The Non-Lucrative Visa allows you to reside in Spain without performing any lucrative (paid) activity of any kind. It is for people who want to live in Spain using their savings, pension, or passive income — not to work, freelance, or be employed.
This is the single most misunderstood rule in the market. The Non-Lucrative Visa does not let you work for a foreign employer remotely, freelance, or perform any paid activity. If you need to work, choose the Digital Nomad Visa instead.
Figures per regulation 2026.1, effective from 2026-01-01. Next review: 2027-01-31.
Typically 3–5 months from document collection to card collection.
See the full timeline →No. The Non-Lucrative Visa does not permit any work of any kind — this includes remote work for a foreign employer, freelancing, consulting, or any paid activity. If you need to work, the Digital Nomad Visa or self-employed (autónomo) route is the correct option for you.
Any activity that generates income: employment, self-employment, freelancing, consulting, remote work for a foreign employer, managing a business for profit, and similar. Passive income from investments, pensions, or royalties is generally not considered lucrative activity, but you should confirm your specific situation with a lawyer.
The main applicant must show at least €2,400 per month (or the equivalent in savings covering 12 months). Each dependent — adult or minor — adds €600 per month. These figures are tied to the Spanish IPREM and reviewed annually.
Our free eligibility checker will tell you in 90 seconds whether this route fits you — or whether another fits better.
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