The non-lucrative residence in Spain It is one of the most requested permits by non-EU citizens who wish to live legally in Spain without carrying out a work activity.

This permit is especially attractive to retirees, investors, rentiers, professionals who live off passive income, or people with sufficient assets, since it allows one to establish residence in Spain provided that sufficient financial means are proven.

In this guide you will discover Who can apply for non-lucrative residency, what are the requirements, how much money do you need to show, what documentation do you need, and how can NIESPANA help you throughout the process?.

What is non-lucrative residency in Spain?

The non-profit residence It is a residence permit regulated by Spanish legislation that allows non-EU citizens to reside in Spain for one year, with the possibility of renewal, without the need to work.

Although it does not initially authorize you to work in Spain, it does allow you to enjoy all the advantages of legally residing in the country:

• Living legally in Spain.
• Travel freely within the Schengen area.
• Access to the education system.
• Reuniting certain family members in the future.
• Renew the authorization and subsequently modify it to a work permit if the legal requirements are met.

If you would like to know about other available permits, please visit our section on Residence Permits in Spain.

---

Who can apply for non-lucrative residency?

The non-profit residency is aimed at non-EU citizens who wish to move their habitual residence to Spain without working.

This permit is usually the best option for:

• International retirees.
• People with rental income.
• Investors.
• Rentiers.
• People who live off dividends.
• People with sufficient assets.
• Families wishing to settle in Spain.

It is especially common among citizens of:

• USA
• United Kingdom
• Mexico
• Colombia
• Argentina
• Venezuela
• Canada
• United Arab Emirates

Requirements to apply for non-lucrative residence in Spain

To obtain this permit, it is necessary to meet several requirements established by Spanish regulations.

1. Demonstrate sufficient economic resources

It is essential to prove that you have sufficient financial means to live in Spain without needing to work.

For reference, the following is usually required:

• 400 % of the IPREM for the main applicant.
• 100 additional % from IPREM for each family member.

These resources can be accredited through:

• Bank statements.
• Investment certificates.
• Dividends.
• Pensions.
• Real estate rentals.
• Financial assets.

2. Take out private health insurance

You must have private health insurance:

• No co-payments.
• With full coverage in Spain.
• Equivalent to the Spanish healthcare system.
• Valid for the entire duration of the permit.

3. No criminal record

You will need to present:

• Criminal record certificate.
• Apostilled.
• Translated by a sworn translator where applicable.
• Issued within the required timeframe.

4. Not to be in an irregular situation

You cannot be illegally present in Spanish territory at the time of submitting the application when the procedure so requires.

How much money do you have to show?

One of the most frequently asked questions is how much money is required for non-lucrative residency.

The amount depends on the current IPREM.

For reference:

• Main applicant: approximately equivalent to 400 % of the IPREM.
• Each family member: approximately one 100 % additional to the IPREM.

The exact amount may vary each year, so it is advisable to check the updated amounts before submitting your application.

At NIESPANA we review your financial situation beforehand to confirm that you meet this requirement.

Required documentation

You will normally need to present:

• Official form.
• Valid passport.
• Photographs.
• Private health insurance.
• Medical certificate.
• Criminal record certificate.
• Proof of financial resources.
• Payment of administrative fees.

Depending on the Spanish consulate where you submit the application, additional documents may be required.

How long does the procedure take?

Timeframes may vary depending on the country and the Spanish consulate.

Generally:

• Document preparation: between 2 and 6 weeks.
• Administrative resolution: approximately between 1 and 3 months.
• Visa issuance: subject to consulate availability.

Once in Spain you will need to apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE).

Is it possible to work with a non-profit residency?

No.

Non-profit residency does not initially authorize work neither for someone else nor for oneself.

However, after fulfilling certain legal requirements, it is possible to request a modification of the permit to obtain work authorization.

Can I bring my family?

Yeah.

Once the legal requirements have been met, you can initiate a procedure to family reunification so that certain family members can live with you in Spain.

Why choose NIESPANA?

In NIESPANA we carry more than 23 years helping foreign citizens to settle legally in Spain.

Our team will accompany you throughout the entire procedure:

• Complete review of the documentation.
• Apostille and sworn translations.
• Preparation of the file.
• NIE application.
• Opening a bank account.
• Assistance throughout the entire process.
• Personalized follow-up until you obtain your residency.

We work with clients from all over the world, offering a fast, secure service fully tailored to each case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a non-lucrative residence permit allow you to work?

No. This permit only authorizes legal residence in Spain.

How long does it last?

The initial authorization is usually granted for one year and can be renewed if the requirements continue to be met.

Is it necessary to purchase health insurance?

Yes. It must be private, with no co-payments and full coverage in Spain.

Can I apply from Spain?

Generally, the application must be submitted from the applicant's country of residence through the competent Spanish consulate.

Can I include my family?

Yes, provided you can prove sufficient financial resources for all members of the family unit.

Do you need help with your non-profit residency?

In NIESPANA we have been carrying more than 23 years old helping citizens from all over the world obtain their legal residency in Spain.

Our team will review your case, prepare all the documentation, and accompany you until you obtain your residence permit.

Request a personalized consultation and start your process to live in Spain today.