The Spain non-lucrative visa allows skilled expats to live in Spain without working locally, relying instead on income from abroad. As of October 2025, with updates from the EU’s Entry/Exit System, this visa remains available for non-EU citizens who meet financial and other requirements. It provides access to Spain’s healthcare, education, and lifestyle, with a path to permanent residency after five years.
What Is the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa?
This visa lets non-EU folks settle in Spain for a full year at first, without taking a job there. It fits skilled people—think freelancers or consultants—who earn from work or investments back home. You stay independent, no drain on local resources. Your spouse and kids under 18 can tag along too, under family rules.
Spain’s big immigration update in May 2025, via Royal Decree 1155/2024, keeps things focused on real self-support and fitting in. For expats with global gigs, it opens doors to better living, from mountain hikes in the Pyrenees to city buzz in Seville. After five steady years, you can aim for forever residency.
Who Can Get It? Key Rules for 2025
To land this visa in October 2025, show you can handle life in Spain on your own dime. Officials check your money setup and health closely—no shortcuts.
Here’s what counts:
- Your Background: Over 18, from outside the EU. Skilled expats work if it’s all remote and tied to foreign clients.
- Money Proof: Cover 400% of the IPREM monthly rate. That IPREM sits at €600 a month for 2025, so you need €2,400 each month or €28,800 a year. Add €600 monthly (€7,200 yearly) for each family member.
- Health Plan: Get private insurance worth at least €30,000 a year per person. No out-of-pocket hits, and it must work in Spain.
- Clean Slate: Share police checks from home and anywhere you’ve lived the last five years.
- Home Base: Line up a place to stay, like a lease or deed.
- Stay Put: Plan to clock at least 183 days a year in Spain, as the new rules stress.
These steps make sure you’re set to add value, not lean on the system. Check the latest IPREM details on the Ministry of Inclusion site to double-check numbers.
| Who Applies | Yearly Money Needed (2025) | Extra per Family Member |
|---|---|---|
| Just You | €28,800 | €7,200 |
| You + Spouse | €36,000 | Included |
| You + 2 Kids | €50,400 | Included |
What Papers Do You Need?
Pulling together your files takes care, but it’s straightforward. Bring originals plus copies. Translate non-Spanish stuff through approved pros, and add apostilles if your country signed the Hague deal.
Grab these basics:
- Passport good for another year at least.
- Filled-out EX-01 form from your nearest Spanish consulate.
- Money evidence: Six months of bank slips, pension papers, or investment notes hitting that income mark.
- Full insurance policy info.
- Doctor’s note saying you’re clear of big health risks per WHO rules.
- Fresh police certificates, under three months old and stamped.
- Stay proof in Spain.
- A couple of passport photos.
For family, toss in marriage or birth papers. Hand it all over face-to-face at the consulate for your zone. Find full lists on spots like the Spanish Embassy in Washington page.
How to Apply: Easy Steps
Timing matters—kick off three months ahead. Processing runs 4-8 weeks most times, but October crowds can push it to three months.
Here’s the flow:
- Set a Slot: Book online or by email through the consulate. Fall slots fill fast, so jump in early.
- Drop Off Papers: Show up with your stack. Pay up—€80 to €100 usual, more like €516 for some spots like the UK.
- Chat if Asked: They might quiz you on funds, plans, or past. A lawyer can join if you want.
- Wait It Out: Check online for news. Grab your visa stamp in a month if green-lit.
- Head to Spain: Land in 90 days. Sign up at the town hall in 30.
- Get Your Card: Hit the immigration office for the TIE biometric ID—your go-to proof.
Watch for the EU’s new tracking system starting October 12, 2025. UK folks, peek at GOV.UK’s Spain living tips for how your card skips some hassles.
Keeping It Going: Renewals and Next Steps
Your first visa runs one year. Renew for two years at a pop if you hold the line on rules. The 2025 changes mean file 90 days early, with tighter checks on cash flow.
Hit five years straight? Go for permanent status—no end date. That sets you up for citizenship in 10, maybe skipping some tests based on your roots. Stay current via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs hub.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the Spain non-lucrative visa as a skilled expat?
Skilled expats qualify if they have passive income or remote foreign work meeting the €28,800 annual threshold, without plans for local employment.
What is the 2025 income requirement for a family of four?
The main applicant needs €28,800 yearly, plus €7,200 per dependent, totaling €50,400 for a family of four.
How long does processing take in October 2025?
Expect 4-8 weeks, though high demand may extend it to three months; apply early.
Can I include adult children in my application?
No, only children under 18 qualify as dependents; adults must apply separately with their own financial proof.
What happens after five years on this visa?
You can apply for permanent residency, requiring continuous stay and integration evidence like language proficiency.
