
You can apply for a non-lucrative visa for Spain if:
- You are a non-EU citizen.
- You want to live in Spain long-term.
- You have the necessary financial means to live without working.
- You don’t want to work in Spain.
- You have health insurance.
- You don’t have a criminal record.
- You regularly stay in Spain.
What is Spain’s non-lucrative visa (NLV)?
Spain’s non-lucrative visa is one of the most popular residency options for people looking to live in Spain or retire to Spain. To qualify, you must show that you have enough income to support yourself. In this article, we’ll cover: What is the Spain non-lucrative visa (NLV)? What are the NLV requirements? How to get the NLV?
Can a retiree work in Spain on non-lucrative visa?
The Spanish non-lucrative visa doesn’t allow you to work, and as a retiree, you probably don’t plan on working there. As a retiree, you can stay in Spain on a Spanish non-lucrative visa for one year, but you can renew it for another two years.
What is proof of funds for a Spain non-lucrative visa?
Proof of funds is the core requirement to obtain the non-lucrative visa in Spain. In order to be elegible for a Non Lucrative visa in Spain, the Spanish Government dictates that you must prove having the following income:
What is a non-lucrative residence visa?
The non-lucrative residence visa is the most preferred for most expats who find Spain a better destination since it is not mandatory to invest in Spain for you to obtain it. However, the applicants must prove their financial capabilities of supporting their stay in Spain for at least one year without working.

How much money do I need for a non lucrative visa in Spain?
The minimum amount of money you must have to get this residence permit. In the case of the non-lucrative visa, you must prove that you have 400% of the IPREM annually on your bank account. For this year 2021, the IPREM is 564,90€ for a month.
How do I get a non lucrative visa for Spain?
Required documentsNational visa application form. . ... Non-working residence visa application form. . ... Photograph. ... Valid, unexpired passport. ... Proof of financial means. ... Health insurance. ... Criminal record check certificate. ... Medical certificate.More items...
What is a non lucrative Spanish visa?
Spain's non-lucrative visa allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain if they can prove that they have the financial resources to support themselves and their family. A non-lucrative visa can be applied for by third-country nationals who wish to reside in Spain for longer than 90 days and do not intend to work in Spain.
How long does it take to process a non lucrative visa for Spain?
The Spanish authorities may take up to three months to process your non-lucrative residence visa application. Though most countries process the visa from two to five weeks, if the Spanish authorities in your country receive a lot of applications for Spain, then the processing may be delayed to three months.
How much money do you need in the bank to get residency in Spain?
REQUIREMENTS TO APPLY FOR RESIDENCY FROM THE EUROPEAN UNION As an EU resident, you must prove that you have €6,000 in your bank account and that you have a private medical policy. Alternatively, you can get a job offer in Spain and it will work as well.
How long can you stay in Spain if you own a property?
At present you can only spend up to 90 days in Spain, then you must leave the country. You will then not be able to return to the Schengen Area until 180 days have passed since your date of entry into Spain (or elsewhere in the Schengen Area).
How long can I be out of Spain on a non lucrative visa?
Validity period of the visa: The visa will be valid for 90 days. Once in Spain, a Foreigner Identity Card must be applied for within a period of 1 month from the applicant's entry into Spain, at the Foreign Nationals' Office or the corresponding Police Station.
How much money do I need in the bank for Spanish residency 2021?
You must have income of at least €25,560 annually, plus €6,390 per each additional family member. Income may be derived from investments, annuities, sabbaticals and any other sources of income. The visa issued will have a validity of three months and fifteen days, with multiple entries and 90 days of stay in Spain.
How long can I stay in Spain without becoming a resident?
How long can I stay in Spain without becoming a resident? You can stay in Spain for a maximum of 183 days per year (6 months) in order to not become a resident. If you spend an extra day (184 days and onwards), you will be regarded as a resident, hence paying resident taxes in the country.
Can I get residency in Spain if I buy a house?
Yes, you can get residency in Spain after buying a house, and that is thanks to the golden visa scheme. Since 2013, non-EU citizens who purchase a property in the Spanish territory can get a 2-year residence permit (that can be renewed) as long as the property investment is at least € 500.000.
Can you get a visa to stay in Spain longer than 90 days?
The only way to stay in Spain longer than 90 days is to apply for a long-term visa. There are several options available. The most popular option for expats tends to be the non-lucrative visa which allows you to be resident in Spain but does not allow you to work there.
