Living in Spain Without Working: The Non-Lucrative Visa Explained
If you're a non-EU citizen, your stay in Spain without a visa is generally limited to 90 days within a 180-day period. For anything longer—whether you're planning a quiet retirement, a long sabbatical, or simply want to immerse yourself in the Spanish lifestyle—you’ll need to apply for a residency permit.
One of the most accessible and flexible options for non-EU nationals is the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV). It’s straightforward, relatively low-barrier compared to other residence permits, and particularly well-suited for retirees or those with passive income or sufficient savings.
What Is the Non-Lucrative Visa?
The Non-Lucrative Visa allows you to legally reside in Spain without engaging in any professional or economic activity. In other words, you can't work or run a business while on this visa—but you can live, study, invest, and travel freely throughout the Schengen Zone.
This visa is ideal for:
• Pensioners and retirees
• Individuals with passive income (e.g., rental income, investments)
• People with substantial savings looking to enjoy a lifestyle change
While work is restricted, NLV holders are free to:
• Buy property
• Enrol in educational programs
• Travel across Schengen countries
• Bring immediate family members under the same visa scheme
Key Requirements for the Non-Lucrative Visa
To qualify for the NLV, you’ll need to meet several core requirements. The two most critical are:
1. Financial Means
You must prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself (and your dependents) without working.
The minimum income requirement is based on the IPREM (Spain's official minimum income index). For 2025, it breaks down as follows:
• Main applicant: 400% of IPREM = approx. €2,400/month or €28,800/year
• Each dependent: 100% of IPREM = approx. €600/month or €7,200/year
Acceptable proof of funds can include:
• Bank statements
• Investment or pension income
Note: Specific documentation requirements can vary by consulate. Always check the exact list with the Spanish Consulate where you plan to apply.
2. Private Health Insurance
Applicants must have full private health insurance with a provider authorized to operate in Spain, offering coverage equivalent to the Spanish public system—meaning no co-payments and comprehensive hospital assistance. Check with us the best covers from Sanitas, Spain’s leading insurance provider
3. Additional Documentation incudes:
• Police clearance (criminal record certificate)
• Medical certificate
• Proof of accommodation in Spain
• Valid passport and passport-sized photos
• Other administrative documents as required, like for example marriage and birth certificates in case you bring family members
Where and How to Apply
Your initial application must be submitted from your home country (or country of legal residence), at the Spanish Consulate responsible for your area.
Once approved:
• You’ll receive a 3-month entry visa
• You must enter Spain during that window
• Upon entry, get your passport stamped by customs
• Within 30 days of arrival, apply for your residence card (TIE) at the local police office near your residence in Spain
Renewals and Long-Term Plans
The initial non-lucrative residence is granted for 1 year, after which you can renew it for 2 years, and later again for another 2 years. After 5 years, you may become eligible for long-term residency.
Renewal applications can be submitted up to 60 days before your card expires and up to 90 days after. For renewals, you must again prove sufficient funds—but this time, for the next 2 years.
Let Us Guide You Through the Process
At Malaga Expat Consulting, we’ve helped many clients navigate every step of their move to Spain—from the initial NLV application at Consulates to obtaining the TIE card and managing visa renewals.
Whether you're planning your relocation or are already enjoying life on the Costa del Sol and need help renewing your residency, we’re here to assist.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you make Spain your new home