Spain Non-Lucrative Visa
Madrid Immigration Lawyers
If you are looking to live in Spain for an extended period of time without working, a Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV), also commonly referred to as a non-working visa, may be the perfect solution. This guide, updated in September 2026, provides a comprehensive overview of the requirements and qualifications necessary to apply for and obtain a Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa.
What is the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa?
The Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV), also commonly referred to as a non-working visa, is a residence permit that allows non-EU, non-EEA and non-Swiss citizens to live in Spain without working or carrying out any professional or gainful activity.
The Non-Lucrative Visa is also sometimes informally referred to as a “wealth visa” or “retirement visa” because it is commonly used by people who have sufficient financial means to live in Spain without working.
What are the main requirements to apply for the non-lucrative visa?
The main requirements that you need to comply with to obtain the non-lucrative visa are the following:
- Proof of financial means: Approximately EUR 28,800 for the main applicant, and EUR 7,200 for any other family members.
- Private health insurance: Such health insurance must be with no co-pay (or deductible) and contracted with an insurance entity authorized to operate in Spain.
- No criminal record
Which family members of the main applicant can also obtain the Non-Lucrative Visa?
- The spouse or unmarried partner of the main applicant.
- Unmarried children under 18 years old of the main applicant or of their spouse or partner.
- Children aged 18 or over of the main applicant or of their spouse or partner who have a disability requiring support or who are objectively unable to provide for their own needs due to their health.
What are the benefits of the Spanish non-lucrative visa?
- Right to reside, and/or study in any Spanish city. This also applies to the main applicant’s family members.
- Free movement through all twenty-nine (29) countries of the Schengen territory.
- Fast application process: between 1 and 3 months.
- Possibility to change the residence permit after the first year for a work and residence permit.
- While you reside in Spain you can make investments, for example, acquire a real estate property, a car, stocks, etc.
- Applicants coming from Ibero-American countries (all those whose official language is Spanish or Portuguese), the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or Andorra, can obtain Spanish citizenship after two years of holding a non-lucrative permit and residing continuously in Spain.
What is the procedure to apply for the Non-Lucrative Visa?
The application must be processed before the General Consulate of Spain in the applicant’s country of residence. The applicant must file the application in person.
The resolution period is from 1 to 3 months.
If the non-lucrative visa is approved, the applicant must collect the visa from the General Consulate within one month, counted from the notification date.
Once the non-lucrative visa has been collected, the applicant must enter the Spanish territory within the validity period of the visa (90 days maximum).
Within 30 days from entering Spain, the applicant must apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (“T.I.E.” by its acronym in Spanish) at a Police Station.
What is the initial term of the non-lucrative visa?
The initial term of the non-lucrative visa is of one year, counted from the date the applicant enters Spain.
What is the renewal period of the non-lucrative visa?
The first renewal of the non-lucrative visa will be for two years. The second renewal will also be for two years. After five years residing in Spain, it is possible to obtain the permanent residence permit, (renewable every five years).
What is the process to renew the non-lucrative visa? When is it possible to start the renewal process?
The renewal process is carried out in Spain. The renewal application and supporting documents are filed by telematic means.
The renewal process can be started within 60 days prior to the expiration of the Foreigner Identity Card (“T.I.E.” by its acronym in Spanish), and 90 days after the expiration date of said T.I.E.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa
Do I need to have the required funds in a Spanish bank account to apply for a Non-Lucrative Visa?
The required funds may be held in one or more bank accounts, and the accounts do not need to be held with a Spanish bank. However, the bank accounts must be held in the applicant’s name, and the applicant must demonstrate sufficient funds to meet the financial requirements for the Non-Lucrative Visa.
Is it necessary to convert the funds into euros?
No. The funds do not need to be converted into euros. However, they must be held in a currency that can be converted into euros, and their equivalent value in euros must be sufficient to meet the financial requirements for the Non-Lucrative Visa.
Which amount do I need to renew the non-lucrative visa?
Considering that the renewal is for 2 years, the applicant must prove double the amount that served as basis to obtain the initial residence permit, that is, approximately EUR 57,600 for the main applicant, and EUR 14,400 for each additional family member.
May I travel abroad while holding a Non-Lucrative Visa?
Yes. You may travel abroad during the initial one-year term of your Non-Lucrative Visa. However, if you intend to renew your residence permit, you should reside in Spain for at least six months during that initial one-year period.
For travel purposes, how should I count the one-year term?
For these purposes, the one-year period is counted from the date of entry into Spain.
Is it possible to change the Non-Lucrative Visa to a work permit?
Yes. A Non-Lucrative Visa can be changed to a residence and work permit in Spain, either to work as an employee or to become self-employed, provided that the applicable requirements are met. The requirements may differ depending on how long the applicant has been legally residing in Spain.