Non-Lucrative Residence in Spain

Non-Lucrative Residence in Spain: Live Legally Without Working, Backed by Legal Expertise

Obtaining a non-lucrative residence permit in Spain is an excellent option for non-EU nationals who wish to live legally in the country without engaging in any employment. Whether you are currently in your country of origin or temporarily staying in Spain, this residence authorisation allows you to settle with peace of mind, provided you can demonstrate sufficient financial means.

This article explains how to obtain this type of residence permit, who is eligible, what requirements must be met, and—most importantly—why having the support of specialised immigration lawyers can make a decisive difference in the approval of your application.

What is the Non-Lucrative Residence Permit?

The non-lucrative residence permit is an authorisation to reside in Spain for one year, renewable thereafter, without carrying out any professional or employment activity. It is specifically designed for individuals with stable income streams originating from outside Spain (such as pensions, rental income, investments, etc.).

Who Can Apply?

This residence authorisation is intended for non-European Union nationals who:

  • Intend to reside in Spain for more than 90 days.
  • Do not intend to undertake any employment or professional activity in Spain.
  • Can demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves throughout their stay.
  • Take out private health insurance with no copayments or waiting periods.

👉 It can be applied for from abroad (via the relevant Spanish consulate), and in some cases, from within Spain itself—although this requires careful legal analysis.

What Requirements Must Be Met?

The key requirements are as follows:

  • Sufficient financial means: a minimum monthly income equivalent to 400% of the IPREM for the main applicant, plus 100% for each dependent. In 2025, this translates approximately to:
    • €2,400 per month (or €28,800 per year) for one person.
    • +€600 per month (€7,200 per year) per accompanying family member.
  • Private health insurance in Spain, with full coverage, no copayments, and no waiting periods.
  • A medical certificate stating that the applicant does not suffer from any illness that may have serious public health implications.
  • Clean criminal record certificates from all countries of residence within the last five years.
  • Proof of accommodation in Spain (such as a rental agreement, property deed, or invitation letter).

What Do You Need to Apply for This Authorisation for the First Time?

If you are already in Spain and wish to submit an initial application for a non-lucrative residence permit, you must prepare the following:

  • A valid and complete passport.
  • Proof of financial means showing you can reside in Spain without working. The required amount is generally 400% of the annual IPREM for the main applicant, and 100% for each additional family member.
  • Private health insurance with full coverage in Spain, without copayments.
  • Criminal record certificate from your country of origin and from any country where you have resided in the past five years.
  • Certificate of registration (“volante de empadronamiento”) if residing at an address in Spain.
  • Sworn translations and legalisations, where applicable.

Remember that the application file must be complete, formally correct, and submitted within the appropriate deadlines. An incomplete or improperly submitted application may be archived, deemed inadmissible, or outright rejected.

What If You Already Hold This Permit and Need to Renew It?

The renewal of a non-lucrative residence permit may be submitted within the 60 days prior to its expiration and up to 90 days afterward. However, late submissions can lead to administrative consequences.

For the renewal, you must demonstrate:

  • That you continue to have sufficient financial means.
  • That your private health insurance has remained active and uninterrupted.
  • That you have effectively resided in Spain during the previous residence period (evidence of entries and exits from the country may be requested).
  • That you have no criminal record or legal impediments.

Additionally, you will need to provide a copy of your previous residence permit, updated proof of registration at your place of residence, and renewed supporting documentation as applicable.

Many foreign nationals make mistakes during the renewal process, such as submitting incomplete documentation, providing insurance policies with hidden limitations, or applying outside the legal time frame. These errors may lead to the initiation of residence extinction proceedings and the loss of acquired rights.

Why Choose Us as Your Legal Advisors?

The non-lucrative residence process may seem straightforward, but in practice, most application rejections are due to technicalities: incorrectly prepared documentation, incomplete translations, miscalculated deadlines, or misinterpretations of legal provisions.

In our law firm:

  • ✅ We provide tailored legal advice from the outset, analysing your specific circumstances.
  • ✅ We gather and review all supporting documents, ensuring they meet the requirements set by the consulate or immigration office.
  • ✅ We represent you if you are in Spain, and guide you step by step if you are applying from abroad.
  • ✅ We maintain clear, human, and direct communication at all times.

With our assistance, you increase your chances of success while saving time, money, and unnecessary stress.

What Happens After Obtaining the Residence Permit?

Once your non-lucrative residence permit is granted:

  • You will be allowed to reside legally in Spain for one year, with the possibility of renewing it for an additional two years.
  • You will not be permitted to work, but you may pursue education, make investments, and enjoy life in Spain.
  • After five years of continuous legal residence, you may be eligible to apply for long-term residence status.
  • If your personal or professional circumstances change, we will advise you on how to modify your residence status (e.g., to a work permit).

Real Case Example (Anonymised)

Mikhail, a Russian national with passive income from rental properties, wished to settle in Spain after retirement. Although he had sufficient financial means, his application was initially rejected by the consulate due to an incorrect translation of his bank statement. He came to our law firm, and we submitted a new application with all documentation duly legalised and structured. Within 45 days, his visa was granted, and he now resides in Valencia with complete peace of mind.

Secure Your Future with Expert Legal Guidance

The non-lucrative residence permit is a gateway to a stable and legal life in Spain. But success lies in the details—those that often separate approved applications from denied ones.

📞 Do you want to get it right from the start?
Contact our law firm today and let us help you take this important step with confidence and legal support.