Spain's Non-Lucrative Residence Visa

This is the ideal path for those who want to enjoy their retirement or live in Spain without working, by demonstrating sufficient personal financial means.

What is the Non-Lucrative Visa?

The non-lucrative residence visa is an authorization that allows non-EU citizens to reside in Spain for more than 90 days without engaging in any work or professional activities. It is the perfect option for individuals with sufficient financial means to support themselves—and their families—without needing to generate income in the country.

It is the preferred route for retirees, people living off passive income or investments, and anyone wishing to enjoy a long-term stay in Spain without work commitments. Importantly, this visa does not permit any form of employment in Spain.

Key Requirements

The main requirements for obtaining this visa are:

Be a citizen of a non-EU, EEA, or Swiss country.
Not be in Spain irregularly or have an entry ban.
Have a clean criminal record in Spain and in previous countries of residence for the last 5 years.
Have private health insurance from an authorized insurer in Spain, with full coverage and no co-payments.
Prove sufficient financial means: This is the fundamental requirement. You must demonstrate possession of a monthly amount equivalent to 400% of Spain's Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator (IPREM) for the main applicant. For each additional family member, you must prove an additional 100% of the IPREM.
Not suffer from any diseases with serious public health repercussions as per the International Health Regulations.

The initial visa is valid for one year. Renewals are for two-year periods, and after five years, you can apply for long-term residency.

Advantages of the Non-Lucrative Visa

Reside in Spain

Allows you to live in Spain and enjoy its climate, culture, and quality of life without the obligation to work.

Family Reunification

You can include your spouse and dependent children in the application, provided you prove the additional financial means.

Path to Long-Term Residency

After five years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for long-term residency and, eventually, Spanish citizenship.

Schengen Area Freedom

Once you obtain your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE), you can travel freely throughout the 27 countries of the Schengen Area.

Application Process

The non-lucrative visa must always be applied for from your home country or country of legal residence, at the corresponding Spanish Diplomatic Mission or Consular Office.

Document Preparation: Gather all required documents, translated and apostilled as necessary. This is the most critical step.
Application Submission: Submit the complete application and documentation at the consulate.
Resolution: The maximum processing time for a decision is three months.
Visa Collection: If approved, you must collect the visa in person within one month.
Entry to Spain & TIE Application: Once in Spain, you must apply for your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within one month of arrival.

Planning Your Non-Lucrative Residency in Spain?

We help you prepare your application, ensuring you meet all requirements and submit the documentation correctly to increase your chances of success.

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