Spain Non Lucrative Visa

The non-lucrative residence permit is a Spanish visa for non-EU citizens who can support themselves financially without working in Spain. It allows you to live in Spain for up to 5 years, with the possibility of permanent residency thereafter.

You’ll need a medical certificate stating your good health. This can be obtained from a doctor in your home country, translated into Spanish by a sworn translator. Alternatively, you can use a service like Spainguru’s to connect with an English-speaking doctor in Spain.

Start by contacting the Spanish consulate in your country to schedule an appointment and submit the required documents. The processing time can vary but may take up to 3 months.

Find your Spanish Consulate in the United States

Find your Spanish Consulate in the United Kingdom

If your application is rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision. Seeking legal advice from an immigration lawyer experienced in such matters is advisable.

You have the option to apply for a residency renewal up to 60 days before your residency permit expires or within 90 days after its expiration. Renewing the non-lucrative visa grants an additional two years of residency. Therefore, you must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to sustain yourself in Spain for the subsequent two-year period during the renewal process.

For more information, read “The non lucrative Spain visa renewal process“

Key requirements include financial stability, a clean criminal record, comprehensive health insurance, and proof of no employment. Specific documentation varies, so it’s essential to consult the consulate’s guidelines.

For more information, read our detailed article Non Lucrative Visa Spain: Requirements 2024

Your health insurance must offer coverage equal to or greater than the Spanish healthcare system. UK nationals with a retirement pension can use their NHS cover with an S1 form, while others must purchase private health insurance.

Yes, you can visit other EU countries for up to 3 months within a 6-month period, following each country’s entry requirements.

Initially, the non-lucrative visa does not permit work. However, after residing in Spain for a year, you may be eligible to convert it into a work permit under certain conditions.

For more information read our article “Is it possible to work remotely on a non lucrative Spain visa?“

Under the Non-Lucrative Visa for Spain, you must not be outside of Spain for more than 6 months in any 1-year period, and not more than a cumulative 10 months during the initial 5-year residency period to maintain your residency status. These requirements are critical if you plan to apply for long-term residency later.

For more information, read “Is it true that we do not need to stay 6 months in order to keep the Non lucrative Spain visa?“