Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain
Legal advice for retirees, financially independent individuals and families who want to live in Spain without working
Legal advice for retirees, financially independent individuals and families who want to live in Spain without working.
For non-EU citizens
Ideal for retirees and financially independent applicants.
No work in Spain
This visa is designed for residence, not employment activity.
Family applications
Ideal for retirees and financially independent applicants.
What is the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa?
The Non-Lucrative Visa is a residence authorisation for non-EU nationals who wish to live in Spain for more than 90 days without carrying out professional or employment activity in Spain.
Retierees
A common option for people who want to retire in Spain and have pensions, savings or other stable income.
Financially independent Clients
Suitable for applicants who can support themselves without needing to work in Spain.
Families Moving to Spain
Family members may apply together when sufficient financial resources and documents are provided.
Main requirements for the Non-Lucrative Visa
Many clients who move to Spain also need legal help with property purchase, tax residence, NIE applications, wills, inheritance planning, health insurance and relocation formalities.
At TLA, we can coordinate your immigration advice with your wider legal and tax situation in Spain.
- Valid passport with sufficient validity.
- Criminal record certificate from the relevant countries.
- Proof of sufficient financial means.
- Private health insurance with an authorised provider in Spain.
- Medical certificate.
- Proof of accommodation or residence address in Spain.
- Application forms and consular fees
- Legalised or apostilled documents, with sworn translations where required.
Financial Means Required
The financial requirement is normally calculated by reference to the Spanish IPREM. For 2025, the IPREM is 600 € per month.
Applicant
monthly amount
annual amount
reference
Main applicant
2,400 € / month
28,800 € / year
400% of IPREM
Each additional family member
600 € / month
7,200 € / year
100% of IPREM
Couple
3,000 € / month
36,000 € / year
Main applicant + 1 dependent
Couple with one child
3,600 € / month
43,200 € / year
Main applicant + 2 dependents
Important
Consulates may request bank certificates, account statements, pension certificates, investment income documents or other evidence showing that the applicant has sufficient resources to live in Spain.
Documents Must Be Properly Prepared
Foreign public documents normally need to be legalised or apostilled and translated into Spanish by a sworn translator when required.
Preparing documents incorrectly is one of the most common reasons for delay or refusal. Our team can review your documents before filing the application.
Documents checklist
- Passport copy
- Criminal record certificate
- Medical certificate
- Private health insurance policy
- Proof of financial means
- Marriage or birth certificates, if applying with family
- Proof of accommodation in Spain
- Consular application forms
How the Non-Lucrative Visa Process Works
Consular Application
The application is usually filed before the Spanish consulate in your country of residence.
Residence Card in Spain
After entering Spain, you must apply for your residence card within the required period.
Why Use TLA - Spanish Solicitors?
Immigration decisions often affect your tax residence, property purchase, estate planning and family relocation strategy.
We explain the process clearly and avoid unnecessary legal complexity.
We explain the process clearly and avoid unnecessary legal complexity.
We explain the process clearly and avoid unnecessary legal complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in Spain with a Non-Lucrative Visa?
No. This visa is intended for residence without professional or employment activity in Spain.
Can I include my spouse and children?
Yes, family members may usually be included if the financial and documentation requirements are met.
Do I need private health insurance?
In many cases, yes. The Digital Nomad Visa may allow certain non-EU citizens to live in Spain while working remotely for foreign employers or clients.
Can I apply from Spain?
In most cases, the initial Non-Lucrative Visa application must be filed at the Spanish consulate in the applicant’s country of residence.
Can I buy a property in Spain and obtain residence?
Buying property in Spain does not automatically give you residence. The former Golden Visa route for new real estate investors has been abolished.
What happens after the visa is approved?
After entering Spain, you must apply for your residence card within the required period.
READY TO START?
Get Legal Advice Before Starting Your Immigration Process
Avoid delays, refusals and document problems. Tell us your situation and our immigration lawyers will review whether the Non-Lucrative Visa is suitable for you and your family.