Non Lucrative Visa – A Comprehensive Guide for 2024
Residence Without Investment in Spain
Spain offers a variety of visas tailored to different needs, but for those who wish to reside without making a substantial financial investment, the Non Lucrative Visa stands out. This visa presents a unique opportunity for individuals and families eager to immerse themselves in Spain’s rich culture and enjoy a high quality of life without the obligation to work or invest heavily in the country.
Benefits of the Non Lucrative Visa in Spain
Obtaining a Non Lucrative Visa in Spain comes with numerous advantages. One of the most significant is the freedom it affords. Visa holders can live in Spain without the burden of maintaining a business or job, allowing them to fully appreciate the benefits of residing in Spain.
- No Investment Required: There is no need to make a minimum investment in Spain to qualify for this visa.
- Access to the Schengen Zone: Visa holders can travel freely within the Schengen Zone, making it ideal for vacations and exploring other European countries.
- Bring Your Family: You can include your family members in your visa application, ensuring that your loved ones can also enjoy the benefits of living in Spain.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After renewing the visa, residents can eventually apply for permanent residency and, with that, for Spanish citizenship if needed.
- Possibility to Switch to a Work Permit: If you decide to set up a business or seek employment, you can apply for a work permit, provided you meet the necessary conditions.
Non Lucrative Visa in Spain requirements.
Who can apply for the Non Lucrative Visa
The Non Lucrative Visa is designed for non-EU citizens who possess the financial means to support themselves without working in Spain. This visa is particularly attractive for:
Retirees: Many retirees opt for this visa because of their pensioner status, seeking to a more relaxed lifestyle.
Individuals with Passive Income: Those with significant savings, pensions, or other sources of passive income can also apply, as long as they can demonstrate sufficient financial resources.
Families: Applicants can include their spouse and dependent children in the visa application, making it an excellent option for families seeking to start a new life abroad.
While some remote workers engaged in digital activities may apply for this visa, the Digital Nomad Visa is generally a more suitable option for such profiles.
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Request a consultationDocumentation Required for the Non Lucrative Visa
Applying for the Non Lucrative Visa involves gathering several essential documents to demonstrate your eligibility. These include:
Valid and unexpired Passport: the original and a photocopy of the page or pages of the passport that contain biometric data must be submitted. The passport must have a minimum validity period of one year and contain two blank pages.
Visa Application Form: complete and sign the visa application form, which can be obtained from the Spanish consulate or your Lawyer can provide you with one and give you appropriate guidance.
Passport Photos: provide recent passport-sized photographs that meet the ICAO standards.
Proof of Financial Means: evidence of sufficient financial resources to support yourself and any accompanying family members, such as bank statements, pension statements, and proof of other income sources.
Marriage certificate (If applicable): must be officially apostilled and sworn translated.
Medical Certificate: Obtain a medical certificate from a doctor stating that you do not have any diseases that could possibly be a threat to public health according to the 2005 International Health Regulations.
Clear Criminal Record: issued by the country or countries of residence for the past 5 years and, with that, must be apostilled and sworn translated
Please note that the Immigration Office may request further documentation if deemed necessary.
How to Apply for a Non Lucrative Visa in Spain
The application process for the Non Lucrative Visa involves several crucial step to ensure a successful outcome. Here is a detailed guide:
1. Prepare Your Documents: gather all the required documents with your Lawyer, ensuring they are apostilled when necessary and translated by a sworn translator.
2. Pay the Visa Fee: pay the non-refundable visa application fee. Prices may vary depending on nationality.
3. Submit Your Application: your lawyer will submit your visa application and supporting documents to the Spanish embassy or Immigration Office.
4. Attend the Visa Interview: you may be required to attend an interview at the consulate about your reasons for moving to Spain and your financial situation. Your Lawyer can help you prepare the interview if needed.
5. Wait for Processing: the processing time can vary. During this time, the consulate will review your application and may request additional information. If your application is denied, your Lawyer can file an appeal.
6. Receive Your Visa and TIE Card: If approved, you will receive your visa and can schedule an appointment to collect your TIE and undergo fingerprinting at the police station.
To complete your settlement in Spain, you must register with your local Town Hall (in Spanish “empadronamiento”) to obtain a certificate of residence. This registration is essential for many administrative procedures in Spain.
Non Lucrative Visa Income Requirements.
Like most residence permits in Spain, it is necessary to demonstrate sufficient financial means for the intended stay.
In the case of a Non Lucrative Visa, the main applicant must show an income of 2.400.-€ (approximately £2.131) per month, equating to around 28.800.-€ (approximately £25.572) per year. Each additional family member will require an additional 600.-€ (approximately £532) per month, or about 7.200.-€ (approximately £6.384) per year.
Any income or assets, except wages, can be considered
Renewal and Initial Residence of the Non Lucrative Visa
Once you have obtained your Non Lucrative Visa in Spain, it is important to understand the renewal process in order to extend your residence permit when the time comes.
This visa grants you one year of initial residence in Spain. Upon renewal, you will have two more years of residence. After five years of continuous and duly renewed residence, you will be able to apply for permanent residency.
We strongly recommend that you renew your permit 60 days before your visa expires to avoid any complications.
As with your initial application, you must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to sustain your stay during the renewed period. You may also be required to provide additional documentation proving your residence in the country during that year.
How Long does it take for a Non Lucrative Visa to be granted.
The processing time for the Non Lucrative Visa can vary depending on the consulate and the complexity of your application. Generally, it takes approximately three months for the visa to be processed.
Some factors that can influence the timeline are:
Consulate Workload: high volumes of applications can lead to longer processing times.
Completeness of Application: submitting a complete and well-organized application can speed up the process; missing documents or incomplete information can result in delays and denials.
Additional Information Requests: If the consulate requires additional information or documentation, it can extend the processing time. Promptly responding to any requests can help avoid further delays.
Working with your lawyer to plan your application and review documentation is essential to meet deadlines and ensure all requirements are met.
Lawyers for Non Lucrative Visa in Spain.
The Non Lucrative Visa in Spain offers a gateway to a serene and enriching lifestyle in one of Europe’s most appealing destinations. This visa is perfect for retirees and those with passive income who wish to experience Spain’s vibrant culture and high quality of life without the need to invest or work.
Should you wish to apply for your Non Lucrative Visa with our immigration Lawyers, please feel free to contact us.