What visa do I need to work remotely in Spain?
Digital Nomad VisaThe Spain DNV is a travel authorization that will allow non-EU citizens to legally live and work in Spain. Generally, a Digital Nomad Visa is issued to remote workers who work independently of their location. I should mention that the new Law responsible for the Digital Nomad Visa is known as the Startup Act.
How much money do I need in the bank for Spanish residency 2021?
You must have income of at least €25,560 annually, plus €6,390 per each additional family member. Income may be derived from investments, annuities, sabbaticals and any other sources of income. The visa issued will have a validity of three months and fifteen days, with multiple entries and 90 days of stay in Spain.
Can I get residency in Spain if I buy a house?
Yes, you can get residency in Spain after buying a house, and that is thanks to the golden visa scheme. Since 2013, non-EU citizens who purchase a property in the Spanish territory can get a 2-year residence permit (that can be renewed) as long as the property investment is at least € 500.000.
How can I stay in Spain for 6 months?
If you are a non-EEA national (including British) and wish to stay in Spain for longer than 90 days, you will need a visa. You should apply for the visa that suits your purpose from a Spanish Consulate in your home country....Your dependents may be:Spouse or legal partner.Children.Parents.
How do I get a golden visa for Spain?
To be eligible for a Spanish Golden Visa, you must make one of the following investments: Purchase real estate in Spain worth at least €500,000. The real estate can be one single unit or several, with an overall worth of no less than €500,000. Make an investment in the Spanish public debt of at least €2,000,000.
What is a Non Lucrative Visa Spain?
A non-lucrative residence visa is a unique type of residency permit in Spain for non-European citizens who insinuate to travel to Spain for long te...
What Should You Avoid During Application for the NLV?
To increase the chances of a successful visa application, ensure that you provide the correct information when filling your application forms. The...
If I apply for a spanish Non-Lucrative Visa, must I live in Spain for a certain period of time?
Yes, this residence requires you to stay a minimum of 183 days a year in the country.
How much money do you need for a non lucrative visa Spain?
For the support of the main applicant, monthly, 400 % of the IPREM which in 2022 amounts to €579,02, being €2.316,08 or its legal equivalent in for...
If I apply for a spanish Non-Lucrative Visa, must I live in Spain for a certain period of time?
Yes, this residence requires you to stay a minimum of 183 days a year in the country.
With the Non Lucrative Visa you become a tax resident in Spain?
This permit requires you to stay a minimum of 183 days a year in Spain in order to be able to renew it, in conclusion you will become a Spanish tax...
Can I work with the non lucrative visa in Spain? or remotely?
The non lucrative visa is an entry permit to enter Spain for residence purposes without working, therefore with the NLV you cannot work anywhere, o...
If I don't want to stay more than 183 days in Spain, which visa is the most advisable, so as to avoi...
If you do not want to stay more than 183 days in Spain and you want to avoid paying taxes but obtain Spanish residency we recommend the Golden Visa.
What is non-lucrative residency in Spain?
Non-Lucrative residency gives non-EU citizens the right to live in Spain for more than 6 months. There is a restriction on working while a non-lucr...
Who can apply for a Spain non-lucrative visa?
The non-lucrative visa, Spain is open to any non-EU citizen who meets the visa requirements.
Can UK citizens apply for a non-lucrative visa after BREXIT?
Yes, the non-lucrative visa is the most popular option for UK citizens moving to Spain after BREXIT.
What are your fees for a non-lucrative visa for Spain?
Each application is different, so we can't give you an exact figure before meeting with one of our lawyers. We've done a comprehensive assessment o...
What fees do the embassy/consulate charge?
The Spain non-lucrative visa application fee varies depending on the country of application, the consulate/embassy, and the document requirements....
Do I get a refund if my NLV application is submitted?
No, there is no refund. For this reason, we strongly recommend using a quality NLV Spanish Immigration Lawyer.
Where do I submit my Spanish non-lucrative visa application?
You must use the nearest consulate or embassy to your current place of residence. Here are some popular options -> UK: London, Manchester, or Edinb...
Can I submit my non-lucrative visa application in Spain?
No, you must apply in your home country at the nearest Spanish consulate or embassy.
When should I start to gather documents for my non-lucrative visa application?
All documentation must be less than three months old; you'll need to ensure you have everything still valid at the time of your appointment.
How long does it take to get a non-lucrative visa application appointment at the consulate/embassy?
