Visas for Spain

Visas for Spain

Visas for Spain

*Please note this information is correct as of 2025. For further details, refer to the official website of the Spanish government: https://www.inclusion.gob.es/en/web/migraciones/vivir-en-espana

If you do not hold an EU passport, you may only stay in Spain (or the Schengen Area) for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. If you plan to stay longer — whether for lifestyle, retirement, or remote work — you’ll need a visa that permits extended residence.

Below are the main visa options for non-EU citizens looking to spend longer periods in Spain, especially relevant for property buyers.

Golden Visa (Investor Visa)

The Golden Visa offers a fast-track residency for individuals investing a significant amount in Spain — especially through real estate.

Key Criteria:

  • Minimum investment of €500,000 in Spanish property (can be spread across multiple properties)
  • The property must be purchased without a mortgage on the first €500,000
  • You may also qualify by investing in Spanish companies, funds, or government bonds

Benefits:

  • Allows you and your dependents to live and work in Spain
  • Provides visa-free access to the Schengen Area
  • You’re not required to become a tax resident (unless spending more than 183 days in Spain per year)
  • Application can be made while in Spain

Requirements:

  • Valid passport
  • Private health insurance
  • Clean criminal record
  • Proof of investment

Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)

The Non-Lucrative Visa is for individuals with a stable, passive income — such as pensions, rental income, or investments — who are not planning to work in Spain.

Who It’s For:

  • Retirees or financially independent individuals
  • Those not planning to work or earn income from Spain

Key Points:

  • You cannot work for a Spanish company under this visa
  • After one year, you may apply to switch to a work visa if you find employment
  • Application must be made from your home country (UK applicants must use one of the Spanish Consulates in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh)

2025 Minimum Income Requirements (Indicative):

  • Individual: ~€2,400/month or €28,800/year
  • Couple: ~€3,000/month or €36,000/year
  • Per dependent child: ~€600/month or €7,200/year

(Figures are based on IPREM and are updated annually.)

Other Requirements:

  • Private Spanish health insurance
  • Proof of regular income (not just savings)
  • Clean criminal record (last 5 years)
  • Translated and legalised documentation

Digital Nomad Visa (Remote Work Visa)

Launched in 2023 as part of Spain’s Startup Law, the Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers and freelancers to legally live and work in Spain while employed by non-Spanish companies.

Eligibility:

  • Must work for a non-EU/EEA company, or have clients primarily outside Spain (max. 20% of income from Spanish sources)
  • Must have worked with your current employer (or clients) for at least one year
  • Provide proof that your job can be done remotely
  • Hold a relevant university degree or at least 3 years of industry experience
  • No criminal record (past 5 years)
  • Private health insurance

Minimum Income Requirement:

  • Main applicant: €2,160/month or €25,920/year
  • Additional income required per dependent

Application:

  • Can be submitted via the Spanish Consulate in your home country or within Spain (in-country applications tend to be quicker and more flexible)

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