Spain Non Lucrative Visa: Live in Spain Without Working

Spain is known for its rich culture, Mediterranean climate, and high quality of life, making it a dream destination for many. If you’ve ever imagined living in Spain without the need to work, the Spain Non Lucrative Visa could be the ideal solution. This visa allows non-EU citizens to reside in Spain for an extended period without engaging in any professional or business activities in the country.

At Lexidy, we help individuals and families successfully navigate the legal processes required to relocate to Spain. Whether you’re retiring, taking a sabbatical, or working remotely for a foreign employer, understanding how the Spain Non Lucrative Visa works is the first step in making your dream a reality.

What is the Spain Non Lucrative Visa?

The Spain Non Lucrative Visa is a long-term residency permit available to non-EU nationals who wish to live in Spain but do not intend to work or carry out any commercial activity in the country. It’s particularly popular among retirees, digital nomads with foreign clients, and individuals with passive income streams.

Although this visa does not permit local employment, it allows you to live in Spain year-round and travel freely within the Schengen Area. With its simple requirements and pathway to permanent residency and even Spanish citizenship, it’s a practical choice for those seeking a new lifestyle abroad.

Who Can Apply for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa?

This visa is open to all non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals who can demonstrate financial self-sufficiency. You must show that you have enough funds to support yourself (and any dependents) without needing to work while residing in Spain.

Applicants must also:

• Be over 18 years old

• Have no criminal record in Spain or in the countries where they’ve lived in the past five years

• Have private health insurance with full coverage in Spain

• Provide proof of accommodation in Spain

At Lexidy, we guide clients through the documentation process, ensuring they meet all legal and financial requirements before submitting their application.

Financial Requirements

One of the key components of the Spain Non Lucrative Visa is proving financial independence. As of 2025, the main applicant must show a monthly income of at least €2,400 or the equivalent in annual savings. For each dependent family member, an additional €600 per month is required.

These funds can come from:

• Pension payments

• Investment income

• Rental income from property

• Dividends or savings

If you’re unsure how to prove your financial stability, Lexidy can assess your documents and provide advice tailored to your circumstances.

Application Process and Timeline

The process for obtaining the Spain Non Lucrative Visa typically begins in your country of residence. Applications must be submitted at the Spanish consulate or embassy with jurisdiction over your location. Here’s what the process generally involves:

1. Gather all required documentation (translated and legalized)

2. Schedule an appointment at the Spanish consulate

3. Submit the visa application along with proof of funds, insurance, and accommodation

4. Wait for the decision—usually within 1 to 3 months

5. Once approved, enter Spain and apply for your residency card (TIE) within 30 days

Lexidy can handle the entire process on your behalf, from document preparation to residence card acquisition, saving you time and reducing stress.

Duration and Renewals

The initial Spain Non Lucrative Visa is valid for one year. After that, you can renew it for two additional years, and then again for another two years. Once you’ve lived in Spain for five years continuously, you become eligible for permanent residency.

After ten years of legal residence, you may also apply for Spanish citizenship, provided you meet other legal requirements like language proficiency and cultural integration.

Many of our clients at Lexidy successfully use this visa as a stepping stone toward permanent settlement in Spain, often transitioning into more flexible visa options or integrating as long-term residents.

Living in Spain on a Non Lucrative Visa

Life in Spain under the Spain Non Lucrative Visa is fulfilling and relaxed. Whether you choose to settle in vibrant cities like Madrid or Barcelona, or prefer the quieter coastal regions of Andalusia or Valencia, the visa provides access to Spain’s healthcare system, education for children, and world-class infrastructure.

While you cannot legally work in Spain under this visa, you can still manage investments, work remotely for companies based outside of Spain, or volunteer. Many expats also use this time to learn Spanish, explore the culture, and build strong community ties.

How Lexidy Helps You Get Started

As an international law firm with local expertise, Lexidy specializes in immigration law and has helped countless clients relocate to Spain smoothly. Our dedicated legal team offers:

• Personalized legal consultations

• Full visa application support

• Document review and translations

• Assistance with appointments and Spanish authorities

• Post-arrival services including residency card processing

We stay up to date with every change in immigration law so you don’t have to. If you’re considering applying for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa, our team is ready to assist you every step of the way.

Conclusion

The Spain Non Lucrative Visa offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the Spanish lifestyle without the pressures of local employment. With the right guidance, the application process is clear and manageable, and the benefits are long-lasting. From warm weather and cultural festivals to delicious cuisine and stunning landscapes, Spain has something for everyone.

At Lexidy, we make relocating to Spain not just a possibility, but a reality. Contact us today to find out if the Spain Non Lucrative Visa is right for you, and let our expert team handle the process with care and efficiency.