickly.
When he isn't decoding immigration logistics, Aaron can be found cycling through the Dutch rain in search of the perfect apple pie or navigating the nuances of the Dutch language.
