Discover how to move to Spain and enjoy its culture, climate, and lifestyle with the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa. Perfect for retirees, remote investors, and those seeking a relaxed life without employment obligations.
1) Introduction: Why Choose the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa?
Spain has long been a top destination for expats thanks to its warm weather, affordable cost of living, and rich cultural heritage. The Non-Lucrative Visa allows you to settle in Spain without working, giving you the freedom to explore its landscapes, history, and world-renowned gastronomy.
2) What is the Non-Lucrative Residence Permit in Spain?
This residence permit allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain without engaging in work activities. It’s designed for individuals with sufficient passive income or savings, offering benefits like family inclusion from day one, investment opportunities, and free movement within the Schengen Zone.
3) Key Features and Benefits of the Non-Lucrative Visa
- Governed by Organic Law 4/2000 and Royal Decree 557/2011.
- Initial duration: 1 year, renewable for 2-year periods.
- Permanent residency eligibility after 5 years.
- No work allowed (including remote work for foreign companies).
- Bring your spouse and dependent children from the start.
- Permits investments and enrollment in studies.
- No property purchase or business investment required.
- Visa holders can travel freely within the Schengen Area.
4) Eligibility Requirements for the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa
- Non-EU citizen: You must not be a citizen or family member of an EU/EEA/Swiss national.
- Legal status: Cannot be in Spain illegally at the time of application.
- Clean criminal record: No convictions in the last 5 years.
- Financial means: 400% of IPREM for the applicant and 100% per dependent.
- Private health insurance: Full coverage from a Spanish insurer.
- Medical certificate: No serious illnesses as per WHO guidelines.
- Payment of fees and submission of required documentation.
5) Step-by-Step Application Process for the Non-Lucrative Visa
- Visa application: Submit documents to the Spanish consulate in your home country.
- Approval: Receive the visa stamp in your passport.
- Entry into Spain: Must arrive within 3 months.
- Register residency: Enroll at your local municipality.
- Obtain TIE card: Fingerprints and card collection at the police station.
6) Advantages of Living in Spain with the Non-Lucrative Visa
- Perfect for retirees or passive income earners.
- Enjoy a slower, more relaxed pace of life.
- Access to Spanish healthcare and public services.
- Educational and training opportunities.
- Renewable and convertible to permanent residency.
- Travel freely within the Schengen Zone.
- Bring your family with you from the start.
7) Renewing Your Non-Lucrative Visa and Long-Term Options
After the first year, you can renew for 2 years if you still meet the financial and insurance requirements. At 5 years, you can apply for long-term residence.
- Renewal requires 800% of IPREM for two years.
- Option to switch to a work permit (employed or self-employed).
Time spent under this permit counts towards Spanish citizenship. Latin American citizens may apply after only 2 years of residence.
8) Important Considerations Before Applying
The visa does not allow any form of work, including remote work. If you wish to work while living in Spain, consider the Digital Nomad Visa instead.
- Investments are permitted.
- No requirement to purchase property in Spain.
11) Need Expert Help with Your Non-Lucrative Visa Application?
Our Services
- Immigration law consultation.
- Document preparation and submission assistance.
Why Work With Us?
We guide you through the entire process, reduce the risk of mistakes, and improve your chances of approval. Our experience allows us to solve complex cases and speed up processing times.
