Everything you need to know about the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain
If you dream of living in Spain and enjoying its Mediterranean lifestyle without the need to work, the non-lucrative visa may be your best option. This residence permit is designed for foreigners with sufficient financial means to support themselves without engaging in any professional or employment activity. In 2024, according to the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, more than 23,000 people obtained this visa — an 18% increase compared to the previous year.
In this comprehensive guide by Orience, you’ll discover the requirements, steps, and benefits to obtain the non-lucrative visa in Spain, as well as how our team can support you at every stage of the process to ensure a successful application.
What is the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain?
The non-lucrative residence visa allows non-EU citizens to legally reside in Spain without performing any economic or professional activity. It’s designed for retirees, investors, or individuals with sufficient passive income to live comfortably in the country.
This type of visa is ideal for those wishing to enjoy life in Spain, access the public healthcare system, enroll their children in schools, or even later start a process to obtain long-term residence or Spanish citizenship.
Requirements to obtain the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain
To apply for this visa, you must demonstrate that you meet specific criteria set by Spanish law. The main requirements include:
- Sufficient financial means: the main applicant must show income of at least 400% of the IPREM, equivalent to approximately €2,800 per month or €34,000 per year. For each additional family member, 100% of the IPREM (about €700 per month) is required.
- Private health insurance: full coverage in Spain, with no copayments or waiting periods.
- Medical certificate: issued by a licensed physician confirming that the applicant does not suffer from diseases that may affect public health.
- Criminal record certificate: from the countries where the applicant has lived in the last five years.
- Valid passport: with at least one year of validity.
- Proof of accommodation: rental contract or property deed in Spain.
Step-by-Step process to apply for the Non-Lucrative Visa
1. Document Preparation
The first step is to gather all required documents. All foreign-issued documents must be legalized or apostilled and, if applicable, translated into Spanish by a sworn translator.
2. Application Submission at the Spanish Consulate
The application must be submitted at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country of origin or legal residence. It’s recommended to book an appointment well in advance, as waiting times in some countries may exceed six weeks.
3. Consular Interview and Fee Payment
During the appointment, a personal interview will be conducted to assess your ties to Spain and your financial means. A consular fee of approximately €80 must also be paid.
4. Application Decision
The consulate has a period of 30 to 60 days to decide on the application. Once approved, you have one month to collect your visa and travel to Spain.
5. Applying for the Residence Card (TIE)
Once in Spain, you must apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) at the police station corresponding to your place of residence. This document certifies your legal stay in the country.
Duration and Renewal of the Non-Lucrative Visa
The non-lucrative visa has an initial validity of one year. It can be renewed for two-year periods, provided the applicant continues to meet the financial and residency requirements. After five consecutive years of residence, you may apply for permanent residency and eventually for Spanish citizenship.
Benefits of the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain
- Legal residence without working: ideal for retirees or individuals with passive income.
- Access to Spain’s public healthcare system: ranked among the best in Europe by the WHO.
- Path to citizenship: after 10 years of residence (less for Latin Americans or Sephardic Jews).
- Family reunification: include your spouse and dependent children.
- Freedom of movement in the Schengen Area: up to 90 days per semester in other European countries.
Common mistakes when applying for the Non-Lucrative Visa
According to the General Council of Spanish Lawyers, over 20% of initial applications are rejected due to documentation errors or insufficient proof of funds. The most common mistakes include:
- Submitting bank statements without certification or official translation.
- Purchasing health insurance with inadequate coverage.
- Failing to prove accommodation in Spain.
- Errors in document apostille or legalization.
Orience provides comprehensive guidance to avoid these mistakes, ensuring a fast, secure, and personalized process.
Recent Data on the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain
Spain has become one of the top destinations for non-working expatriates. According to Expat Insider 2024, it ranks third worldwide for quality of life, behind only Portugal and Mexico. Moreover, the National Statistics Institute (INE) reports that the number of long-term foreign residents has increased by 22% over the past three years.
How Orience helps you obtain your Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain
At Orience, we guide our clients through every step of the non-lucrative visa application process:
- Personalized advice to meet financial and documentation requirements.
- Preparation and legal review of all necessary documents.
- Coordination with consulates and local authorities.
- Assistance in obtaining the TIE and renewing your permit.
With our expertise and network of legal professionals, we ensure a smooth transition to make Spain your new home.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain
Can I work with the non-lucrative visa in Spain?
No, this visa does not allow you to perform any paid activities. However, after one year of residence, you may switch to a work permit if you meet the requirements.
How much money do I need to obtain the non-lucrative visa?
You must demonstrate minimum annual income of €34,000 for the main applicant, plus about €8,500 for each additional family member.
How long does the non-lucrative visa process take in Spain?
The average processing time is between 1 and 3 months from submission at the consulate to resolution.
Can I include my family in the non-lucrative visa application?
Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children, provided you demonstrate sufficient financial means for all applicants.
Does the non-lucrative visa count toward Spanish citizenship?
Yes, the time lived under this visa counts toward the residence period required for citizenship once eligibility criteria are met.
Conclusion
The non-lucrative visa in Spain is an excellent option for those seeking a stable residence in Europe without the need to work. With Orience’s professional guidance, you can manage your application safely and efficiently — avoiding mistakes and optimizing your timeline to start your new life in Spain with total peace of mind.