Enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle through financial self-sufficiency.
Spain´s sunny climate and high quality of life make it an attractive destination for those seeking to relocate without the need to work. The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV), also known as the Residencia No Lucrativa, offers non-EU citizens the oportunity to reside in Spain on a long-term basis, provided they can demonstrate financial self-sufficiency. This visa is particularly popular among retirees, individuals with passive income, and those wishing to enjoy Spain´s Mediterranean lifestyle without engaging in employment.
What is the Non-Lucrative Visa?
The NLV is a residence visa that permits non-EU/EEA nationals to live in Spain without undertaking any paid work or professional activities. It is designed for individuals who can support themselves financially through savings, pensions, investments, or other passive income sources. This visa does not authorise work, but it can be a stepping stone to other residency options after the initial period.
Family members, including spouses, registered partners, minor children, and dependent adult children, can apply alongside the main applicant. The visa initially grants residency for one year, with possibilities for renewal (1+2+2).
Eligibility Requirements.
To qualify for the NLV, applicants must meet several criteria set by the Spanish Minisitry of Foreign Affairs.
These include:
- Nationality: The visa is available to citizens from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
- Age: There is no minimum age, but applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply independentlty.
- No Prior Irregular Stay: Applicants should not have stayed irregularly in Spain previously.
- Clean Record: No criminal convictions in the past five years, and not listed in any territory where Spain has agreements prohibiting entry.
- Health: Not suffering from any diseases that could pose a public health risk, as defined by international health regulations.
Financial Requirements for 2026.
The cornerstone of the NLV application is demonstrating sufficient financial means.
These are calculated based on Spain´s Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator (IPREM), which for 2026 remains at €600 per month or €7,200 anually.
- Main Applicant: Must show funds equivalent to 400% of the anual IPREM, amouting to €28,800 per year (or €2,400 per month).
- Dependents: An additional 100% of the IPREM (€7,200 per year or €600 per month) for each family member. These funds can come from pensions, rental income, dividends, or savings.
Table: Financial Requirement 2026
| Applicant Type | Annual Requirement (€) | Monthly Equivalent (€) |
| Main Applicant | 28,800 | 2,400 |
| Main Applicant + 1 Dependent | 36,000 | 3,000 |
| Main Applicant + 2 Dependent | 43,200 | 3,600 |
Note that some consulates may require funds to be liquid and accessible, and inflation adjustments to the IPREM could occur annually.
Other Required Documents
In addition to financial proof, applicants must submit:
- National Visa Application Form: Completed and signed (Form EX-01).
- Passport: Valid for at least one year, with two blank pages.
- Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos.
- Private Health Insurance: Full coverage in Spain, equivalent to public healthcare, with no co-payments or waiting periods. It must be from an authorised insurer in Spain. Or S1 from your own country if you are retired.
- Criminal Record Certificate: Apostilled or legalised, covering the last five years from countries of residence. ·Medical Certificate: Confirming good health, apostilled if necessary.
- Proof of Accommodation: Rental contract, property deed,…
- Fee Payment: varying by consulate.All non-Spanish documents must be translated by a sworn translator and apostilled under the Hague Convention if applicable.
The Non-Lucrative Visa offers the opportunity to reside in Spain on a long-term basis, allowing you to enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle through financial self- sufficiency.
