Spain Non-Lucrative Visa (Residence Visa)

What is the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa?

The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa is a residence permit designed for non-European Union citizens who have sufficient and guaranteed financial resources to live in Spain without engaging in any work or professional activity. It is ideal for retirees, individuals with passive income, or anyone who can support themselves financially without needing to enter the Spanish labor market. This visa allows you to reside in Spain long-term, enjoy free movement within the Schengen Area, and access public services after obtaining your residence card.

Purpose of the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa

The primary purpose of the Non-Lucrative Visa is to attract individuals who can contribute to the Spanish economy through their consumption and residency, without competing for local jobs. It provides a legal framework for those who wish to spend extended periods in Spain, whether for retirement, a sabbatical, or simply to enjoy the Spanish way of life, without becoming a burden on the state’s social welfare system.

Eligibility Criteria for the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa

To qualify for the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa, applicants must meet several key requirements:

1. Financial Means

This is the most critical requirement. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves and any dependents.

• Main Applicant: You must prove funds equivalent to 400% of the IPREM annually. For 2025, this is approximately €28,800 per year (or €2,400 per month).
• Each Dependent: An additional 100% of the IPREM is required for each accompanying family member. For 2025, this is approximately €7,200 per year (or €600 per month) per dependent.

Accepted proof of financial means includes:

• Bank statements (often for the last 3-6 months, showing stable balance)
• Retirement benefits/pensions
• Investment accounts
• Rental income
• Dividends from businesses (must be passive income)
• An affidavit if self-employed, stating you will not work in Spain.

Important Note for Bank Statements (2025 Update): New regulations for 2025 specify that bank statements must include the bank’s name and address, complete identification of the accounts, the balance as of December 31st of the previous year, and the average balance of the previous year.

2. Health Insurance

Applicants must obtain private health insurance from an insurance company authorized to operate in Spain. The policy must:

• Offer full coverage in Spain, equivalent to the Spanish public healthcare system.
• Have no co-payments (sin copago) or deductibles.
• Be valid for at least one year and maintained for the entire duration of your stay.

3. Criminal Record Check

Applicants of legal age must provide an original and a copy of a criminal record check certificate(s) from their country (or countries) of residence for the past 5 years. This document must typically be issued no more than 90 days before the visa application.

4. Medical Certificate

A medical certificate, issued by a licensed healthcare provider, is required. It must state that the applicant does not suffer from any disease that could cause serious repercussions for public health, as per the 2005 International Health Regulations. This certificate should also be recently issued (e.g., within 3 months of application).

5. Other Requirements

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least one year from the date of application and have at least two blank pages.
• Proof of Accommodation: While not always a strict requirement for initial application at all consulates, it is highly recommended to show proof of accommodation in Spain (e.g., a lease agreement or property ownership).
• No Work Intention: You must genuinely intend not to engage in any work or professional activity in Spain.

Application Process for the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa

The application process generally involves these steps:

1. Gather Documents

Collect all necessary documents as per the requirements of the specific Spanish Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. All foreign-language documents must be officially translated into Spanish, and many require an Apostille of The Hague or legalization.

2. Complete Application Forms

Fill out the National Visa Application Form and the EX-01 Non-Working Residence Visa Application Form.

3. Schedule an Appointment

Book an in-person appointment at the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in your country of legal residence. Wait times can vary significantly.

4. Submit Your Application

Attend your appointment with all original documents, photocopies, completed forms, passport-sized photos, and visa fee payment. Be prepared for a brief interview.

5. Await Visa Processing

The processing time can vary, typically from 4 to 8 weeks, but can extend up to 90 days or more if additional information is requested.

6. Collect Your Visa

Once approved, you will receive a visa sticker in your passport.

7. Post-Arrival Steps in Spain

• Enter Spain: You have 365 days from the visa issuance date to enter Spain. It is highly recommended to enter as soon as possible after issuance, as your residency period for renewal purposes may start from the visa issue date, not your entry date.
• NIE (Foreigner Identification Number): This unique identification number is crucial for various administrative tasks in Spain.
• Empadronamiento: Register your address at your local town hall (ayuntamiento) within your first weeks in Spain to obtain a certificate of registration.
• TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero): Within one month of your entry into Spain, you must apply for your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) at the local Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería) or designated Police Station. This is your physical residence card.

Benefits of the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa

The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa offers numerous advantages:

• Permanent Residency: After residing in Spain for 5 years on the Non-Lucrative Visa (1 year initial + two 2-year renewals), you may be eligible to apply for long-term residency.
• Schengen Area Travel: Enjoy visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
• Family Inclusion: You can include your spouse or registered partner, dependent children, and even dependent parents in your application, allowing your whole family to reside in Spain. (Family regrouping is permitted after one year of residence).
• Access to Public Services: Once you have your TIE, you gain access to Spain’s public healthcare and education systems.
• Pathway to Citizenship: After 10 years of legal residency in Spain, you may be eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship.

Updates and Considerations for 2025

Spain’s immigration regulations are subject to changes, and 2025 brings some important updates to consider for the Non-Lucrative Visa:

• Renewal Period Clarification: While there was some confusion, it has been clarified that NLV renewals will continue to be granted for two-year periods, not four years. The path is 1 year (initial) -> 2 years (first renewal) -> 2 years (second renewal) -> long-term residency (5 years).
• 183-Day Rule and Tax Residency: NLV holders are considered tax residents in Spain if they reside for more than 183 days annually. This means you will be liable for Spanish income tax on your worldwide income. Furthermore, to qualify for renewal, you must prove you’ve spent more than 183 days physically in Spain during your residency period. An electronic entry and exit system will track movements.
• Financial Documentation Specifics: As mentioned earlier, new regulations for 2025 are more stringent on the details required for bank statements to prove financial means.
• Earlier Family Regrouping: The updated regulation permits family regrouping after just one year of residence, making it easier for families to move together.

Financial Requirements Overview (2025)

Here’s a table summarizing the approximate financial requirements for the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa in 2025, based on IPREM:

Note: These figures are based on the 2025 IPREM and are subject to change by the Spanish government.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Research Thoroughly: Each Spanish Consulate may have slight variations in document requirements. Always check the official website of the consulate serving your jurisdiction.
• Organize Documents Meticulously: Ensure all documents are translated by a sworn translator (Traductor Jurado) and apostilled/legalized where required. Missing or improperly prepared documents are a common cause of delays or rejections.
• Prove Passive Income: Clearly demonstrate that your income or savings are passive and sufficient to cover your expenses without working.
• Apply Early: Begin the process well in advance of your desired moving date, as consular appointments and processing times can be lengthy.
• Consult Experts: If your situation is complex or you prefer professional guidance, consider consulting with an immigration lawyer specializing in Spanish visas.

Final Thoughts

The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa offers a wonderful opportunity for individuals and families to immerse themselves in Spanish life. With careful preparation and attention to the specific requirements and recent updates, your journey to living in Spain can be a smooth and successful one. Embrace the planning process, and soon you could be enjoying the Spanish sun!