The Non-Lucrative Visa Spain is the perfect pathway for UK citizens, retirees, and financially independent individuals who want to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle without working. Whether you’re drawn to Spain’s 300+ days of sunshine, world-class healthcare, affordable cost of living, or rich cultural heritage, this visa opens the door to long-term residency in one of Europe’s most desirable destinations.
Since Brexit removed unlimited EU access for British citizens, the non-lucrative visa has become the most popular option for retirees and early retirees seeking to make Spain their home. With no work requirements, straightforward financial criteria, and a clear path to permanent residency after five years, this visa offers the freedom to enjoy Spain at your own pace.
MyMoveSpain specialises in Non-Lucrative Visa applications with a 95% approval success rate. Our immigration experts handle every step from document preparation to residence card collection, ensuring your transition to Spanish life is seamless and stress-free.
Before applying for the Non-Lucrative Visa, ensure you meet the following criteria:
Financial Resources
You must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support yourself and any dependents to qualify. This typically means showing an annual income of at least €27,115.20 for the main applicant, with additional funds required for dependents:
Main applicant: €27,115.20 per year (€2,259.60 per month)
Per dependent: €6,778.80 per year (€564.90 per month)
Health Insurance
You are required to have private health insurance from a company authorised in Spain. The policy must provide comprehensive coverage with no copayments.
Clean Criminal Record
You must submit a criminal record certificate showing no criminal history from the countries you have resided in for the past five years.
Medical Certificate
You need a medical certificate that confirms you do not suffer from any illnesses that could pose a public health risk as defined by the WHO.
Proof of Accommodation
Provide proof of suitable accommodation in Spain, such as a rental agreement or ownership documents.
At My Move Spain, we manage the entire Non-Lucrative Visa application process, making it stress-free and straightforward.
Initial Consultation
We assess your eligibility and gather all relevant information to ensure your application meets the specific requirements.
Documentation Preparation
We help you collect, translate, and legalise all required documents, ensuring everything is correctly formatted and increases your chances of success.
Application Submission
Our team submits your application to the appropriate Spanish consulate or embassy and handles any inquiries or additional requests from the authorities.
Follow-Up and Support
We monitor the status of your application, provide updates, and ensure any additional requirements are addressed quickly.
Post-Approval Assistance
Once approved, we help you with the final steps, such as registering with the local municipality and setting up your new life in Spain.
The Non-Lucrative Visa offers many advantages for those looking to make Spain their new home:
Residency Benefits
Long-Term Stay: This visa allows you to live in Spain for an initial one year, renewable for two years.
Path to Permanent Residency: After five years of continuous residency, you can apply for long-term residency in Spain.
Health and Education
Healthcare Access: With private health insurance, you can access Spain’s excellent healthcare system.
Education Opportunities: Your children can benefit from Spain’s reputable education system, including international and private schools.
Lifestyle and Culture
High Quality of Life: Enjoy Spain’s sunny climate, rich culture, and world-class cuisine.
Travel Freedom: As a Spanish resident, you can travel freely within the Schengen Area, which includes 26 European countries.
Living in Spain: The Ideal Choice
Spain offers an exceptional quality of life, making it the perfect destination for a relaxed and fulfilling lifestyle.
Climate and Lifestyle
With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Spain’s Mediterranean climate is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a relaxed pace of life.
Affordable Cost of Living
Spain provides a lower cost of living compared to other Western European countries, with affordable housing, food, and transportation options.
Natural Beauty and Scenic Landscapes
From beautiful beaches to breathtaking mountains, Spain’s diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for exploration and outdoor adventures.
Health and Education
Spain’s world-class healthcare system and excellent educational institutions ensure you and your family receive top-tier services in all aspects of life.
By choosing Spain as your new home, you can experience an enriching and balanced lifestyle. Whether you seek tranquility in your retirement or are looking for a long-term stay in a beautiful European country, the Non-Lucrative Visa is your gateway to making it happen.
The Non-Lucrative Visa Spain (officially called Visado de Residencia No Lucrativa) is a residency permit for non-EU nationals who wish to live in Spain for extended periods without engaging in any work or business activity.
Who Is This Visa For?
Retirees, British state pensioners and early retirees who want to enjoy Spain’s climate, culture, and relaxed lifestyle. With the UK state pension averaging £11,500 annually, many retirees easily meet the financial requirements.
Financially Independent Individuals: Those living on passive income from investments, rental properties, dividends, annuities, or substantial savings who don’t need employment.
Property Owners UK citizens who own Spanish property but are now restricted to 90 days per 180-day period under post-Brexit Schengen rules. The non-lucrative visa allows unlimited time at your Spanish home.
“Gap Year” Adults Individuals taking career breaks, sabbaticals, or early retirement who want to immerse themselves in Spanish culture without work commitments.
The financial requirements for the non-lucrative visa Spain are based on Spain’s IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples), a reference index updated annually.
