Non-lucrative residency: What it is and what it’s for

What is Non-Lucrative Residency in Spain?

Non-lucrative residency is a permit that allows foreigners to live in Spain without the need to engage in work or professional activities within the country. It is regulated under the Organic Law 4/2000, of January 11, on the rights and freedoms of foreigners in Spain and their social integration. This option is intended for those who have sufficient resources from sources outside of Spain, such as investments, pensions, or businesses, and wish to enjoy the quality of life that our country offers without depending on local employment. This permit provides the opportunity to reside in Spain long-term without engaging in economic activity, while still having access to the benefits of living in one of the most attractive countries in the world.

This visa is ideal for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle with access to Spain’s excellent healthcare, educational, and cultural infrastructure. It allows you to enjoy a privileged environment without the pressure of generating income within the country.

 

 

Who is this visa for?

Non-lucrative residency is designed for individuals who wish to live in Spain but do not need to work in the country. It is especially directed at:

• Retirees who want to enjoy their retirement in Spain without the need to work.
• Investors and entrepreneurs who manage businesses outside of Spain but wish to live in the country while relying on their income sources abroad.
• Self-employed professionals or freelancers with passive income or income from outside Spain, who wish to reside in Spain without engaging in local work activities.
• Families who want to move to Spain to enjoy its quality of life but do not plan to engage in economic activity in the country.

Requirements

To apply for this visa, it is essential to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to reside in Spain without the need to work. This minimum amount varies depending on the number of family members accompanying you and must be proven with documents such as bank statements, tax returns, or income reports.

The applicant must have health insurance, contracted with an authorized insurance entity to operate in Spain, providing coverage equivalent to the Spanish Social Security system and valid throughout the requested residency period. A certificate issued by the competent authorities must prove that the applicant has no criminal record for crimes covered by Spanish law, nor in the countries where they have resided in the past five years.

Additionally, the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration’s website states that the concept of “non-lucrative temporary residency” is designed for third-country nationals, not citizens of the European Union. EU citizens do not apply for “non-lucrative residencies” as they are protected by the freedom of movement and residence established in the EU’s Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

Non-lucrative residency is therefore an excellent option for those who want to enjoy a peaceful life in Spain without the burden of generating income in the country.

 

✅​ Would you like to learn more about how to obtain non-lucrative residency?

At Adlanter, we have a team of professionals specialized in international mobility, ready to guide you through the entire process of applying for non-lucrative residency. If you have questions about the requirements, necessary documents, or the processing procedure, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll help make your dream of living in Spain a reality.