The wait time differs by consulate + can change over time. Please speak to your Spanish Immigration Lawyer for the best time to book your appointme...
What is the main requirement to get a non-lucrative visa in Spain?
The main requirement to get the Non Lucrative Visa in Spain is to have enough economic means to stay in the country .
Where to collect Spanish visa?
Collection of the visa at the Spanish consular post.
How long does a ban on entry last in Spain?
This requirement basically translates into not having an entry ban in the countries that make up the Schengen territory, of which Spain is a part. According to article 58 of the Aliens Act, any expulsion (deportation) entails a ban on entry (normally 3 to 5 years, but in exceptional cases it can last 10 years).
How long does it take to get a Spanish visa?
It may take the Spanish authorities up to three months to process your application for a non-lucrative residency visa. If the Spanish authorities in your country accept a number of applications for Spain, while most countries handle the visa from two to five weeks, so the processing can be extended to three months.
How long is a passport valid in Spain?
Valid passport or travel document, recognized as valid in Spain, with a minimum validity of 1 year. Criminal record certificate, or equivalent document, if the applicant is of legal age, issued by the authorities of the country of origin or of the countries where he/she has resided in the last 5 years.
What is a residency permit in Spain?
This residency permit will allow you to settle with your family in Spain by demonstrating the availability of sufficient economic means.
Can a foreigner be irregularly in Spain?
Not to be irregularly in Spanish territory: The vast majority of residence permits must be applied for at the country of origin. The application begins in the country where the foreigner resides and not in Spain. In this case, the temporary non-lucrative residence authorization is not the exception and therefore, it must be applied for in the foreigner’s country of origin / residence.
What is non-lucrative income in Spain?
Non-lucrative means that you can support yourself without earning an income in Spain. For this, you need to show sufficient savings in a bank account. Alternatively, you must be able to show guaranteed income, like a trust fund disbursement or pension. Another path is income from investments like dividends, rental income from an investment property, or interest earned.
What is the most popular retirement visa in Spain?
You’ll need extra for family members. The NLV is the most popular Spain retirement visa. You must obtain private health insurance for everyone on the NLV application. Using a quality Spanish Immigration lawyer will improve your chances of being accepted and save you lots of time and effort.
How long does it take to renew a NLV in Spain?
The Spanish National Immigration Service issues the NLV for two years. After the initial two years, you can renew the NLV for 2 x two-year extensions. You can register dependent family members on your application. You cannot work in Spain on a non-lucrative visa, but you can transfer to a work permit after one year.
How long does the NLV last in Spain?
The Spanish National Immigration Service issues the NLV for two years.
How many countries can you travel to without a visa?
The residency allows travel to any of the 26 SCHENGEN member nations without a visa.
How many days do you have to live in Spain to renew a visa?
The renewal process will follow a similar process to the application, with a couple of key differences. You must have lived more than 183 days in Spain in the each year of the visa. This requirement can have tax implications. You can apply in Spain.
How long do you have to stay in Spain to renew your visa?
No benefits are claimable by you or your family members on the visa. You must spend more than 183 days of per year in Spain to renew the visa. This can make you a legal tax resident in Spain.
How to get a non-lucrative visa?
Required documents to get the non-lucrative visa 1 Copy of the Passport 2 Copy of the birth certificate 3 Medical certificate 4 Health insurance contracted with a private Spanish company 5 Proof of funds (minimum €26.000 per applicant) 6 Criminal Records
How long does it take to get a visa in Spain?
You will get a positive or negative response from them in 2 to 3 months. After a positive response, you will get your visa. That will enable you to travel to Spain in order to register in to any city or town in the country, record your fingerprints and then get your residence permit after 30 days.
Should I have the money in a Spanish bank account?
No, or at least not in all the cases. You can have the money in any financial institution located in your origin country. The only thing you must make sure that the main application is the holder of the account in the banking institution.
Can I get the non-lucrative residence permit after several years with the student visa?
No, you can’t. It is not possible to study several years with your student visa and then get the non-lucrative directly.
Is Immigration Lawyers Spain good?
They keep up on all new laws and regulations. Provide excellent and efficient service with great results. I use Immigration Lawyers Spain for my personal immigration needs and we also use them for our corporate immigration needs.
Do you have to have a Spanish bank account to send money to China?
Nevertheless, bear in mind that in countries such as China or Russia it is required to have the money in a Spanish bank account.
