What Is the Non-Lucrative Visa?
The Visado de Residencia No Lucrativa is Spain's visa for people who want to live in the country without working. You must prove you have sufficient passive income — savings, pension, rental income, dividends — to support yourself without employment in Spain.
It's the most popular visa for retirees moving from the US and UK, and for anyone with passive income streams who doesn't need to work remotely.
Who Is It For?
- Retirees with pension income from the US, UK, or other countries
- People with investment income, dividends, or rental income abroad
- Those with substantial savings who want a simpler lifestyle in Spain
- Non-EU citizens — EU citizens can move freely without a visa
Can I Work on the Non-Lucrative Visa?
No. The NLV explicitly prohibits any form of paid employment or self-employment in Spain. If you work remotely, even for foreign clients, you should apply for the Digital Nomad Visa instead. Violating this condition can lead to deportation and a multi-year ban.
Income Requirements
Spain requires you to demonstrate sufficient monthly income. For 2026, the thresholds are approximately:
| Applicant | Monthly income | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Single applicant | ~€2,400 | ~€28,800 |
| Each additional dependent | +€600 | +€7,200 |
Documents Required
- Completed EX-01 application form
- Valid passport (minimum 1 year remaining)
- 3–6 months of bank statements showing consistent income
- Private health insurance from a Spanish-authorized provider (no co-pays, comprehensive cover)
- Criminal background check (apostilled) from each country lived in the last 5 years
- Medical certificate confirming no contagious disease
- Proof of accommodation in Spain (rental contract or property deed)
- Two passport-sized photos
How to Apply Step by Step
Book a consulate appointment
Apply at the Spanish consulate in your home country — you cannot apply in Spain. Wait times at US consulates vary from 2 weeks to 3 months.
Prepare and apostille documents
Criminal record checks need apostilles. US applicants use the FBI; UK applicants use ACRO. Allow 6–10 weeks.
Submit and wait
Processing takes 1–3 months at most consulates. The initial visa is for 1 year and must be activated within 30 days of arrival in Spain.
Arrive and register
Within 30 days of arrival, register on the Padrón (municipal register) and apply for your NIE and TIE residency card at the local Extranjería.
Renewing the Non-Lucrative Visa
The initial visa is for 1 year. Renewal grants 2 years, then another 2 years. After 5 years of continuous legal residency, you can apply for long-term (permanent) residency. After 10 years, you may be eligible for Spanish citizenship.