Best Residence by Investment Lawyers in Maspalomas

1. About Residence by Investment Law in Maspalomas, Spain

In Maspalomas, Spain, Residence by Investment is commonly known as the Golden Visa program. It offers a path to legal residence for non-EU investors who meet specific investment thresholds in Spain. The most common route is real estate investment of at least €500,000 in Spain, though other investment options exist, such as substantial bank deposits or business investments.

The Maspalomas area can be attractive due to its tourism appeal and property market dynamics, but due diligence is essential. A local solicitor can help with title checks, property due diligence, and ensuring the investment aligns with residency requirements. The program typically provides a residence permit that is initially granted for two years and then renewals every five years, provided the investment is maintained.

Family members may be added to the residency application, subject to meeting criteria and documentation. After maintaining legal residence for certain periods, investors can pursue permanent residence and, later, potential path to citizenship under Spain's general naturalization rules. Always verify current requirements with an authorised legal professional because immigration rules can change.

Source: Exteriores.gov.es - official information on Spain's residency by investment programs, including the Golden Visa framework.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

• You plan to buy property in Maspalomas at or above the €500,000 threshold to qualify for residency by investment, and you need due diligence on the title, encumbrances, and property taxes.
• You have a complex ownership structure or a corporate vehicle for your investment and require structuring advice to meet immigration and tax rules.
• Your family members will join you, and you need to prepare and file ancillary visa applications, including dependent documentation and residence rights for spouses and children.
• You want to compare investment routes (real estate vs other investments) to see which best fits your long-term residency, tax, and estate planning goals.
• You must navigate Spanish, Canary Islands, and EU immigration procedures, including document translation, apostilles, and timeline planning.
• You need representation in negotiations with sellers, banks, notaries, and the Extranjería office to avoid delays and ensure compliance with evolving rules.

3. Local Laws Overview

The Golden Visa program in Spain is governed by core national laws and regulations that apply across all regions, including the Canary Islands and Maspalomas. Two primary legal references set the framework for residency by investment:

• Ley 14/2013, de apoyo a los emprendedores y su internacionalización. This law establishes the general basis for certain residency by investment programs and investor pathways in Spain. It has been amended over time to reflect updated immigration procedures and investment criteria.
• Real Decreto 557/2011, por el que se aprueba el Reglamento de la Ley de Extranjería. This regulation details the procedural rules for entry, residence, and permits for foreign nationals, including investors seeking a Golden Visa.

Recent administrative adjustments to the Extranjeria regime have focused on simplifying checklists, clarifying document requirements, and improving processing times for Golden Visa applicants. To ensure accuracy for your specific case, consult an authorised solicitor in Maspalomas who can provide the latest, locally applicable guidance.

Source: BOE.es and Exteriores.gob.es provide official texts and current guidance on the Ley 14/2013 and the Real Decreto 557/2011 related to investment-based residence.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Golden Visa and what does it allow?

The Golden Visa is a Spanish residence by investment program. It allows non-EU nationals to live in Spain and travel within Schengen while maintaining the investment. It also enables family members to join, subject to requirements.

How do I start the residence by investment process in Maspalomas?

Begin with a consultation with a Maspalomas-based solicitor who specialises in immigration and real estate. They will assess your options, gather documents, and prepare the investment structure for submission to the authorities.

Do I need to invest 500,000 euros in real estate to qualify?

Real estate is the most common qualifying route, with a minimum investment of €500,000. Other eligible investments include certain eligible bank deposits and business investments, though real estate is the typical route for individuals purchasing property in Maspalomas.

How long does the initial visa process take?

Processing times vary, but many applications are assessed within 1 to 3 months after submission, depending on document clarity and the Ej Corona office handling the case. Delays may occur if documentation is incomplete.

Do I need to be physically present in Spain during processing?

No, you can apply from outside Spain at a Spanish consulate or through the Extranjería process. You will need to provide certified documents, translations, and apostilles as required.

Can I include my family in the application?

Yes. Spouses, dependent children, and sometimes dependent relatives can be included, subject to meeting criteria and providing required documentation.

Is there a guaranteed path to permanent residency or citizenship?

Permanent residency may be available after five years of legal residence, and citizenship is generally possible after ten years of residence, subject to language, integration, and other requirements.

What documents are typically required for the real estate route?

Common documents include a valid passport, birth certificates, proof of health insurance, property purchase contract, proof of funds, and a certificate of occupancy or title deed. Translations and apostilles are usually required.

What are the main costs beyond the investment?

Expect notary fees, land registry fees, property transfer tax, and legal fees. There are also ongoing costs such as annual property taxes and municipal fees that accompany ownership in Maspalomas.

Do I need a local lawyer in Gran Canaria?

Engaging a Maspalomas-based solicitor is highly recommended to navigate property due diligence, local permitting, and immigration submission requirements. Local familiarity reduces risk of delays.

What happens if I sell the investment later?

Sale can affect your residency status. You must maintain the required level of investment for the permit term and follow renewal rules. Consult your solicitor to understand the implications for your visa.

Are there tax implications I should plan for?

Yes. Real estate ownership in Spain triggers property taxes and potentially wealth taxes or income taxes on rental income. A local tax advisor or solicitor can tailor a plan based on your situation.

5. Additional Resources

• Exteriores - Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, Unión Europea y Cooperación - Official information on Spanish visas and residency for investors. exteriores.gob.es
• Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE) - Official texts for Ley 14/2013 and related extranjeria regulations. boe.es
• Gobierno de Canarias - Regional guidance for residents and immigration matters affecting the Canary Islands and Maspalomas. gobiernodecanarias.org

6. Next Steps

1. Clarify your investment goals with a Maspalomas solicitor to determine if real estate is the best route for you and your family. This initial assessment typically takes 1 week.
2. Gather core documents for you and your family, including passports, birth certificates, and proof of funds. Plan for translations and apostilles; expect a 2-4 week preparation window.
3. Engage a local Maspalomas lawyer who specialises in Golden Visa cases to structure the investment, perform due diligence, and prepare the application package.
4. Choose your qualifying investment strategy (real estate or alternative investment) and secure the title or agreement, ensuring the minimum requirements are met.
5. Submit the residency by investment application through the appropriate consulate or Extranjería office in Spain with your legal counsel. Allow 1-3 months for initial processing, barring delays.
6. Attend any required appointments and finalise documentation for the residence permit. Maintain compliance by keeping the investment active and meeting renewal criteria.
7. Plan for ongoing compliance, including local taxes, property maintenance, and renewal reminders, with your lawyer to avoid gaps in residency permissions.