Non-Lucrative Visa Spain: Complete 2025 Guide

  • 4 weeks ago

Looking to live in Spain? The Non-Lucrative Visa offers non-EU nationals the opportunity to reside in the country without engaging in work or professional activities. It’s a great option for retirees, individuals with passive income, or anyone who can demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves.

The visa for non-working is not just a residency permit; it’s an opportunity to build a new life in Spain. It grants holders an initial one-year residency permit, which can be extended for up to four more years if income and savings requirements are consistently met. After five years, it opens the door to permanent residency and, eventually, Spanish citizenship.

Our expert immigration lawyers handle every step: documents, consular appointments, and a smooth approval process. With a proven track record of successful applications, we ensure every detail is handled with precision, from compiling documents to meeting all consular requirements.

Why trust us? Our deep expertise in Spanish immigration law and our client-focused approach make the process straightforward and stress-free. Whether you’re applying individually or as a family, we tailor our services to your needs, delivering a smooth path to residency in Spain.

Ready to move to Spain? Contact our expert team today for a smooth and successful visa application!

What is a non-lucrative visa Spain (NLV Spain)?

This a Spanish residence permit designed for non-EU nationals who wish to live in Spain without working or engaging in any professional activity. It is the ideal option for retirees, individuals with passive income, or those seeking to enjoy Spain’s exceptional quality of life.

This visa allows you to:

Reside in Spain for an initial period of one year, with the option to renew every two years.

Bring your family members (spouse, children, or dependents), provided you can demonstrate sufficient financial means to support them..Enjoy free travel throughout the Schengen area, which includes 26 European countries.

Unlike the Golden Visa, this visa does not require any investment in Spanish real estate. However, you must prove that you have the necessary funds to cover your living expenses for at least a year: €28,800 for the main applicant and €7,200 per dependent.

After five years of residency, you can apply for permanent residency, opening the door to even greater stability and benefits in Spain.

Spain stands out globally for its quality of life, excellent climate, cultural richness, and strong family-oriented environment. With this visa, you can make Spain your home and experience everything the country has to offer while enjoying seamless travel across Europe.

What Activities Are Restricted Under This Spanish Visa?

This permit is designed for individuals who wish to reside in Spain without engaging in any form of paid work or professional activity within the country. This means that holders of this visa are strictly prohibited from undertaking employment or earning income through business activities in Spain.

Our legal experts can clarify any doubts regarding these restrictions and guide you on maintaining compliance with Spanish immigration laws. If your circumstances change, we can advise on potential visa modifications suited to your goals.

Who is Eligible for a Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain?

This permit in Spain is designed for non-EU nationals who wish to live in Spain without engaging in any professional or economic activity. This visa is ideal for individuals with sufficient financial means to support themselves and their families.

Specifically, the visa is suitable for:

Retirees: Individuals looking to enjoy their retirement in Spain’s favorable climate and excellent quality of life.

Those with Passive Income: Applicants who live off pensions, rental income, dividends, or savings.

Professionals on Sabbatical: Individuals who want to take a break from work while residing in Spain for an extended period.

Future Workers: After one year of holding this permit, you can apply for a work permit or self-employed visa, opening opportunities to work legally in Spain.

Spain non lucrative visa income requirements

To apply for non-working residents in Spain, you must meet the following non-lucrative visa spain financial requirements 2025 and other conditions:

Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least €28,800 for the main applicant (400% of the IPREM).:

Your income should generally exceed 400% of the IPREM monthly. For each additional dependent, €7,200 annually (100% of the IPREM) is required. Acceptable proof includes:

Bank statements (from the last 6 months).

Pension income.

Savings accounts or investment certificates.

Financial statements must be presented in euros or include clear conversion rates. This verification must be repeated at each renewal of the visa, aligning with the IPREM of that year.

No Employment or Economic Activity:

Applicants must confirm they will not engage in any work or economic activity while residing in Spain.

Clean Criminal Record:

Provide a criminal background check issued within the last 3 months. Requirements may vary slightly depending on the consulate.

Required Documents for Dependents:

If you are including family members, the following documents are required:

Spouse: Marriage certificate issued by the civil registry.

Unmarried Partner: Certificate of registration of partnership or other documents substantiating the relationship.

Minor Children: Birth certificate issued by the civil registry.

Adult Children: Documents proving financial dependence and civil status, showing they are part of the family unit.

Parents: Proof of financial dependence and confirmation of their inclusion in the family unit.

Health Insurance Requirements for the Non-Lucrative Visa

To apply for this type of visa in Spain, you must have private health insurance that meets specific criteria. The policy must:

Offer full medical coverage equivalent to the Spanish public health system.

Have no co-payments or deductibles.

Be valid throughout Spain for the duration of your stay.

At our firm, we have established agreements with trusted insurance providers to offer tailored health insurance policies for our clients. This ensures you meet all visa requirements with ease. Contact us for more details on our exclusive insurance solutions.

How to Prove You Have Enough Funds for the Non-Lucrative Visa in 2025?

To qualify for a this residency permit, applicants must show they have enough reliable financial resources to live in Spain without working. You can use various documents to prove your financial means while staying in Spain. This evidence includes:

Bank Statements: Provide bank statements for the last 6-12 months before the application date. These should show a stable income or balance, demonstrating your savings. Bank statements, dated within the last 6 months, must show that the funds are readily accessible to the applicant. Multiple accounts can be combined to meet this requirement. You should submit the statements to the Spanish consulate.

Investments: You can use evidence of investments, such as property, stocks, or bonds. Submit documentation that reflects the value and stability of these investments.

Pensions: If relying on a pension, provide official documentation showing regular pension receipts. This documentation should verify that you receive a stable income.

Provide documentation of other income sources, such as rental income, dividends, or additional financial support

For example, having €15,000 in savings and a €15,000 annual pension qualifies you for the visa.

You also need a bank document to verify your credit cards and property value. You can spread the required funds across multiple bank accounts.

The main applicant must have these savings in their name or on their behalf. Dependents must provide a marriage certificate or birth certificate.

All certificates, including marriage or birth documents, must be officially translated by a Spanish sworn translator and apostilled for validity.

How to Renew Your Residency Permit in Spain

After the initial validity period of your visa, you will need to apply for a renewal to continue residing in Spain. The renewal process involves submitting updated financial proof, maintaining valid health insurance, and complying with all requirements set by Spanish immigration authorities.

In addition to meeting these criteria, you must reside in Spain for a minimum of 183 days per year, equivalent to just over six months, to qualify for renewal. This residency requirement not only ensures your eligibility to renew the visa but also establishes your status as a Spanish tax resident, subjecting you to the country’s tax regulations.

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