​Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa: A New Pathway for International Living in a Post–Golden Visa Era

​

As Spain officially closed the chapter on its popular Golden Visa program on April 3, 2025, many prospective residents—especially those from non-EU countries—are now looking for alternative legal pathways to enjoy life under the Iberian sun. Among the most viable and elegant solutions is the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV), an option ideally suited for retirees, remote wealth holders, and individuals seeking a serene lifestyle in Spain without engaging in local employment.

​

What is the Non-Lucrative Visa?

The Non-Lucrative Visa is a type of Spanish residence permit designed for non-EU citizens who wish to reside in Spain for more than 90 days without working or conducting professional activities within Spain. Though you cannot be employed by a Spanish entity, you may have income from foreign sources such as pensions, investments, or business activities abroad. It is essentially the "quiet luxury" of visa options—simple, dignified, and focused on quality of life.

​

Who is it For?

• Retirees with stable pension income

• Entrepreneurs and business owners with international income streams

• Remote workers (depending on interpretation—some consulates now advise the Digital Nomad Visa instead)

• High-net-worth individuals seeking residency without the need to invest in real estate

 

Key Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

​

1. Financial Means

You must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support yourself (and any dependents) for the duration of your stay without working in Spain.

• Main applicant: €2,400 per month (approximately €28,800/year)

• Each dependent: Additional €600/month (~€7,200/year)

Proof can come from:

• Bank statements (last 6–12 months)

• Pension statements

• Investment income

• Rental income from abroad

Note: Some Spanish consulates may require funds to be deposited in a Spanish bank account.

 

2. Private Health Insurance

A policy with full coverage from a Spanish insurer is required. The insurance must:

• Be valid for the entire first year

• Offer no co-payments (“sin copago”)

• Include hospitalization and general medicine

 

3. Clean Criminal Record

Applicants must provide:

• A police clearance certificate from their country of residence (and other countries where they lived in the last 5 years)

• Apostille and Spanish translation are typically required

 

4. Medical Certificate

A doctor's note confirming you do not suffer from any contagious diseases, formatted according to international standards and translated into Spanish.

 

5. Accommodation

Proof of long-term accommodation in Spain—this can be:

• A property deed (escritura)

• A long-term rental contract

Application Process

Step 1: Apply from Your Home Country

Applications must be submitted in person at your nearest Spanish consulate.

 

Step 2: Submit All Documentation

Your paperwork should be complete, translated by a sworn translator (traductor jurado), and properly apostilled.

 

Step 3: Wait for Approval

Processing time varies by consulate but is typically between 4 to 8 weeks.

 

Step 4: Travel to Spain & Get Your TIE

Once approved, you have 1 month to enter Spain. After arrival, you'll need to:

• Register your address (empadronamiento)

• Apply for your residence card (TIE – Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero)

 

How Long is it Valid?

• Initial permit: 1 year

• First renewal: 2 years

• Second renewal: 2 years

• After 5 years: You may apply for permanent residency

• After 10 years: You may apply for Spanish citizenship, depending on your origin

 

Can You Buy Property With a Non-Lucrative Visa?

Absolutely. While the NLV does not require real estate investment (unlike the former Golden Visa), many applicants choose to purchase a home in Spain to solidify their lifestyle commitment and provide the required proof of accommodation.

At Amazing Real Estate, we’ve guided numerous international clients—especially from Canada, the U.S., and the U.K.—through the process of acquiring a dream home or investment property as part of their long-term move to Spain.

 

Important Considerations

• Tax Residency: After 183 days in Spain, you may be considered a tax resident, which could impact your global income. It’s wise to consult a tax advisor.

• Work Restrictions: You cannot be employed in Spain, though you can manage your own assets, receive dividends, and own businesses (as a shareholder).

• Education: Dependents can enroll in Spanish schools.

 

Is This Right for You?

If your goal is to embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle, enjoy Spain’s cultural richness, and establish a base in Europe without the pressure to invest or work, the Non-Lucrative Visa offers a refined, sustainable, and legally sound way to reside in Spain.

We are here to help you every step of the way—from choosing the perfect residence to connecting you with visa specialists and trusted legal professionals. Your new life in Spain awaits, and it's more accessible than you might think.

Would you like to schedule a private consultation to explore visa-compatible properties?
Contact us via sales@amazing-realestate.com