Non-Lucrative Residence in Spain

Are you looking to live legally in Spain without engaging in work activities? If you have sufficient financial resources, the non-lucrative residence permit offers you the opportunity to reside in Spain and enjoy its culture, lifestyle, and environment. 

In this guide, we explain the key requirements, documentation, and benefits of this type of residency, along with the step-by-step application process. 

What Is the Non-Lucrative Residence Permit?

The non-lucrative residence permit is a visa that allows individuals to live in Spain for one year without performing any work or professional activities. This permit is ideal for those who: 

  • Have sufficient financial means to support themselves. 
  • Are interested in residing in Spain for extended periods.

 

Once granted, the permit can be renewed for two additional years, and the time spent in Spain can count toward permanent residency or Spanish nationality. 

Requirements for the Non-Lucrative Residence Permit

To apply for the non-lucrative residence visa, you must meet the following conditions: 

  1. Not a European Union Citizen: 
    1. Applicants must not hold citizenship of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland. 
  2. Legal Status Outside Spain: 
    1. The application must be submitted from your country of residence; you cannot be in Spain illegally. 
  3. Clean Criminal Record: 
    1. Provide a certificate of no criminal record from Spain and all countries where you have lived in the past five years. 
  4. Sufficient Financial Means: 
    1. The financial requirements are as follows: 
      1. Main applicant: €25,817 per year (400% of IPREM). 
      2. Each additional family member: €6,454 per year (100% of IPREM). 
  5. Health Insurance: 
    1. You must have private health insurance from a provider authorized to operate in Spain. 
  6. Medical Certificate: 
    1. A medical certificate confirming that you do not suffer from any disease that may impact public health. 

Required Documentation for the Application

To apply for the non-lucrative residence permit, you will need the following documents:

  • Non-lucrative visa application form

     

  • Valid passport 

    • Must have a minimum validity of one year at the time of application. 

  • Criminal record certificate 

    • Issued by authorities in your country of residence and other countries where you have lived in the past five years. 

  • Proof of financial means

     
    • Recent bank statements, income certificates, or other official documents proving you meet the financial requirements. 

  • Health insurance documentation

     
    • Evidence of private health insurance that provides full coverage in Spain. 

  • Medical certificate 

    • A document issued by a medical professional certifying your health status. 

 

Important Note: Any documents issued outside of Spain must be: 

  1. Translated into Spanish by an official translator. 
  2. Legalized or apostilled for validity. 

How Long Does the Process Take?

The typical resolution period for non-lucrative residence applications is approximately three months. The countdown starts the day after your application is officially received. 

What if I Don’t Receive a Response?

If you do not receive a resolution within three months, the application is considered denied by administrative silence. In this case, it’s important to seek legal advice to determine your next steps. 

Benefits of the Non-Lucrative Residence Permit

This residence permit comes with significant advantages for individuals and families who wish to live in Spain: 

  1. Legal Residence: 
    1. Live in Spain legally for one year with the option to renew for two additional years. 
  2. Path to Permanent Residency: 
    1. After five years, you can apply for long-term residence in Spain. 
  3. Time Toward Spanish Citizenship: 
    1. The time spent in Spain with this permit counts toward eligibility for Spanish nationality, depending on your case (one, two, or ten years). 
  4. Family Inclusion: 
    1. Your spouse and dependent family members can also apply under your financial support. 

Limitations of the Non-Lucrative Residence Permit

While the non-lucrative residence permit provides a great opportunity to live in Spain, it does come with certain limitations: 

  1. No Work Authorization: 
    1. This permit strictly prohibits any professional or work-related activities in Spain. 
  2. Limited Time Outside Spain: 
    1. You cannot spend more than 180 consecutive days outside Spain in a year, as it may jeopardize the renewal of your permit. 

Why Choose Sterna Lawyers for Your Application?

The process of applying for a non-lucrative residence permit can be complex. Our team at Sterna Lawyers provides: 

  • Expert Advice: Step-by-step guidance tailored to your unique situation. 
  • Efficient Documentation Review: Ensuring your application is complete and error-free. 
  • Personalized Support: We help you prepare all the necessary documents and follow up with the consulate. 

Contact Us Today to Begin Your Application

Are you ready to start your application for a non-lucrative residence permit in Spain? Our expert immigration lawyers are here to guide you through the process. 

📞 Call us now at +34 911 270 920 or click below to schedule a consultation: 

[Schedule Your Consultation Now] 

We offer face-to-face, Skype, and phone consultations to help you achieve your goal of living in Spain legally and stress-free.