The Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa
The Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa, often called the Retirement Visa or Passive Income Visa, is a residence permit that allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain without engaging in any professional or economic activity. It’s ideal for retirees, remote investors, or anyone who can financially support themselves without working while in Spain.
Originally designed for people who wish to enjoy life in Spain without taking a local job, the Non-Lucrative Visa has become increasingly popular among retirees, long-term visitors, and individuals with passive income. It provides a legal path to reside in Spain long-term, while maintaining your income sources abroad.
Who is the Non-Lucrative Visa for?
The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) is intended for individuals who can demonstrate stable, sufficient income from outside Spain. Typical applicants include:
- Retirees receiving pensions or investment income.
- Professionals on sabbatical or taking extended time off work.
- Investors or landlords living off returns, dividends, or rental income.
- Families relocating to Spain without immediate plans to work.
You can include your spouse and dependent children in the same application, making this visa an attractive choice for families who want to relocate and enjoy Spain’s quality of life.
What are the main eligibility requirements?
To apply for the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa, you must meet specific financial and documentation requirements. These ensure you can support yourself and any dependents without working in Spain.
Applicants generally need to:
- Show proof of sufficient financial means: At least 400% of the IPREM (Spain’s official income index) per year for the main applicant — roughly €28,000 in 2025.
- Plus 100% of the IPREM (~€7,000 per year) for each dependent.
- Provide bank statements or proof of regular income (e.g., pension, dividends, rental income).
- Have private health insurance that provides full coverage in Spain.
- Present a clean criminal record covering the past five years.
- Obtain a medical certificate confirming you are free from contagious diseases.
- Hold a valid passport with at least one year of validity remaining.
Unlike the Digital Nomad Visa, you cannot work for any company or client while in Spain on this visa — your income must come entirely from non-work sources.
This visa can only be applied before arriving in Spain, from the corresponding Spanish Consulate.
What are the key benefits of the Non-Lucrative Visa?
The Non-Lucrative Visa is one of Spain’s most straightforward residence permits and offers several appealing advantages:
✅ Long-term residence in Spain — Initial visa valid for one year, renewable for two years at a time, up to five years, after which you can apply for permanent residency.
✅ Family inclusion — Bring your spouse and children under the same application.
✅ Freedom to travel within the Schengen Zone (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).
✅ Potential pathway to Spanish permanent residency and citizenship after long-term residence.
✅ Enjoy Spain’s lifestyle — Mediterranean climate, rich culture, safety, and affordable cost of living.
Can you work in Spain with a Non-Lucrative Visa?
No — the visa does not permit employment or freelance work for Spanish or foreign companies. However, after one year of residence, it’s possible to modify your status to a work permit (if you meet the eligibility criteria).
Many NLV holders later transition to other residence types, such as Entrepreneur Visas or Digital Nomad Visas, once they decide to start a business or take up remote work officially.
Why choose Spain for long term residence?
Spain offers one of Europe’s most welcoming lifestyles for retirees and passive residents — world-class healthcare, excellent infrastructure, a stable climate, and affordable living costs compared to Northern Europe or North America. From the peaceful coasts of Valencia and Malaga to vibrant urban life in Madrid or Barcelona, Spain provides a balance of comfort, safety, and culture few countries can match.
Want to assess your eligibility for Spain's Non-Lucrative Visa? Book a call.