There are a few main criteria that need to be checked before for applying for a Spanish Golden Visa:

1. Investment: The applicant must make one of the following investments:
   • Invest a minimum of €500k in a property based in Spain.
   • Invest a minimum of €2 million in Spanish government bonds
   • Invest a minimum of €1 million in a Spanish company (stocks and shares)
   • Create at least 10 jobs in Spain through business investment
   • Make a deposit of at least €1 million in a Spanish bank
2. Criminal record: The applicant must have no criminal record.
3. Health insurance: The applicant must have sufficient health insurance coverage for themselves and any dependents.
4. Spanish language: The applicant must demonstrate a basic knowledge of the Spanish language.
5. Tax compliance: The applicant must prove to be tax compliant in their country of origin and in Spain.

Once the investment is made and the requirements are met, the applicant can apply for the Golden Visa. The application process typically takes around two to three months. Once the visa is granted, it is valid for two years and must be renewed every two years. After five years of holding the visa, the holder may be eligible for permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship.

The permit also includes family members such as partners and children.

The Spanish Golden Visa program has been successful in attracting foreign investment to the country. According to the Spanish government, as of 2020, over 12,000 Golden Visas have been issued, with Chinese citizens making up the majority of applicants. The program has also been a major contributor to the Spanish property market, with many foreign investors purchasing property in popular tourist destinations such as Madrid and Barcelona.

The Spanish Golden Visa is a government-approved program that will fast track a way to gain access to the EU and Spain. It’s an attractive program for those who are interested in living in Spain and want to invest their money in the country.