Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa — also commonly referred to as the Retirement Visa or Non-Profit Visa or NLV — is a residence visa for non-EU nationals who wish to live in Spain for more than 90 days without engaging in employment or professional activities in Spain.
This visa is ideal for individuals who have:
- A reliable, ongoing source of passive income (such as pensions, dividends, or rental income), or
- Substantial savings that allow them to support themselves while residing in Spain
Financial Requirements (2026)
As of January 2026, the minimum required income is:
- €28,800 per year for the main applicant
- €7,200 per year for each additional qualifying family member
These amounts are updated annually by Spain’s government based on the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples), Spain’s public income index.
Why the Process Can Be Confusing
There is an abundance of information available online — on Spanish consulate websites, BLS offices, social media groups, blogs, and books. However, applicants often find the process overwhelming because:
- Information from different sources frequently contradicts each other
- Requirements vary depending on the specific Spanish Consulate or BLS office with jurisdiction over your residence
- Forms, fees, appointment systems, and procedures change regularly
- Many consulates and BLS offices do not accept phone calls
- Email inquiries often receive automated responses that simply refer back to their websites
Additionally, online expat forums often contain outdated or inaccurate information shared by well-meaning individuals who completed the process once, often years ago, and in a different jurisdiction.
How I Help
With over 18 years of experience and hundreds of successful applications across all Spanish Consulates and BLS offices in the United States, I provide up-to-date, accurate, and jurisdiction-specific guidance.
For each client, I:
- Provide customized, step-by-step instructions tailored to the specific consulate or BLS office handling the application
- Take into account your personal circumstances, including:
- Financial profile
- Health insurance requirements
- Place of residence
- Marriage documentation
- Children’s birth records
- Supply direct contact information for relevant government agencies
- Offer guidance on obtaining the required supporting documents
- Review all documentation and advise whether certified translations into Spanish are required
- Assist in organizing your application package to minimize the risk of delays
- Coach you before your visa appointment so you feel fully prepared
I maintain open communication throughout the process and respond to client questions in real time. You are welcome to reach out as often as needed to ensure clarity and confidence at every stage.
Schedule a Consultation
To schedule a consultation, please email:
I look forward to assisting you with your move to Spain.