Can I invest in Spain with under the Non-lucrative residency?
Yes. Even though this visa does not allow you to work in the country, you can realize investments. For example, you can invest in stocks or funds in order to get an extra source of income.
What is a non-lucrative visa in Spain?
The Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa is for non-working individuals who have a reliable, ongoing source of income (pension s, investments, or a source outside the country - e.g. digital nomads who work remotely).
How long is a non-lucrative visa valid in Spain?
Once you have received this visa, you can enter Spain. The Non-Lucrative Visa is valid for one year, after which it is renewable for another two years (but sufficient income must be proved to cover both of years), then another two. After five years in Spain you can get a long-term residence permit (and after 10, you can apply for citizenship).
How much do you need to earn to obtain a Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain?
The minimum income needed to apply for a Non-Lucrative visa is €27,155 per year for an individual, or €33,893 for a married couple. If you're moving to Spain with children you'll also need to prove an additional income of €6,778 per minor . So the total income required annually for a family of four would be €47,451.
How long does it take to get a visa for Spain?
You'll need to do this via one of the Spanish Consulates in the UK (in London, Manchester & Edinburgh). The application takes 30-90 days to be approved, and there's a non-refundable fee to pay too.
How long does it take to get a residence permit in Spain?
After five years in Spain you can get a long-term residence permit (and after 10, you can apply for citizenship). After obtaining your visa and moving to Spain you will need to apply for TIE (foreigner’s identity card) and register with the Padron (census) in your local municipality within a month of arriving there.
1. What is the non-lucrative residence visa in Spain?
The non-lucrative visa is a residence permit for non-EU citizens wishing to reside in Spain for a period exceeding 90 days without carrying out any work or professional activity in the country. This visa is initially granted for a period of one year from the date of entry.
2. Who can benefit from the non-lucrative visa in Spain?
The visa can be applied for by anyone wishing to live in Spain for a year without working there. It is one of the most requested visas by the following people:
3. What are the conditions to be met to be eligible for this non-lucrative visa in Spain?
Although this residence permit is easier to obtain than others, there are several requirements you must meet to have a successful application:
4. Which documents must be submitted to the Consulate?
You will need to present the following documents to the Spanish Consulate in your country of residence:
5. How to apply for a non-lucrative visa?
Once you have gathered all the documents described above, you will need to make an appointment (no more than 90 days in advance) with the Spanish Consulate in your country of residence. The initial visa application cannot be made from Spain.
6. What is the duration of a non-lucrative visa in Spain?
This residence permit is valid for one year from the time you enter Spain. When renewing your visa, you have several options if you wish to stay in Spain:
7. Obtain the TIE and empadronamiento
Within one month of entering Spain, you must apply for your Foreigners’ Identity Card (TIE) as well as registering at the town hall (empadronamiento) to the municipality where you will reside.
What is non-lucrative income?
"Non-lucrative" is defined as not profitable or not gaining money. This means that you must support yourself without earning an income, in Spain or elsewhere (although as you'll see this isn't applied universally). To qualify at the most basic level you'll need to show sufficient savings in a bank account or income from retirement accounts, trust fund or a pension. Alternatively, you could show income from investments like dividends, rental income from an investment property, or interest earned. One family showed regular income from Google Adsense earnings, although this was not through a Spanish consulate in the US (it was in Mexico).
Do I need a letter of motivation to move to Spain?
You will need a letter of motivation! It doesn't say so on the site, but my lawyer is having us do one and I've heard other people say they need one! It's basically a love letter to Spain. You write who is applying, why you want to move to Spain, and how you plan on supporting yourself, (how much savings you are bringing). This letter may also be different based on the consulate.
Do Spanish consulates have FAQs?
The consulates' sites usually have common questions ( FAQs) and printouts of the forms needed. Below I will list the differences between the Visas based on consulate.
Does Spain have a retirement visa?
Spain doesn 't have a "retirement visa" per se, instead it has set up this visa in such a way that those who are retired and make a sufficient pension or live on a suitably large enough pile of savings will be allowed to live in Spain with a path to permanent residency.
Can Americans get a nonlucrative visa for Spain?
The nearly infamous, and relatively easy-to-get nonlucrative visa for Spain is now the primary route to Spanish residency for Americans, Canadians, Russians, and (thanks to Brexit) even for Brits. Here's a guide to doing the American NLV application process (assisted by an immigration attorney) with detailed consulate requirements variations and exclusive consulate ratings!
