Requirements for Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Spain continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for expats looking to relocate to Europe. Known for its sunny weather, rich culture, and high quality of life, the country offers several visa options for foreigners wishing to live within its borders. One of the most sought-after visas is the Visado de Residencia no Lucrativa (Non-Lucrative Visa), ideal for individuals who want to reside in Spain without engaging in any professional or business activities. In this blog post, we’ll break down the most up-to-date requirements for obtaining Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa in 2024, offering a detailed guide to help you navigate the application process.

What Is the Non-Lucrative Visa?

Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa is a long-term residence permit for non-EU citizens who want to live in Spain but do not intend to work or engage in commercial activities within the country. This visa is popular among retirees, digital nomads with remote income, and individuals looking for an extended stay in Spain. The visa allows you to stay in Spain for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of renewals leading to permanent residency.

Who Is the Non-Lucrative Visa For?

This visa is perfect for:

• Retirees who wish to enjoy Spain’s quality of life and climate.
• Individuals with sufficient savings or income from abroad.
• Remote workers or digital nomads who do not plan to work for Spanish companies.
• People looking for a quieter, relaxed pace of life in Spain.

Now, let’s delve into the detailed requirements for applying for this visa in 2024.

Key Requirements for Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa in 2024

1. Proof of Financial Means

One of the most critical requirements is demonstrating that you have the financial means to support yourself without working in Spain. The Spanish government uses the Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples (IPREM) as a benchmark to calculate the minimum income required.

In 2024, the minimum income requirement is:

• Monthly Requirement: 400% of IPREM, which is around €2,400 per month.
• Annual Requirement: Approximately €28,800 per year for the main applicant.
• Additional Dependents: For each dependent, you must demonstrate an additional 100% of IPREM, which is roughly €600 per month or €7,200 per year.

This income can come from various sources such as pensions, savings, rental income, or any other non-employment income.

2. Private Health Insurance

Applicants must have private health insurance with a Spanish insurance company, offering full coverage within Spain. The policy must:

• Be comprehensive and cover all medical expenses.
• Be without co-payments (sin copagos), meaning you shouldn’t have to pay anything extra for treatments.
• Have a validity of at least one year.

Popular health insurance companies in Spain include Sanitas, Adeslas, and Asisa, among others. It’s important to ensure that your insurance plan is fully compliant with Spanish regulations for visa purposes.

3. Clean Criminal Record

You must provide a certificate showing that you have no criminal record in your home country or any country where you have lived in the past five years. This document must:

• Be less than three months old.
• Be officially translated into Spanish.
• Be apostilled if you’re from a country that is part of the Hague Convention.

4. Medical Certificate

Applicants must submit a medical certificate stating that they are free from any diseases that could pose a risk to public health, as per International Health Regulations. The certificate must:

• Be issued within the last three months.
• Include specific wording required by Spanish authorities, such as: “This certificate attests that Mr./Mrs. [Your Name] does not suffer from any of the diseases that could cause serious public health consequences, in accordance with the International Health Regulations of 2005.“
• Be translated into Spanish.

5. Valid Passport

You need a passport that is valid for at least one year, with a minimum of two blank pages for visa stamps. It is advisable to ensure your passport is valid for more than the required time in case of delays or unexpected circumstances.

6. Proof of Accommodation

You will need to provide evidence that you have accommodation in Spain, either by showing:

• A rental contract (contrato de alquiler) or a property purchase deed (escritura de compraventa).
• A letter of invitation if you will be staying with a friend or family member, along with proof of their residence.

In recent years, Spanish authorities have placed a greater emphasis on this requirement to ensure applicants are genuinely prepared to live in Spain.

7. Visa Application Fee

There is a non-refundable fee for applying for the Non-Lucrative Visa. The amount varies by country, so it’s essential to check with the Spanish consulate in your home country. As of 2024, fees typically range from €60 to €120. Ensure you keep proof of payment, as this will be part of your application package.

Application Process for Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa in 2024

1. Submit Your Application

Applications must be submitted to the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country. You cannot apply from within Spain. The application process generally includes:

• Filling out the official visa application form.
• Submitting all required documentation.
• Attending a personal interview at the consulate if necessary.

2. Wait for Approval

Once your application is submitted, the processing time can take anywhere from one to three months, depending on the consulate and the complexity of your case. It is crucial to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for any potential delays.

3. Entry to Spain

Once your visa is approved, you will be issued a visa that allows you to enter Spain. Upon arrival, you must apply for a Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE), the foreigner identity card, within 30 days. The TIE is essential for long-term residency and functions as your identification while in Spain.

4. Renewal of the Non-Lucrative Visa

The initial visa is granted for one year. You can renew it for two additional years, and after five years, you may be eligible for long-term residency. To renew your visa, you must continue to meet the financial and insurance requirements. It’s important to start the renewal process at least two months before your visa expires.

Tips for a Successful Application in 2024

• Start Early: Begin gathering your documents several months in advance, as some (like the criminal record and medical certificate) can take time.
• Ensure Your Financials Are Solid: Spanish authorities are strict about the financial requirement. Make sure you can provide solid proof of income or savings.
• Work with an Expert: If you’re unsure about any part of the process, it may be worthwhile to work with an immigration lawyer or visa consultant who can guide you through the application and ensure all your documents meet the requirements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete Documentation: Missing or incomplete documents are one of the most common reasons for visa denials. Make sure to double-check all the required paperwork.
• Wrong Health Insurance: Not all health insurance plans meet the Spanish visa requirements. Ensure your plan is from a Spanish insurer and does not include co-payments.
• Applying Too Late: Visa processing times can vary, and delays are common. Apply well in advance of your planned move.

Conclusion

The Non-Lucrative Visa remains a fantastic option for those looking to live in Spain without working. While the process can seem daunting, meeting the requirements and submitting a well-prepared application will greatly improve your chances of success. Whether you’re a retiree, digital nomad, or someone looking to experience life in Spain, the Non-Lucrative Visa offers a pathway to enjoy all that Spain has to offer.

If you’re planning to apply in 2024, following this guide will help you navigate the process with ease. Enjoy your future in Spain!