Retire to Spain is an aspiration for many, promising a life of warm weather, rich culture, and relaxed living. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the process, combining practical steps with insights into the Spanish Golden Visa and Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa.
Understanding Residency Status and Visa Options
The First Step: Checking Your Eligibility
Before you start packing, it’s essential to understand your residency status.
- EU/EEA citizens have the right to live in Spain but still need to register locally.
- Non-EU citizens (third-country nationals) must apply for a visa, such as the Non-Lucrative Visa, to reside legally in Spain.
Your citizenship will determine the process you follow — so start here before anything else.
The Spanish Golden Visa: A Closed Chapter
The Spanish Golden Visa program, which allowed residency through investment, officially ended on April 3rd, 2025.
Before its closure, it offered benefits such as:
- Free movement within the Schengen area
- Family inclusion
- No minimum stay requirement
- A path to citizenship
Eligibility previously included significant investment in real estate or securities and proof of financial self-sufficiency. While no longer available, many other attractive pathways remain for retirees.
The Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa: Ideal for Retirees
The Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) is now the primary option for retirees who can support themselves financially without working in Spain.
To qualify, applicants must show:
- Proof of sufficient passive income or savings
- Valid private health insurance
- A clean criminal record
This visa is perfect for retirees living on pensions, investments, or other non-employment income sources.
Financial Requirements for Residency
Spain sets clear minimum income requirements for residency, which vary annually. You’ll need to show consistent financial means to cover living expenses without working. Keep in mind that the cost of living differs significantly between regions — cities like Madrid and Barcelona are more expensive than smaller coastal or inland towns.
Healthcare Considerations
Healthcare is a critical factor. Arrange healthcare as part of your residency application and research the requirements and options in Spain.
Planning Your Timeline
Moving to Spain is an exciting journey—but it can feel overwhelming without a clear plan. That’s why Spainguru created the Move to Spain Checklist, a step-by-step roadmap trusted by thousands of expats. It breaks down everything you need to do before, during, and after your move—from visa applications and housing to healthcare and paperwork—so you can stay organized and stress-free.
A well-thought-out timeline is essential. Think about factors like selling your home, family commitments, and your target arrival date. With a flexible yet structured plan, you can coordinate each stage of your relocation smoothly.
Start by exploring the full Move to Spain Checklist here: Move to Spain Checklist
Want expert guidance? Watch our popular webinar, How to Move to Spain: From Vision to Reality — where our experts walk you through timelines, common mistakes, budgeting tips, and everything you need to know to make your move successful.
Choosing a Place to Live in Spain
Spain offers an incredible variety of lifestyles—from bustling cities and sun-soaked coasts to peaceful mountain villages. Choosing the right destination is one of the most exciting (and important) parts of your move.
Before making your decision, consider taking discovery trips to different regions at various times of the year. Experiencing the climate, culture, and daily rhythm firsthand will help you understand what feels like home.
To make this step easier, explore Spainguru’s Spain Destinations Guide — a comprehensive resource that helps you compare regions based on lifestyle, cost of living, community, climate, and amenities. Whether you’re planning to retire, work remotely, or relocate with your family, you’ll find clear overviews of Spain’s most popular areas, from Madrid and Barcelona to Málaga, Valencia, and the Canary Islands.
📍 Start your search here: Spain Destinations
Assessing the Support Network
Consider the support network in your chosen area. Do you prefer an expat community, or are you looking to immerse yourself in local Spanish culture? Check for local amenities and community groups that can offer support.
Financial Planning for Living Costs
Understand the cost of living in your chosen area. It’s often recommended to double your estimated expenses for the first year to account for unforeseen costs.
Renting vs. Buying
Decide whether you want to rent or buy a property. Each option has its pros and cons, and it’s crucial to consider the property market’s fluidity in your chosen area.
Starting a New Life in Spain
Embracing the Language
Learning Spanish is beneficial, but don’t stress about achieving perfection. Embrace the learning process and enjoy the cultural immersion.
Fiscal Setup
Once in Spain, ensure you are fiscally set up correctly. This includes understanding tax implications and managing your finances efficiently. Spainguru can put you in contact with expert tax advisors.
Protecting Your Family
Consider setting up a Spanish will and a funeral plan. These are crucial for protecting your family and ensuring your affairs are in order.
Future Proofing
Think about your long-term needs. As you age, your requirements may change. Choose a location and a living situation that can accommodate future changes, like health care accessibility and living arrangements that are suitable for reduced mobility. For example, small Spanish towns have limited accesibility to healthcare services.
Tax Considerations for Retirees in Spain
If you live in Spain for more than 183 days a year, you become a tax resident and are liable to pay taxes on your worldwide income. There are various tax deductions and allowances based on age and family situation.
Choosing Between the Spanish Golden Visa and Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa
The Golden Visa requires a significant investment but offers more flexibility, including the ability to work and a faster application process. The Non-Lucrative Visa, while more accessible financially, requires proof of sufficient funds and does not permit employment in Spain.
Conclusion
Retiring to Spain requires thorough planning and consideration of various factors, including residency, healthcare, financial planning, and lifestyle choices. By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new life in Spain, embracing its culture and comforts while being prepared for the future. Remember, retiring to Spain is not just a change of location, but a new chapter in life filled with exciting possibilities. For personalized assistance, consulting with immigration experts is a wise decision.
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