The Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain

The Non-Lucrative Visa is a residence permit that allows non-EU nationals to live in Spain without engaging in any work or business activity. Commonly referred to as the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa for retirees for this prohibition, this visa is ideal for anyone with stable passive income who wishes to reside in the country without working for a local Spanish employer.

In contrast to Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, which is specifically designed for remote workers, there is no explicit prohibition against working remotely for a company based outside of Spain for Non-Lucrative Visa. Therefore, technically, remote work for a foreign company is possible as long as it does not involve local economic activity. 

In other words, the Spain Non-Lucrative residence permit offers legal residency with visa-free travel across the Schengen Area and a pathway to long-term residency and citizenship. As TEKCE VISA professionals, we assist you in applying for the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain throughout the entire process with a professional and experienced team.

Key Benefits of the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa

Living in Spain with a Non-Lucrative Visa offers many advantages without the need to work or invest heavily. The warm climate, rich culture, and high quality of life in the best cities in Spain are just a few reasons to choose this residency option.

Below, you can find the key benefits of the visa offer for you:

Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area
Legal residency without employment requirements
Family reunification with spouse and dependents
Access to private healthcare and education
Eligibility for permanent residency after several years
Citizenship application possible after a longer period
No large investment or property purchase required

Non-Lucrative Visa Requirements in Spain

If you are wondering “how to apply for a Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain?” you should note that the applicants must demonstrate their ability to support themselves financially without working in the country. 

So, financial proof is a critical part of the application process. You must demonstrate that you have a reliable source of passive income or sufficient savings to support their cost of living in Spain throughout their stay as well as their family members. 

The required amount may vary over time based on official standards. However, the minimum annual income currently required is 400% of Spain’s Public Multiple Effect Income Indicator (IPREM), along with an additional 100% of the IPREM for each dependent.

Also, while mostly income sources such as pensions, dividends, rental income, investments, savings interest are accepted, active employment income is not accepted.

Additionally, it should be noted that your adult children or those of your spouse are only eligible if they have a disability that requires support. They may also qualify if they are unable to support themselves due to their health condition.

Here, you can find the legal requirements for Spain Non-Lucrative Visa:

Required Documents for Spain Long-Term Residence Visa

A complete and properly prepared document package is essential for a successful application. You must submit identity documents, financial documentation, health insurance, and certificates verifying their legal and health status. Also, you should have the documents legalized and translated into Spanish when it’s necessary.

The documents needed for Non-Lucrative Visa Spain are:

  • National visa application form
  • Valid passport with sufficient validity and blank pages
  • Passport-sized biometric photos
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements, pension letters, investment certificates)
  • Private health insurance certificate
  • Criminal record certificate
  • Medical certificate
  • Proof of residence in consular district
  • Family documents for dependents (marriage and birth certificates)
  • Proof of payment for the required fees

Consulates focus heavily on financial proof, health insurance, and criminal records. So it is better to collect them correctly. If you need further information, you can find these details in our blog about Non-Lucrative Residence Permit for Spain.

Application Process for The Visa

When applying, you need to follow the instructions from your Spanish consulate. For instance, you must submit your application in person, or if you are a minor, a parent or guardian can do it for you. Usually, applications are made through authorized centers like BLS International, by appointment.

The consulate might ask you for extra documents or call you for an interview to complete your application. The process usually takes up to 90 days but can take longer if more information is needed. 

Once approved, you must collect your visa in person within one month. If your application is refused, you will get a written explanation and can appeal within the given time. The visa will be valid for 90 days, therefore, after you arrive in Spain, you must apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within one month to register your legal residence.

 

Briefly, you can follow these steps for the whole process:

  1. Identify and review requirements of your Spanish consulate.
  2. Gather, legalize, and translate documents.
  3. Schedule and attend your consulate appointment.
  4. Submit application, biometric data, and pay fees.
  5. Wait up to 90 days for processing.
  6. Collect visa and travel to Spain.
  7. Apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within one month.

Additionally, if you have a question about how to renew Non-Lucrative Visa Spain, you should know that the renewal process is similar to obtaining it for the first time. It requires updated financial and insurance documents, and the requirements remain the same.

While you are not required to stay continuously in the country during the first year, you must spend more than 183 days per calendar year in Spain to be eligible for renewal of the Non-Lucrative Visa. In other words, failure to meet this minimum residency requirement could make visa renewal difficult.

Long-Term Residency and Citizenship in Spain

After several years of legal residence with successful visa renewals, the Non-Luctrative Visa holders can apply for long-term residency. Therefore, you will be able to gain more stable and permanent residency rights in the country. 

Following a longer period of continuous legal residence, visa holders will also become eligible to apply for citizenship. It will allow you to enjoy full rights as the country’s nationals, including a Spanish passport and EU mobility!

Obtaining a Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain with TEKCE VISA

While the Non-Lucrative Visa application process is not overly complicated, it requires precision, up-to-date knowledge, and meticulous attention to detail. This is why working with us will give you the advantage of confidently obtaining the visa. 

TEKCE VISA is a leading international consultancy company with a strong reputation for successful residency and visa applications. We can guide you with clear communication, making the entire process smoother for our clients from beginning to end.

If you are interested in property buying for Non-Lucrative Visa Spain or dreaming of residency, you can contact our consultants for personalized assistance today!

Frequently Asked Questions

1Do you pay taxes on Spain Non-Lucrative Visa holders?
Yes, if you spend more than 183 days in Spain during a calendar year, you are considered a tax resident and must pay taxes on your worldwide income including pensions, dividends, and other passive income.
2How often must I renew the Non-Lucrative Visa?
The visa is initially granted for one year and can be renewed every one or two years, depending on consulate policies, as long as you continue to meet the requirements.
3Can I switch from a Non-Lucrative Visa to a work visa later?
Yes, but you need to apply for the appropriate work permit separately.
4What happens if my financial situation changes during my stay?
You must continue to meet financial requirements at renewal. Significant changes may affect your ability to renew the visa.
5Can I bring my pet to Spain if I have a Non-Lucrative Visa?
Yes, pets are allowed, but you have to follow Spain’s entry rules. This includes a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and a health certificate issued shortly before travel.
6Do I need to open a Spanish bank account after moving?
It’s not required for the visa itself, but having a Spanish bank account is highly recommended.
7Can I drive in Spain with my current driver’s license?
Yes, you can use your foreign license for up to 6 months after arriving. After that, depending on your country, you may need to exchange it for a Spanish license or take a local driving test.
8Do I have to register with local authorities once in Spain?
Yes. You must register your address with the local town hall. This is important for accessing public services, enrolling children in school, and renewing your residency.
9Are some parts of Spain better suited for Non-Lucrative Visa holders?
Yes. Cities like Valencia, Málaga, and Alicante are very popular with Non-Lucrative Visa holders due to their good infrastructure, international communities, and support services for expats.

Take the First Step to Live in Spain

Fill out the contact form and ask an expert!


Yeni Residency Turkey
Name / Surname
Name / Surname