Spain has long been a popular destination for expats, thanks to its optimal climate, affordable cost of living, and rich cultural heritage. If you are a non-EU national who wishes to live in Spain without working, the non-working visa may be your golden ticket to starting a new life in Spain.

In this guide, we explain what means a non-lucrative residence visa, the requirements for obtaining one, how to apply, and the benefits of having one. Besides, we provide a step-by-step guide to help you through the application process.

What is a Non-Lucrative Residence Visa in Spain?

The non-lucrative residence visa enables non-EU nationals to live in Spain without work or paid professional services. So, it is known as a non-working visa.

This kind of visa is for individuals with a reliable source of passive income that supports themselves and their families.

To apply for this visa, you submit the required documents and wait for the authorities to validate the information.

Requirements for Obtaining a Non-working Visa in Spain

It is necessary to possess a reliable passive income to acquire a non-lucrative residence visa in Spain. Also, you will be required to furnish medical insurance and successfully undergo a background check.

Financial Requirements

The Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator (IPREM) is a Spanish social and economic parameter for financial assistance and subsidies based on income levels.

So, to qualify for a non-working visa in Spain, you must show a monthly income equivalent to 400% of the IPREM, which equates to €2,400 per month or €28,800 per year. For this, you can use a pension as proof of financial stability.

Medical Insurance Requirements

It is crucial to furnish documentation of medical insurance that adheres to specific key aspects to acquire a non-lucrative residence visa in Spain.

• The insurance policy must be valid for one year, giving coverage for all visa beneficiaries for risks covered by the Spanish public health system.
• Travel insurance with medical assistance coverage is not accepted.
• The policy should offer a service equivalent to the public system, devoid of exclusions, excesses, or co-payments.
• The minimum required medical coverage stands at €30,000.
• When selecting an insurance policy, it is vital to have experienced professionals since the criteria may vary between Spanish consulates.

Background Check Requirements

This background check ensures that the non-working visa applicant does not have a criminal record or pose any threat to public safety. The main criteria for this background check are the following.

• It is mandatory for all applicants who are 18 years of age or older.
• The process involves submitting a criminal record certificate from the country of origin or any country where they have resided for more than six months in the last five years.
• The certificate should be in Spanish and legalized with an apostille.
• The certificate must be within three months before the application submission.

Step-by-step guide to applying for a Spanish non-lucrative residence visa

To obtain a non-working visa in Spain, you will need to follow the steps outlined below.

1. Arrange an appointment for application at the Spanish embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
2. Apply for a foreigner identification number (NIE) necessary for the visa application.
3. Gather all the necessary documents. That includes a national visa application form, a non-working residence visa application form, a recent passport-size photograph, and a valid passport. And you don’t forget to include evidence demonstrating that you possess sufficient finances.
4. Attend your scheduled visa appointment. Be sure to submit all the required documents and pay the applicable visa fee.
5. Wait for approval. Processing duration may vary depending on the specific consulate or embassy.

Please note that the exact requirements and procedures might differ slightly depending on your country of residence and the specific consulate or embassy you are dealing with.

Therefore, it is advisable to consult the official website or contact the relevant authorities for accurate and up-to-date information.

Benefits of Having a Non-working Visa in Spain

Finally, we list some benefits you will obtain when you acquire your Spanish non-lucrative residence visa.

• Freedom of Entry and Movement within the Schengen Area. This zone comprises 27 European countries, allowing these visa holders to travel without additional visas.
• Family Reunification. Includes spouses or partners, minor or disabled children, economically dependent adult children who are single, and first-degree ascendants (direct line) who are financially dependent.
• Right to Live in Spain. Providing them access to the public services, including healthcare and education.
• Path to Permanent Residence and Spanish Citizenship. After ten years of legal residence in the country, these visa holders can also apply for Spanish citizenship.
• Overall, the non-lucrative residence visa in Spain offers the advantages of easy travel, family reunification, the right to live in a vibrant country, and the potential for long-term settlement and citizenship.