Your Complete Guide to the Spain Non Lucrative Visa

Relocating to Spain is a dream for many. Whether it’s the warm Mediterranean climate, rich cultural heritage, or relaxed lifestyle that draws people in, the country offers a welcoming environment for foreigners. One popular option for non-EU nationals who want to live in Spain without working is the Spain Non Lucrative Visa. This type of residency permit allows individuals and their families to reside in Spain, provided they can financially support themselves.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Spain Non Lucrative Visa—from eligibility requirements and the application process to lifestyle tips once you’ve settled in.

What is the Spain Non Lucrative Visa?

The Spain Non Lucrative Visa is a long-term residence visa designed for non-EU citizens who want to live in Spain without engaging in any professional or economic activities. Essentially, it’s ideal for retirees, remote workers with passive income, or anyone who wants to enjoy an extended stay in Spain without seeking employment there.

This visa allows individuals to reside in Spain for a year, with the option to renew it for two additional two-year periods. After five years, applicants may qualify for permanent residency.

Who Can Apply for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa?

The Spain Non Lucrative Visa is open to third-country nationals—citizens of countries that are not members of the European Union, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland. Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves (and any dependents) during their stay in Spain.

This visa is particularly popular with retirees, digital nomads, and people who want to spend extended time in Spain without joining the local workforce. If you're already earning from investments, rental properties, or a pension, you might be an ideal candidate.

Financial Requirements

One of the key aspects of qualifying for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa is showing financial independence. Spain wants to ensure that visa holders will not become a burden on the country's welfare system.

As of 2025, the financial requirement is based on the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples). Applicants must show they earn at least 400% of the IPREM annually. This means:

• Main applicant: Approx. €30,000 annually

• Each additional family member: Approx. €7,500 annually

Acceptable forms of financial proof include bank statements, pension distributions, rental income, or investment account statements. Make sure your documents are recent and clearly show consistent income or sufficient savings.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa involves several steps. It’s essential to prepare thoroughly and ensure all documentation is correct and complete to avoid delays or rejection.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Applicants need to provide several important documents, including:

• A valid passport (minimum one year before expiration)

• Completed visa application forms

• Recent passport-sized photographs

• Proof of sufficient financial means

• Private health insurance with coverage in Spain

• Medical certificate stating you are free of contagious diseases

• Background check from your home country

All documents must be translated into Spanish and, in many cases, must be legalized with an apostille.

Step 2: Submit the Application at a Spanish Consulate

Applications must be submitted in person at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country of residence. Each consulate may have slightly different procedures, so it’s advisable to check specific requirements on their website.

Step 3: Wait for Approval

Processing time for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa can vary but typically takes between 30 to 60 days. If approved, you will receive a visa valid for 90 days to enter Spain.

Step 4: Finalize Residency in Spain

Once in Spain, applicants must register at their local city hall and apply for a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE), which is the official residency card. This must be done within 30 days of arrival.

Renewing the Spain Non Lucrative Visa

The initial Spain Non Lucrative Visa is valid for one year. You can renew it for two additional periods of two years each. To renew, you must:

• Prove continued financial stability

• Show proof of having lived in Spain for at least 183 days per year

• Provide an updated health insurance policy

• Confirm you’ve paid Spanish taxes if applicable

After five years of legal residence, you may become eligible for long-term residency, and after ten years, for Spanish citizenship (under certain conditions).

Can You Work on a Spain Non Lucrative Visa?

By definition, the Spain Non Lucrative Visa does not allow you to engage in work or professional activities in Spain. However, remote workers who earn income from outside Spain—such as freelancers, online business owners, or investors—often apply successfully.

Still, it's crucial to clarify this with the consulate, as some interpretations vary. A growing number of applicants who wish to work remotely from Spain are now considering Spain's newer Digital Nomad Visa, which explicitly allows remote work.

Living in Spain on a Non Lucrative Visa

Once you have the Spain Non Lucrative Visa, you can enjoy most of the rights and privileges of Spanish residents. Spain offers excellent healthcare, a high quality of life, and a relatively low cost of living compared to many Western countries.

Here are a few tips for adjusting to your new life in Spain:

• Language: While many Spaniards speak English in big cities, learning Spanish will enrich your experience and help with integration.

• Cost of Living: Cities like Madrid and Barcelona are more expensive, but many charming towns and rural areas offer affordable housing and lower daily expenses.

• Healthcare: Private health insurance is required for the visa, but once you gain permanent residency, you may access the public healthcare system.

• Community: Spain has vibrant expat communities, making it easier to settle and build a social life.

Spain Non Lucrative Visa vs. Other Visa Types

While the Spain Non Lucrative Visa is a great choice for those who can support themselves financially, it’s not the only option. Here’s how it compares:

• Golden Visa: For those who invest €500,000+ in Spanish property, allowing work and residency.

• Digital Nomad Visa: Specifically for remote workers with foreign employers or clients.

• Student Visa: For those enrolled in educational institutions.

• Entrepreneur Visa: For those wanting to launch a business in Spain.

Choosing the right visa depends on your personal circumstances and long-term goals in Spain.

Conclusion

The Spain Non Lucrative Visa offers an excellent pathway for non-EU citizens to enjoy the Spanish lifestyle without the need for employment. Whether you're retiring, taking a sabbatical, or working remotely for an international employer, this visa provides the flexibility to live in one of Europe's most desirable destinations.

By meeting the financial requirements and navigating the application process carefully, you can begin your journey toward living in Spain legally and comfortably. The Spain Non Lucrative Visa not only allows you to reside in a beautiful country but also opens doors to long-term residency and, potentially, citizenship.

Before starting your application, consult with immigration professionals or legal advisors to ensure all documents meet the specific criteria required by your local Spanish consulate. With the right preparation, the dream of living in Spain can soon become your reality.