Spain Non-Lucrative Visa is an ideal residence permit for non-EU nationals who want to live in Spain long-term without engaging in any local employment or professional activity. Popular among retirees, digital nomads working remotely for clients outside Spain, and individuals seeking a high quality of life in Europe, this visa offers a straightforward path to Spanish residency with attractive benefits.
What Is the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa?
The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa allows third-country nationals to reside in Spain for up to one year initially, renewable thereafter, without the need to work or conduct business locally. It is sometimes called a “retirement visa” because it suits those with stable passive income who want to enjoy Spain’s climate, culture, and lifestyle.
Key Requirements for 2025
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves and any dependents without working in Spain. The income threshold is based on Spain’s Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator (IPREM), which for 2025 is euro 600 per month.
- Main applicant: Minimum income of 400 percent of the IPREM, i.e., euro 2,400 per month or euro 28,800 per year.
- Dependents: Additional 100 percent of the IPREM per dependent, approximately euro 600 per month or euro 7,200 per year.
Proof of income can come from pensions, savings, rental income, dividends, or other stable sources. Bank statements from the last 3 to 6 months, investment certificates, or pension statements are accepted.
Other Essential Criteria
- No work or economic activity: Applicants must confirm they will not engage in any work or business activity in Spain.
- Health assurance: Private medical assurancevalid in Spain with no copayments or deductibles and coverage of at least euro 30,000 per person annually.
- Clean criminal record: Criminal background checks from all countries of residence in the past five years.
- Medical certificate: Confirming no diseases that pose a public health risk.
- Valid passport: With at least one year of validity beyond the visa duration.
Application Process
Applicants must apply from their country of legal residence through the nearest Spanish consulate. The process typically takes 1 to 3 months depending on the consulate.
Steps include:
- Prepare documents: Passport, proof of financial means, health assurance, criminal record, medical certificate, and visa application forms.
- Submit application: At the consulate with all required documents.
- Wait for approval: Background checks and document verification are conducted.
- Travel to Spain: Upon visa approval, enter Spain within the validity period.
- Register with local authorities: Within 30 days of arrival, register at the local town hall and apply for a residence card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero).
Benefits of the Non-Lucrative Visa
- Freedom to live in Spain: Enjoy Spain’s culture, climate, and lifestyle.
- Schengen travel: Visa holders can travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
- Family inclusion: Spouses, dependent children, and dependent relatives can be included if additional income requirements are met.
- No minimum stay: While renewal requires some presence in Spain, there is no strict minimum stay requirement.
- Path to permanent residency and citizenship: After five years of continuous residence, holders may apply for permanent residency and eventually citizenship.
Who Should Apply?
- Retirees with stable pensions.
- Remote workers employed outside Spain.
- Individuals with passive income or investments.
- Families seeking a safe, high-quality lifestyle in Europe.
Final Tips
The income requirements are updated yearly with the IPREM, so applicants should verify the latest figures before applying. Also, ensure health assurance meets Spanish standards, and all documents are translated into Spanish by certified translators if required.
