Non-Lucrative Residence Visa

The Non-Lucrative Residence Visa offers non-European Union (EU) nationals the opportunity to reside in Spain without engaging in any professional or commercial activities. This visa is particularly suitable for retirees or individuals with sufficient financial means to support themselves independently. Below is a comprehensive guide to the official requirements and necessary documentation for applying for this visa.

Key Requirements

1. Financial Means: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient economic resources to cover living expenses without the need to work in Spain. The minimum required amount is equivalent to 400% of Spain’s Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator (IPREM). As of 2025, this equates to approximately €2,400 per month. An additional 100% of the IPREM (approximately €600 per month) is required for each dependent family member.
2. Health Insurance: Applicants must obtain public or private health insurance from an insurance company authorized to operate in Spain. The policy must provide full coverage equivalent to that offered by the Spanish public health system and must be valid for at least one year without co-payments or deductibles.
3. Absence of Criminal Record: Applicants must provide a criminal record certificate from their country or countries of residence for the past five years, indicating no criminal history. This certificate must be legalized with the Hague Apostille and accompanied by an official translation into Spanish.
4. Medical Certificate: A recent medical certificate issued by a registered medical practitioner is required, confirming that the applicant does not suffer from any diseases that could pose serious public health risks according to the 2005 International Health Regulations. This certificate must also be legalized or apostilled and translated into Spanish.

Required Documentation

When applying for the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa, the following documents must be submitted:

1. National Visa Application Form: A completed and signed application form. Each applicant, including dependents, must submit a separate form.
2. EX-01 Form: The official application for authorization of temporary residence, duly completed and signed.
3. Photograph: One recent passport-sized color photograph with a light background, showing the applicant facing forward without any accessories that obstruct the face.
4. Passport: Original and a photocopy of a valid passport with a minimum validity of one year and at least two blank pages. Passports issued more than ten years ago will not be accepted.
5. Proof of Financial Means: Original and a copy of documents demonstrating sufficient economic means to support the applicant (and dependents, if applicable) during the period of residence. This may include bank statements, proof of income, or other financial assets.
6. Health Insurance Certificate: Original and a copy of the certificate from a Spanish-authorized insurance provider, confirming comprehensive health coverage without co-payments or deductibles.
7. Criminal Record Certificate: Original and a copy of the criminal record certificate(s) from the countries of residence over the past five years, duly legalized with the Hague Apostille and translated into Spanish.
8. Medical Certificate: Original and a copy of a recent medical certificate, legalized or apostilled and translated into Spanish, confirming the absence of diseases with serious public health implications.
9. Proof of Residence in Consular District: Documents such as a driver’s license or utility bills that verify the applicant’s residence within the jurisdiction of the consulate where the application is submitted.
10. Proof of Legal Residence (for non-citizens applying from a country other than their country of origin): Original and notarized copy of a residence card or valid visa. Tourist visa holders are typically not eligible to apply from within a country where they are not residents.

Application Process

1. Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the Spanish Consulate corresponding to your place of legal residence. Applications are generally submitted in person.
2. Submission: Submit all required documents during your appointment. Ensure that all foreign documents are properly legalized or apostilled and translated into Spanish where necessary.
3. Fees: Pay the applicable visa processing fees, which may vary depending on the consulate and the applicant’s nationality.
4. Processing Time: Processing times can vary, but applicants are generally advised to apply at least 90 days before their intended date of travel.
5. Decision: Once a decision has been made, the consulate will inform the applicant. If approved, the applicant must collect the visa in person.

Important Considerations

• Validity and Renewal: The initial visa is typically valid for one year. Renewals may be granted if the applicant continues to meet the requirements, with subsequent renewals usually valid for two years.
• Family Members: Spouses, unmarried partners, dependent children