Non-Lucrative Residence Visa
People with sufficient passive income or savings who want to live in Spain without working.
The Non-Lucrative Residence Visa is a Spanish visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€80 visa + ~€16 residence fee (higher for US/UK/Canada/Australia by reciprocity)) and processing time (~1-3 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa is for
People with sufficient passive income or savings who want to live in Spain without working.
Counts toward 5 years for long-term residence and 10 years for citizenship.
Non-Lucrative Residence Visa - eligibility criteria
- Income ≥ 400% of IPREM (~€28,800/year) plus 100% per dependant
- Private health insurance with full cover in Spain
- No criminal record certificate (apostilled)
- Not engaging in any work or professional activity
- Proof of accommodation in Spain
Non-Lucrative Residence Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa (Spain) is ~€80 visa + ~€16 residence fee (higher for US/UK/Canada/Australia by reciprocity), with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
| Type | Temporary residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a Spanish consulate in your country of residence |
| Length of stay | 1 year initial, renewable 2+2 years |
| Work rights | No economic activity in Spain |
| Study rights | Permitted |
| Government fee | ~€80 visa + ~€16 residence fee (higher for US/UK/Canada/Australia by reciprocity) |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months |
| Route to PR | Counts toward 5 years for long-term residence and 10 years for citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
Counts toward 5 years for long-term residence and 10 years for citizenship.
Many applicants also compare DNV · Digital Nomad Visa (International Teleworker), Larga Duración · Long-Term Residence (Residencia de Larga Duración), Schengen C · Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Spanish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Non-Lucrative Residence Visa pitfalls we fix
Non-Lucrative Residence Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa cost?
The Non-Lucrative Residence Visa government fee is ~€80 visa + ~€16 residence fee (higher for US/UK/Canada/Australia by reciprocity). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs before applying.
How long does the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa lead to permanent residence?
Counts toward 5 years for long-term residence and 10 years for citizenship.
Can I work on the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa?
Work rights: No economic activity in Spain.
Who can apply for the Non-Lucrative Residence Visa?
People with sufficient passive income or savings who want to live in Spain without working.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Spain government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs - official Spain immigration authority