Authorised and regulated by the Insurance and Pension Funds Supervisory Authority in Portugal (ASF) with registration number 607124296 and subject to limited regulation by the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) number 825539 under the TPR rules
Your Gateway to Residency and Wealth Planning By Callaghan Financial Services
For high-net-worth individuals, digital nomads, retirees, and global professionals, Spain and Monaco stand out as two of the most attractive European destinations for lifestyle, tax planning, and long-term security.
Whether you’re seeking the sun-drenched beaches of Marbella or the glamour and tax efficiency of Monte Carlo, choosing the right visa is a vital step in securing your future.
At Callaghan Financial Services, we specialize in helping you find the most strategic path to residency and investment opportunities in both Spain and Monaco, with tailored financial advice, cross-border tax planning, and ongoing support.
Why Spain? Spain offers a warm climate, excellent healthcare, a relatively low cost of living compared to other Western European nations, and a growing portfolio of visa options that cater to various needs. Whether you’re moving for lifestyle, remote work, or retirement, there’s likely a visa that suits you.
1. Non-Lucrative Visa (Residencia No Lucrativa) Ideal for retirees and passive income earners, this visa is perfect for those who don’t intend to work in Spain but can show sufficient financial means to support themselves.
Requirements:
No employment in Spain
Proof of funds (€30,000+ per applicant annually)
Private health insurance
Clean criminal record
Benefits:
One-year residency, renewable every two years
Pathway to permanent residency after five years
Access to Spain’s public services
2. Golden Visa (Investor Visa) Designed for non - EU nationals investing significantly in Spain. The most popular route is purchasing real estate valued at €500,000 or more.
Other investment options include:
€ 2 million in Spanish government bonds
€ 1 million in shares of Spanish companies or funds
Advantages:
No minimum stay requirement
Fast-track residency (issued in around 20 days)
Family reunification
Work and live rights in Spain
3. Digital Nomad Visa Launched in 2023, this visa allows remote workers and freelancers to live and work in Spain while employed by companies outside the country.
Eligibility:
€ 2,200+ monthly income
Proof of contract or business relationship with a foreign company
Valid private medical insurance
It’s ideal for tech workers, consultants, and creatives looking to base themselves in Europe with flexibility.
Why Monaco? Monaco is a sovereign city - state famous for its political stability, zero personal income tax, world class infrastructure, and elegant lifestyle. It’s long been a magnet for the ultra-wealthy seeking security and discretion.
Residency Requirements: There’s no formal visa program. Instead, individuals apply for residency status through Monaco’s government.
To qualify:
Rent or purchase property in Monaco
Open a Monaco bank account with a deposit of €500,000 - €1,000,000
Provide financial proof of independent means
Pass a residency interview and background check
Hold private health insurance
Once approved, you’ll receive a Monaco residency card, initially valid for one year, then renewed to longer terms.
Monaco vs. Spain: Which is Right for You? If you’re undecided between Spain and Monaco, here’s a direct comparison of key features:
1. Taxation
Spain: Higher taxation on income, capital gains, and worldwide assets for tax residents. Tax residency applies if you spend more than 183 days per year in the country.
Monaco: No personal income tax for residents (except French nationals). One of the most favourable tax regimes globally.
2. Cost of Residency
Spain: Lower entry point. Non-lucrative visa requires around €30,000 per year in personal funds. Golden Visa begins at €500,000 real estate investment.
Monaco: High threshold. Expect property rental costs from €3,500/month or purchase costs starting at € 1.5 million. Bank deposit of at least €500,000 is also required.
3. Visa/Residency Pathways
Spain: Offers multiple visas (non-lucrative, golden visa, digital nomad). Easier access for families and remote workers.
Monaco: No traditional visa. Residency granted through wealth, accommodation, and good character. Involves a government interview.
4. Lifestyle
Spain: Diverse regions, family-friendly, affordable, and culturally rich. Offers beaches, cities, mountains, and strong expat support.
Monaco: Luxurious, ultra - secure, high - profile. Best suited for those desiring privacy, elite social circles, and top-tier living.
5. Healthcare
Spain: Affordable and excellent public and private healthcare systems.
Monaco: Top-quality private healthcare facilities with rapid access and personalized care.
6. Family and Education
Spain: Excellent value for international schooling. Affordable family life with strong infrastructure.
Monaco: Elite international schools and exceptional child safety. High standard of family living, but at a premium.
7. Flexibility of Stay
Spain: Residency renewal usually requires presence in the country. Golden Visa is more flexible in this regard.
Monaco: No fixed stay requirements to retain residency, but genuine ties must be established.
8. Banking and Investment
Spain: Well-regulated with EU-wide banking access.
Monaco: A global hub for private banking and discreet wealth management. Excellent for preserving assets.
How Callaghan Financial Services Can Help At Callaghan Financial Services, we go far beyond visa applications. Our expertise spans international pensions (QROPS & SIPP), wealth preservation, estate planning, tax structuring, and ongoing financial advisory.
We assist with:
Selecting the most suitable visa or residency route
Liaising with legal professionals and notaries
Opening international and Monaco bank accounts
Property investment sourcing in Spain or Monaco
International pension transfers
Pre- and post-residency tax optimization
Full relocation support
Whether you’re planning a peaceful retirement in Spain or a luxury lifestyle in Monaco, we are here to guide your journey every step of the way.
Tax and Wealth Planning Before relocating, it is essential to review your tax exposure, asset structure, and pension planning. We help you legally minimize taxes through:
Restructuring your residency before triggering tax obligations
Utilizing international pension vehicles such as QROPS and SIPPs
Reviewing trusts, inheritance planning, and income strategy
Advising on dual-residency risks and treaty benefits
Conclusion Spain and Monaco offer two distinct lifestyle and financial profiles each with compelling benefits. Spain is affordable, flexible, and full of cultural charm. Monaco is secure, exclusive, and tax efficient.
No matter your goals, Callaghan Financial Services ensures your move is smooth, legal, and financially sound. From choosing the right visa to securing residency and managing your cross-border wealth, we provide expert support you can trust.
Let us help you unlock the doors to Europe’s most desirable destinations.