What is the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa in Spain and Who Can Apply?

The non-lucrative residence visa in Spain is an authorisation for non-EU citizens who wish to reside in the country without carrying out work or professional activities. It is a very attractive option for people with passive income, retirees or investors who want to live in Spain legally without having to work.

At Laitom Abogados, we are specialists in foreigners and we accompany our clients throughout the whole process of applying for this visa, from the preparation of the documentation to the presentation at the consulate.

Who can apply for this visa?

This visa is designed for citizens from outside the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland, who can demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay in Spain, without the need to exercise an employment or professional activity in the country.

It is also valid for both individual applicants and family units. If you are thinking of moving to Spain peacefully and legally, at Laitom Abogados we can help you assess whether this visa is the best option for your personal and family situation.

Main requirements:

• Demonstrate sufficient financial means:
  • The applicant must prove that he/she has an amount equivalent to 400% of the annual IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples), which is equivalent to an income of €2,400 per month for one person. In 2025, this equates to approximately €30,000 per person per year. In the case of applying for residence for a family nucleus, this amount plus 100% for each additional family member would have to be accredited.
• Private health insurance in Spain:
  • Must be contracted with an authorised company in Spain, with no co-payments and full coverage.
• Medical certificate:
  • Accrediting that you do not suffer from diseases that may have repercussions on public health.
• Criminal record:
  • Issued by the authorities of the country or countries where you have resided in the last five years.
• Not being in an irregular situation in Spanish territory.

In our office, we take care of reviewing all your documentation before submitting the application, to ensure that you comply with each of the requirements of Spanish law.

Where do I apply?

The procedure must be initiated at the Spanish consulate or embassy in the country of origin or legal residence. It is not possible to apply for this visa directly from Spain as a tourist.

Once granted, a visa is granted for 180 days to enter Spain and, within the first month of entry, the Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE) must be applied for at the corresponding foreigners’ office.

How long does it last?

Initially it is granted for one year, with the possibility of renewal for an additional two years, as long as you continue to meet the economic requirements and have resided in Spain for at least 183 days a year.

After five years, you will be able to apply for long-term residence, and eventually even start the process towards Spanish nationality.

If you are interested in starting your new life in Spain without having to work here, contact Laitom Abogados. We are immigration lawyers in Málaga and we will be happy to study your case and help you every step of the way.