Complete Guide to Obtaining a Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain

“Visa to reside in Spain without performing a lucrative activity (work or professional) as long as he/she has guaranteed and sufficient means of subsistence. This visa does not authorize to work”, this is the basic explanation that the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides on the application for a non-lucrative visa in Spain.

Moving to this country is a decision that many people are making in search of a better quality of life, thanks to its weather, gastronomy, safety and access to quality services. Although there are several options to obtain residency, one of the most attractive for those who do not intend to work is the non-lucrative visa in Spain.

It has even been highlighted in the media: “ The European country that has become the favorite of people over 60 years ”, since it is a very attractive option”.

The non-lucrative visa in Spain allows applicants to enjoy a quiet life, with access to services such as education and healthcare, and at the same time, have the possibility of integrating family members in the moving process. It is an option that has gained popularity in recent years, especially for those seeking to enjoy a second residence or who want to settle permanently in Spanish territory.

From CABR Relocation Solutions, we will address in detail all the steps and requirements you must fulfil to obtain the non-lucrative visa, how to apply, and what to expect in terms of deadlines and legal obligations. If you are thinking of taking the leap and moving to Spain, this is the best way to do it without complications.

Non- lucrative visa application requirements

Obtaining a non-lucrative visa to reside in Spain requires meeting a series of specific requirements such as:

Proof of financial means

This is one of the most important requirements to obtain a non-lucrative visa in Spain, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself and your dependents without the need to work. The minimum income is based on the Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income (IPREM).

For the principal applicant, income equivalent to 400% of the IPREM is required, which in 2024 translates to approximately €28,800 per year for the non-lucrative visa in Spain.
If you are traveling with dependents, 100% of the additional IPREM will be added for each dependent, that is approximately €7,200 for each additional family member.

This income can come from a variety of sources, such as pensions, rental income, investments or savings, and must be documented by bank statements, tax returns or proof of other income to apply for the non-lucrative visa in Spain.

Private health insurance

One of the requirements for the non-lucrative visa in Spain is to have a private health insurance with full coverage, without co-payments, and that is subscribed with a company authorized to operate in the country.

The insurance must cover the same conditions offered by the Spanish public health system, guaranteeing access to all necessary health benefits. It is important to verify that it complies with all the regulations required by the Spanish consulate, since insurances that do not offer sufficient coverage may be considered as a reason for visa denial.

Criminal Record Certificate

Bureaucracy is a big obstacle when you want to have an expatriate retirement in Spain. Applying for and obtaining a Foreigner Identification Number (NIE) or registering in the public health system is better when an agency provides you with a clear assistance to manage these formalities.

Health certificate

It is necessary to present a health certificate certifying that you do not suffer from any serious contagious disease, in accordance with the International Health Regulations of the World Health Organization. This certificate must be issued by an authorized doctor and must indicate that you do not have conditions such as tuberculosis, leprosy, or any other infectious disease that represents a risk to public health, being another of the requirements for a non-lucrative visa in Spain,

Lodging in Spain

It is essential to prove that you have a place to live in Spain, either through the ownership of a property or through a rental contract. If you own a property, you must present the title deed of the property. If you are renting, the contract must be under your name, signed and valid during your initial stay in the country. Make sure you have a fixed address in order to facilitate your adaptation and compliance with immigration regulations.

Valid passport

Your passport must be valid for at least one year and contain at least two blank pages. It must also be in good condition, as it will be essential for the issuance of the visa. It is advisable to check the expiration date of your passport and renew it if necessary before starting the application process.

Recent photographs

You must submit two passport-size photographs, with white background and in color. The photographs must meet the quality and format standards required by the Spanish Consulate, similar to those used for the emission of official documents.

Additional documentation according to the consulate

In some cases, consulates request additional documents, depending on your personal or family situation. It is best to check the specific requirements of the Spanish consulate in your country of residence, as these may vary slightly.

Do you want to live a dream retirement with a fair cost of living? We help you enjoy a comfortable process, with the support of specialists that will facilitate the approval of your application and ensure your next step to a new stage of your life. ¡Contact us now!