Live in Spain Without Working: Non-Lucrative Visa

Live in Spain Without Working

Imagine waking up to the Spanish sun, with no job to rush to and time to enjoy a slower, richer life. Spain’s non-lucrative visa makes this possible for non-EU citizens who have enough savings or passive income to support themselves. It is one of the most popular ways to retire in Spain or take a long break from work. The only rule that matters most is simple: you cannot work while you hold it.

How Much Money You Need

You must prove that you can support yourself without working. The minimum is 400% of Spain’s public income indicator (IPREM), which in 2026 means about €2,400 a month, or €28,800 a year. You need about €600 more a month for each family member who comes with you. You can prove your funds with bank statements, property, pensions or other regular income.

Health Insurance and Other Requirements

You need public or private health insurance from an insurer authorised to operate in Spain. You also need a criminal record certificate from every country where you lived in the last five years, and a medical certificate. Your passport must be valid for at least one year. All foreign documents must be legalised or apostilled and translated into Spanish by a sworn translator.

Steps to Apply for the Non-Lucrative Visa

First, gather your documents and fill in the EX-01 application form. Next, apply in person at the Spanish consulate that serves your place of residence and pay the fee. Once approved, you have one month to collect your visa and must enter Spain while it is still valid. Within one month of arriving, you must apply for your foreigner identity card (TIE) at a police station.

Staying Longer and Renewing Your Visa

Your first residence permit is valid for one year from the day you enter Spain. You can renew it during the two months before it expires, and each renewal is valid for two years. To renew, you must have lived in Spain for more than 183 days in the calendar year. You must also keep enough money and health insurance, and show that your children are enrolled in school.

Check if you qualify for the Spain non-lucrative visa →