Discover the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain
What is the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain?
5 key advantages of the non-lucrative visa in Spain
1. No minimum investment: Unlike other visas, such as the Golden Visa, there is no mandatory investment required to apply for the visa.
2. Access to the Schengen area: With this visa, you can travel freely throughout the 26 countries of the Schengen area, allowing you to explore much of Europe without the need for additional visas.
3. Family option: You can include your spouse and dependent children in the application, making this visa an excellent option for families looking for a new stage in Spain.
4. Pathway to permanent residence: After holding this visa for five years, you have the possibility to apply for permanent residence in Spain.
5. Future work flexibility: Although it does not initially allow you to work, there is the option to switch to a work permit in the future if your plans change and you decide to seek employment or start a business in Spain.
Documents required for a non-lucrative visa in Spain
To apply for this visa, you will need to gather a number of documents. It is crucial that they are all up to date and, in many cases, apostilled and translated into Spanish. The main documents include:
1. Valid passport: Must be valid for at least one year and have at least two blank pages.
2. Visa application form: Completely filled in and signed.
3. Recent passport photos: Must meet required standards.
4. Proof of financial means: This is a crucial point. You will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself in Spain without working. This can include bank statements, investment declarations, proof of pensions, etc.
5. Marriage certificate: If your spouse accompanies you, you will need to present an apostilled and translated marriage certificate.
6. Medical certificate: This must be issued by a recognised doctor, stating that you do not suffer from diseases that could pose a risk to public health.
7. Clean criminal record: You will need a criminal record certificate from the countries where you have resided in the last 5 years.
8. Medical insurance: You must have private health insurance to cover your stay in Spain.
9. Proof of accommodation: Although not always necessary, it may be useful to show where you plan to live in Spain.
Who can apply for a non-lucrative visa in Spain?
This visa is designed for different profiles of people seeking to live in Spain and who obtain income from other countries, either through business profits, investments or pensions. It is ideal for retirees who wish to enjoy their retirement in a country with a relatively low cost of living and a very good quality of life, as well as for people with a passive income who can afford to live without working.
It is important to note that, although some remote workers have used this visa in the past, the Spanish government has recently introduced the Digital Nomad Visa, which is more suitable for those who plan to work remotely while living in Spain. If this is your case, we recommend exploring this option.
Step-by-step process to apply for your Non-Lucrative Visa
1. Prepare your documents: Gather all the necessary documents. It is highly recommended to have the help of an immigration lawyer to make sure everything is in order.
2. Pay the visa fee: Fees may vary depending on your nationality and the consulate where you apply.
3. Submit your application: Your lawyer will help you submit your application at the appropriate Spanish consulate or immigration office.
4. Attend the visa interview: You may be called for an interview. Be prepared to explain your reasons for moving to Spain and demonstrate your financial solvency.
5. Wait for the decision: Processing time can vary, but is usually around 3 months.
6. Receive your visa and TIE: Once approved, you will receive your visa. Once in Spain, you will need to apply for your Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE).
Financial requirements for the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain.
The financial requirements established for the non-lucrative visa are in accordance with the IPREM and are updated every year. For 2024, the amounts established are:
Main applicant: €2,400 per month (€28,800 per year).
- For each additional family member: €600 per month (€7,200 per year).
It is important to note that these amounts are indicative and may be subject to change. In addition, the Spanish authorities will assess your financial situation as a whole, not just these minimum amounts.
Renewal and initial residence with the Non-Lucrative Visa.
As with any other visa, you need to renew your residency before it expires. You will need to be aware of the time limits so that you do not run into legal problems.
- Initial residence: The visa grants you initial residence for 1 year.
- First renewal: Upon renewal, you get 2 additional years of residence.
- Second renewal: 2 more years.
- Permanent residence: After 5 years of continuous residence, you can apply for permanent residence.
It is crucial that you start the renewal process at least 60 days before your current visa expires to avoid complications.
Specialised immigration lawyers for Non-Lucrative Visa.
Navigating the non-lucrative visa application process can be complex, especially if you are not familiar with the Spanish legal system. Having an immigration lawyer can make the difference between a successful application and a refusal.
Our team of experienced immigration lawyers is here to help you every step of the way:
- Initial evaluation of your case.
- Preparation and review of all necessary documentation
- Filing the application on your behalf.
- Follow-up of the process with the Spanish authorities.
- Assistance in preparing for the visa interview.
- Support in the process of obtaining the TIE once in Spain.
- Ongoing advice during your stay in Spain.
Contact us today for an initial consultation. Our lawyers are ready to guide you through every stage of the process and help you realise your dream of living in Spain.