Want to enjoy life in Spain without working? The Non-Lucrative Visa allows non-EU citizens to reside in Spain for extended periods—without needing a job. It’s a popular choice for retirees, early retirees, and individuals with passive income. In this 2025 guide, we explain who qualifies, how to apply, and what to expect.

💡 What Is the Non-Lucrative Visa?

This is a long-stay residence visa designed for those who can support themselves financially without working in Spain. It allows you to live legally in Spain for 1 year initially and can be renewed for multiple years. However, it does not allow you to work locally or remotely during the initial residency.

✅ Who Is It For?

The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa is ideal for:

• Retirees with pensions or savings
• Individuals with passive income (e.g., rental income, dividends)
• Early retirees seeking a peaceful life in Spain

📋 Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, you must:

• Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen
• Prove sufficient financial means (around €30,000/year minimum, more for families)
• Have private health insurance valid in Spain
• Show clean criminal background
• Have a place to live in Spain (rental or property)

📄 Required Documents

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:

• Valid passport (with at least 1 year before expiration)
• Completed visa application form
• Proof of income (bank statements, pension slips, investment returns)
• Health insurance policy
• Medical certificate (declaring you're in good health)
• Criminal background check
• Proof of accommodation in Spain

📝 Application Process

Follow these steps:

1. Apply at the Spanish consulate in your home country
2. Schedule an appointment and submit your documents
3. Wait 4–8 weeks for processing
4. If approved, enter Spain within 90 days and apply for a TIE (residence card)

📅 How Long Can You Stay?

• Initial visa: 1 year
• First renewal: 2 years
• Second renewal: 2 years
• After 5 years: Apply for permanent residency

👨‍👩‍👧 Can You Bring Family?

Yes, family reunification is allowed. You'll need to demonstrate more income—typically an additional 25% for a spouse and 50% per child, based on the IPREM indicator.

🚫 Can You Work?

The Non-Lucrative Visa does not permit employment or self-employment in Spain. That includes remote work for foreign clients. However, after your first renewal, you may request a modification to a work permit if your situation changes.

If you're considering moving to Spain but plan to work remotely, you might be better suited for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa, which allows legal employment for foreign freelancers and remote workers. Discover its benefits and application process.

💬 Tips for a Successful Application

• Submit well-organized and translated documents (into Spanish)
• Apply well in advance—some consulates have long wait times
• Consult with a visa specialist if you’re unsure about requirements

🎯 Final Thoughts

If you have financial independence and want to enjoy the Spanish lifestyle, the Non-Lucrative Visa offers an excellent pathway to long-term residency. With a bit of planning and documentation, you could soon be living stress-free in Spain’s sun-drenched towns or coastal cities.

📽️ Watch This Before Applying

Need a visual walkthrough of the Non-Lucrative Visa process? Here’s a helpful video that explains it step by step: