Apply for the Non-Lucrative Visa
The Non-Lucrative Visa is for people with passive income (pensions, investments, savings) who do not intend to work in Spain. It is the most common route for retirees and financially independent movers.
Official sources
The steps
- 1
Verify income requirements
You must demonstrate sufficient passive income to support yourself and any family members without working in Spain. The minimum is typically 400% of the Spanish IPREM (around €2,400/month in 2024 for a single applicant). Income must be passive: pensions, rental income, dividends, or savings.
You cannot do any type of paid work in Spain on a Non-Lucrative Visa. If you work remotely for foreign clients, the Digital Nomad Visa is the correct route. - 2
Gather required documents
Documents are similar to the DNV but focused on passive income proof. All foreign documents need apostille and official Spanish translation.
Documents needed
- Valid passport
- Visa application form
- Proof of passive income (last 3 months of bank statements, pension letters, dividend statements)
- Proof that income is sufficient (usually a 6-month average calculation)
- Criminal record certificate (apostilled, less than 3 months old)
- Private health insurance valid in Spain (not travel insurance)
- Proof of accommodation in Spain
- Proof of economic ties to home country (optional but helpful)
- 3
Book and attend consulate appointment
Same process as the DNV: book at your nearest Spanish consulate well in advance. Bring originals and copies.
- 4
Renew annually in Spain
Unlike the DNV (which grants a 3-year TIE), the NLV must be renewed annually for the first two years, then every two years. Renewal applications go to the Extranjería office, not the consulate.
Renewals require demonstrating continued income sufficiency. Budget for this ongoing requirement.