Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa: How to Apply (Updated for 2025)

If you're dreaming of a slower pace of life, sun-soaked afternoons, and a chance to immerse yourself in one of Europe’s most vibrant cultures, then Spain might just be calling your name. The Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) offers the perfect opportunity for non-EU citizens to relocate to Spain for an extended stay without engaging in work or business activities. Whether you're planning to retire, pursue personal projects, or simply take a break from the daily hustle, this visa could be your gateway to a new life.

This guide will walk you through the four steps to obtaining the Non-Lucrative Visa, from eligibility and required documents to the application process and tips for success.

What is the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa?

Before we jump into the steps, let's clarify what this visa is all about. The Non-Lucrative Visa is a long-term residency designed for individuals who can financially support themselves without working in Spain. It’s ideal for retirees, remote learners, or people seeking a temporary escape from their home country.

With this visa, you can stay in Spain for up to one year, and it’s renewable for two additional two-year periods. This allows you five years of residency—the essential requirement for those planning to apply for permanent residency in Spain.

One caveat, though: because it’s "non-lucrative," this visa strictly prohibits employment or professional activities in Spain.

Step 1: Figure out if you meet the requirements

Before proceeding, take a moment to ensure you meet the necessary criteria.

Can you tick all of the boxes below?

Financial Resources For 2025

Note that in order to renew after the first year, in most areas you'll have to show double the amount of savings (as the renewal will be for 2 years). 

Absence of a Criminal Record

No Work or Economic Activity

The NLV is designed for individuals who can financially support themselves without the need to work while residing in Spain. However, the question of whether NLV holders can work while outside Spain remains a gray area. Some consulates, like Edinburgh, take a more flexible approach—allowing applications from oil rig workers. Others, however, adopt a stricter interpretation of the law and will require clear proof that you have no intention of working at all.

To prove to a Spanish consulate that you are no longer working, you would typically need to provide documentation that demonstrates your financial independence and lack of employment. Here are some common ways to do this:

1. Resignation Letter or Termination Proof: Provide an official letter from your previous employer confirming the end of your employment, including the date of termination.
2. Pension or Retirement Documents: If you are retired, provide proof of pension income or retirement savings.
3. Affidavit or Declaration: Some consulates will accept a signed affidavit stating that you are not employed and do not intend to work while residing in Spain.
4. Tax Returns: Submit recent tax returns showing no employment income, if applicable.

Each consulate may have slightly different requirements, so it’s always a good idea to check with the specific consulate where you’re applying. 

Step 2: Collect The Required Documents

Once you're confident you meet the criteria, it’s time to gather the paperwork. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll likely need:

a) Criminal Record Certificate

Apply for a Criminal Record Certificate from the country or countries where you have been living for the past 5 years (link to UK form, link to US form). If this document isn't in Spanish, it will need to be translated by an official translator, and if from a country outside of the EU, it will need to be legalised (link for UK, link for US). 

b) Medical Certificate

You'll need a medical certificate confirming you don't have any diseases that could pose a public health risk, according to the 2005 International Health Regulations. The certificate should be issued by a licensed medical professional within three months of your visa application. We can help with this - fill out this form here. 

c) Private Health Insurance 

Private health insurance from a Spanish or international provider with full coverage is required, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and prescriptions, without co-payments or deductibles. The policy must be valid throughout Spain for the entire visa duration (i.e. one year) and meet coverage standards comparable to Spain's public healthcare system. Additionally, the insurance provider must issue a certificate in Spanish confirming compliance with these requirements. Our recommended health insurance provider is Innoinsure. 

d) Proof of Financial Means (Updated: May 2025)

Applicants can include a wide range of passive income sources, such as dividends, rental income, pensions, and savings, to meet the financial requirements. 

If savings are to be used, you must present statements for an entire calendar year which show that the average balance and balance at the year end is above the income limit for the main dependent and family members. 

e) Other Paperwork

Step 4: Apply at the Spanish Consulate

Applications for the Non-Lucrative Visa must be submitted in person at your local Spanish consulate. Since each consulate operates a bit differently, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment well in advance and check their specific requirements. Here are the key steps:

1. Schedule an Appointment – Most consulates have an online system for booking. Don’t procrastinate; slots fill up quickly.
2. Attend the Interview – Be prepared to discuss your plans, finances, and purpose for staying in Spain.
3. Pay the Visa Fee – Fees vary depending on your nationality, but can be up to €600 per person. 
4. Wait for a Decision – Processing times can take up to 2 months, so plan accordingly.

If approved, your visa will be attached to your passport, allowing you to travel to Spain. Upon arrival, you’ll need to apply for a TIE card (Foreigner’s Identity Card) to make your residency official.

Step 4: Settle into Your New Life in Spain

Congratulations! With your visa approved, the true adventure begins. Here are a few steps to help you settle smoothly:

• Register Your Address – Visit the local town hall (Ayuntamiento) to get your empadronamiento, an essential document for many administrative tasks in Spain.
• Obtain Your TIE Card – Head to the nearest police station for fingerprinting and to collect your residency card.
• Open a Spanish Bank Account – This will make managing your finances easier.
• Explore Your Surroundings – Take time to discover your local neighborhood, connect with the community, and enjoy Spanish culture.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Start early. Some documents, like police clearance and medical certificates, have short validity periods.
• Double-check your consulate’s requirements. They can vary slightly depending on your location.
• Be patient and organized. Keep extra copies of every document, and ensure translations are accurate.

The Benefits of Living in Spain

Spain offers an unbeatable quality of life. From its world-class cuisine and historic cities to its mild climate and affordable healthcare, this country has it all. You'll find yourself immersed in a culture that values family, leisure, and enjoying life to the fullest.

Whether you're savoring tapas in Barcelona, strolling through Andalusian villages, or catching a flamenco show in Seville, living in Spain is bound to be an enriching experience. The Non-Lucrative Visa could be your golden ticket to this incredible lifestyle.

Start the process today, and who knows? By this time next year, you could be calling Spain your new home!

Apply for the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa with Move To Spain Guide!

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