Income Requirements
Main Applicant: €28,800 per year (€2,400 per month)
Each Dependent: €7,200 per year (€600 per month)
Example Family Calculations:
Acceptable Income Sources
Passive income only (no employment):
State pensions (UK state pension, occupational pensions)
Private pensions and retirement annuities
Investment income (dividends, interest, capital gains)
Rental income from properties you own
Trust distributions or family trust income
Savings (must demonstrate sustainable drawdown)
Life insurance annuities
❌ Not accepted: Employment income, self-employment, freelance work, or any active business activity
Proving Your Financial Means
You must demonstrate financial stability through:
Bank statements showing consistent income deposits (6-12 months)
Pension statements from UK DWP or private pension providers,
Investment portfolio statements showing value and regular distributions
Property rental agreements and income evidence
Tax returns demonstrating passive income sources
Bank balance for savings-based applications (€28,800+ readily accessible)
Important: Large, sudden deposits raise red flags. Immigration authorities want to see consistent, sustainable income over time, not one-off transfers into accounts.
Successful non-lucrative visa Spain applications require meticulous documentation. Missing or incorrect documents are the leading cause of delays and refusals.
Essential Documents for All Applicants
1. Valid Passport
2. Completed Application Forms
3. Photographs
4. Criminal Record Certificate
5. Medical Certificate
6. Proof of Financial Means (detailed above)
7. Private Health Insurance
8. Proof of Accommodation in Spain
9. Proof of Consular Jurisdiction
10. Application Fees
Additional Documents for Family Members
Spouses/Partners:
Dependent Children:
Dependent Parents:
Document Translation Requirements
All non-Spanish documents must be officially translated by:
MyMoveSpain arranges all translations through certified translators, ensuring accuracy and acceptance.
Private health insurance is mandatory for the non-lucrative visa Spain and must meet specific criteria that many standard travel insurance policies don’t satisfy.
Required Coverage Specifications
Minimum €30,000 coverage per person
Full coverage in Spain (entire Spanish territory)
Zero co-payments (no out-of-pocket costs)
No waiting periods or pre-existing condition exclusions
Valid for entire visa duration (minimum 1 year)
Authorised insurer registered to operate in Spain
Comprehensive coverage including hospitalisation, emergencies, specialist visits
Recommended Insurance Providers
Spanish Insurance Companies:
International Providers (Spain-specific policies):
Cost: €50-€150 per month, depending on age and coverage level
Common Insurance Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using travel insurance (not sufficient)
❌ UK NHS or EHIC/GHIC (not accepted for visa applications)
❌ Policies with co-payments or deductibles
❌ Limited coverage policies (less than €30,000)
❌ Insurers not authorised in Spain
MyMoveSpain partners with leading Spanish insurance providers to secure compliant policies at competitive rates.
95% Approval Success Rate
Our expert immigration specialists understand exactly what Spanish consulates require, resulting in significantly higher approval rates than DIY applications.
Comprehensive Document Preparation
We ensure every document meets requirements:
End-to-End Support
Pre-application:
During application:
Post-approval:
Expert Knowledge of Regional Variations
Different Spanish consulates (London, Manchester, Edinburgh) have slight procedural variations. We understand these nuances, optimising your application for your specific consulate.
Save Time and Reduce Stress
The average DIY applicant spends 60-80 hours on research, document preparation, and appointments. Many face refusals requiring restarting the entire process.
MyMoveSpain handles everything, allowing you to focus on planning your exciting new life in Spain.
Not difficult with proper preparation. You need €28,800/year passive income, health insurance, and correct documents. 95% approval rate with expert help.
Yes, if you spend 183+ days/year in Spain. You become a tax resident and must declare worldwide income. Double taxation treaties may apply.
2-4 months from consulate submission to approval. Total timeline including document prep: 4-6 months. The London consulate often takes 3-4 months.
Unlimited renewals if you meet requirements. Pattern: 1 year initial, then 2+2 years. After 5 years, apply for permanent residency instead.
Provide 6-12 months bank statements, pension statements, investment portfolios, rental income proof, or tax returns showing €28,800+ passive income.
You can apply for permanent residency (residencia de larga duración). After 10 years total, you’re eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship.
No current plans. UK citizens remain subject to the 90/180 Schengen rule post-Brexit. You need a residency visa like Non-Lucrative visa, for longer stays.
€28,800/year (€2,400/month) for main applicant. Add €7,200/year per dependent. Must be passive income from pensions, investments, or savings.
Property ownership doesn’t grant residency rights. You’re limited to 90 days per 180-day period unless you have a residency visa like a Non-Lucrative.
You can’t “beat” it legally. Options: Apply for a Spanish residency visa (Non-Lucrative, Digital Nomad, Work Permit) or limit stays to 90 days/180 days.
Non-Lucrative Visa renewals are granted for 2-year periods after the initial 1-year visa. First renewal: 2 years. Second renewal: 2 more years.
Live legally in Spain for 5 continuous years on any residency visa (Non-Lucrative, Digital Nomad, Work Permit), then apply for permanent residency.
