Non-Lucrative Residence Visa in Spain: Your Gateway to Living in Spain

• Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

  • The non-lucrative visa is a stepping stone for individuals who wish to establish long-term residence in Spain. After 5 years of continuous residence under this visa, you can apply for Permanent Residency, allowing you to enjoy almost all the rights of a Spanish citizen, including access to benefits, work opportunities, and more.

  • After 10 years, you become eligible to apply for Spanish Citizenship, provided you meet legal requirements such as integration into Spanish society and proof of good character.

• Access to Public Healthcare

  • Spain’s public healthcare system is one of the best in the world, offering comprehensive medical services. As a non-lucrative visa holder, you can gain access to this system by registering as a resident and paying any applicable fees.

• Family Reunification

  • You can include your immediate family members (spouse/partner and dependent children) under this visa, enabling them to enjoy the same benefits as you.

• Freedom to Travel Within the Schengen Area

  • The visa allows you to travel freely within the 26 Schengen countries, making it easy to explore Europe while residing in Spain.

• Living in a High-Quality Environment

  • Spain offers a relaxed lifestyle, a warm climate, rich culture, and excellent infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for individuals seeking a better quality of life.

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Eligibility Requirements

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To apply for the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa, you must meet specific requirements:

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1. Sufficient Financial Means

   • You must demonstrate that you have enough financial resources to support yourself and your family members without working in Spain.

   • Minimum income requirements (2024):

     • Main applicant: €2,400/month

     • Additional family member: €600/month per person

2. Health Insurance

   • Obtain private health insurance from a Spanish provider that offers comprehensive coverage equivalent to public healthcare.

3. Clean Criminal Record

   • Provide a police clearance certificate from your home country and any other countries you’ve resided in for the past five years.

4. Medical Certificate

   • Submit a doctor’s note confirming you are free of diseases that could pose a public health risk, as defined by international health regulations.

5. No Work or Professional Activity

   • The visa does not allow you to engage in employment or conduct business activities in Spain.

 

Required Documents

When applying for the non-lucrative visa, you will need to submit the following documents:

1. Visa Application Form (EX-01)

2. Valid Passport

   • Must be valid for at least 1 year and have at least 2 blank pages.

3. Passport-Sized Photos

   • Recent photographs that meet Spanish visa requirements.

4. Proof of Financial Means

   • Bank statements, investment certificates, pension slips, or other documents proving sufficient funds.

5. Private Health Insurance Policy

   • Proof of insurance from a Spanish provider.

6. Medical Certificate

   • A letter from your doctor confirming you are free of any serious or contagious diseases.

7. Police Clearance Certificate

   • Showing no criminal record, translated into Spanish and legalized or apostilled.

8. Proof of Accommodation

   • Rental agreement, property ownership, or an invitation letter from a host in Spain.

9. Payment Receipt of Visa Fee

   • Ensure you pay the required visa fee and include the receipt.

10. Sworn Statement

    • Declaring your commitment to not work while residing in Spain.

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Application Process

1. Preparation

   • Gather all required documents. Ensure translations are certified and documents are legalized or apostilled as required.

2. Submit Your Application

   • Apply in person at the Spanish Consulate or Embassy in your home country. You will need to attend an appointment to submit your documents and biometric data.

3. Wait for Approval

   • The decision typically takes 1-3 months. You may be asked to provide additional documentation during this time.

4. Enter Spain

   • Once approved, you will receive a visa valid for 90 days, during which you must enter Spain and complete additional formalities.

5. Apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE)

   • Within 30 days of arrival, apply for the TIE at the local immigration office to finalize your residency.

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Renewal and Long-Term Residency

• The initial visa is valid for 1 year.

• You can renew it for an additional 2 years at a time. During renewal, you must again prove financial means and provide updated documentation.

• After 5 years of continuous residence, you can apply for Permanent Residency.

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Important Considerations

1. No Work Allowed

   • The visa is strictly for individuals who can support themselves financially without working. However, after the first year, you may apply for a modification to a work visa if you wish to take up employment or start a business.

2. Tax Implications

   • Spending more than 183 days per year in Spain may make you a tax resident, requiring you to declare your worldwide income. Consult a tax advisor to understand your obligations.

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The Non-Lucrative Residence Visa is an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful, high-quality life in Spain without the need to work. It’s perfect for retirees, self-sufficient individuals, or those looking to establish long-term roots in Spain. Whether you're drawn by the promise of permanent residency, access to world-class healthcare, or the vibrant Spanish lifestyle, this visa opens the door to an enriching European experience.​​​​​​​​​​​

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