Are you considering applying for the Non-Lucrative Visa Spain in 2025? This long-stay residency option is ideal for non-EU citizens who want to live in Spain without working. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the latest requirements, the application process, and how our expert support can help you get your visa approved — smoothly and stress-free.
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Introduction
If you’re a non-EU citizen dreaming of living in Spain without the pressure of work or business activity, the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) may be your best option. Ideal for retirees, early retirees, or those with passive income, this visa allows you to reside legally in Spain while enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Although the application must start in your home country, you don’t have to manage the process alone. Our immigration lawyer, can guide you through every step — from document preparation to residence card issuance after you arrive.
What Is the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)?
The Non-Lucrative Residence Visa is a type of long-stay visa that allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain for more than 90 days without engaging in any work or professional activity.
It is commonly chosen by:
Retirees and early retirees
Passive income earners (e.g. from rental properties, dividends, pensions)
Families seeking a lifestyle change in Spain
The NLV is issued for one year initially, with the possibility of renewal and eventual long-term residency.
Check the different available visas for Spain in this article.
Key Advantages of the NLV
Live in Spain legally without the need to work
Freedom to travel within the Schengen Area
Bring your spouse and children under one application
Path to permanent residency and Spanish citizenship if you stay long enough
It’s a particularly popular route for Americans, British nationals, and Canadians seeking a safe, sunny, and culturally rich place to call home.
Financial Requirements for 2025
To qualify for Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa, you must prove that you can support yourself (and your dependents, if applicable) without working.
The Spanish government sets financial minimums based on the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples). In 2025, the estimated monthly minimums are:
Individual applicant: €2,400–€2,500/month
Each additional family member: ~€600/month
These amounts must usually be shown as available funds in a bank account, or as regular passive income (such as pensions, rental income, or dividends).
✅ Our expert advice: While these are the official figures, in practice, consulates sometimes expect higher amounts — especially in busy urban consulates or for family applications. Our legal team will work closely with you to determine the most strategic amount to declare based on your profile and the specific consulate’s trends, to maximize your chances of approval.
✅ Accepted income sources:
Pension payments
Rental property income
Dividends
Interest from savings
Investment portfolios
Long-term savings accounts
💡 Not sure if your income qualifies? We can pre-assess your documentation and help you structure the paperwork to meet the Spanish consulate’s standards.
Who Is Eligible?
To apply for the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa in 2025, applicants must:
Be a non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss citizen.
Be over 18 years of age.
Show no criminal record in the past 5 years.
Prove sufficient financial means.
Obtain private health insurance valid in Spain.
How to Apply for the NLV
a. Start the Application in Your Home Country
Applications for the Non-Lucrative Visa must be submitted to the Spanish consulate in your country of legal residence. Each consulate may have slightly different requirements or processing times, so it’s essential to follow the exact checklist.
🧩 Don’t worry: We coordinate the process directly from Spain, working with an experienced immigration lawyer to prepare, check, and submit your documents properly — so your application is solid before reaching the consulate.
b. Required Documents for the NLV
Valid passport
Visa application form(s)
Proof of sufficient income
Clean criminal background check
Private Spanish health insurance
Medical certificate
Translations and apostilles (as needed)
✅ We help collect, translate, and verify your documentation before submission, and continue supporting you through the entire process until your visa is approved.
After You Arrive in Spain: Getting Your Residence Card
Once your Non-Lucrative Visa is approved and you arrive in Spain, you’ll need to complete local formalities to become a resident:
Empadronamiento (town hall registration)
TIE (residence card) application
Fingerprints and biometric appointment
Our team will be by your side to schedule appointments, prepare forms, and make sure nothing is missed — all while helping you settle into your new home.
Renewing the NLV and Long-Term Residency Options
The NLV is initially valid for 1 year. You can then renew it for 2 years, and again for another 2 years. After 5 years of legal residence in Spain, you may apply for long-term residency.
🔄 Renewal tip: You must continue to meet the financial criteria, and remain within Spain for a minimum number of days per year (usually 183+).
You may also explore future options like family reunification or even transitioning to a work permit or other visa — depending on how your plans evolve.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Applying for the NLV can be straightforward with the right support — but small errors can lead to delays or rejection. Common pitfalls include:
Providing insufficient or unclear financial documents
Missing required translations or apostilles
Submitting outdated criminal record certificates
👉 Avoid these costly mistakes by working with a relocation partner who knows the process inside and out — and can work directly with Spanish legal experts.
When the NLV Isn’t the Best Fit: Consider the Digital Nomad Visa
If you don’t meet the NLV’s passive income requirement — or plan to continue working remotely while living in Spain — the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) might be a better option.
The DNV allows non-EU remote workers and freelancers to live and work legally from Spain, and has different financial thresholds and work-related eligibility.
🔗 Read our full guide to the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa → here
How Our Local Experts Can Help You Get the NLV
Relocating to a new country can be overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. We provide complete support to help you get the Non-Lucrative Visa, from document preparation and legal submission abroad to housing search and residency support in Spain.
✅ Application prepared and submitted with our trusted immigration lawyer
✅ Personalized relocation support (housing, appointments, translations)
✅ We stay involved until your residence card is in your hands
💬 Book a free consultation to find out how we can help make your move to Barcelona smooth and successful.
Conclusion
The Non-Lucrative Visa remains one of the most accessible and attractive options for non-EU citizens looking to relocate to Spain in 2025. Whether you’re retired, semi-retired, or living off passive income, this visa opens the door to a new chapter of life in the heart of Europe.
And remember — you don’t have to do it alone. Our relocation experts and legal partners are here to simplify every step, from abroad to your arrival in Spain.
FAQs: Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) in 2025
Can I work remotely or freelance in Spain with the Non-Lucrative Visa?
No. The NLV does not permit any work or professional activity, including remote work or freelancing, even for clients outside Spain. If you plan to work while living in Spain, consider applying for the Digital Nomad Visa instead.
How much money do I need to qualify for the Non-Lucrative Visa in 2025?
The estimated minimum is around €2,400–€2,500/month for a single applicant, plus approximately €600/month for each additional family member. These amounts must be proven through passive income or bank savings. Some consulates may require more — we help you determine the safest amount to declare.
What documents are required to apply for the Non-Lucrative Visa?
You’ll need a valid passport, visa application form, financial proof, private health insurance, clean criminal record, medical certificate, and certified translations or apostilles where needed. Our legal team ensures everything is correct and complete before submission.
Do I have to apply from my home country, or can I apply while in Spain?
You must apply from your country of legal residence. Spain does not allow NLV applications from within the country. We coordinate the process remotely to help you apply confidently and avoid delays.
How long does the NLV process take from start to finish?
Processing times vary by consulate but can range from 4 to 12 weeks. The earlier you prepare, the better — we advise starting at least 3 months in advance of your desired move date.
Can I bring my spouse or children with the NLV?
Yes. The NLV allows you to include your spouse and dependent children in the same application. You’ll need to prove additional income or savings to cover them.
What happens after I arrive in Spain with the NLV?
You’ll need to complete local steps like empadronamiento (town hall registration), get your residence card (TIE), and attend a biometric appointment. We’ll guide you through every step until your residency is fully in place.
