Frequently asked questions related to a Spanish Non Lucrative Visa
What is a Non Lucrative Visa?
The Non Lucrative Residence visa allows non-EU citizens to reside in Spain if they can support their lifestyle without working. This is called having sufficient economic means.
It allows the main applicant’s spouse and their dependent children to join them. The main ask is that the family has enough wealth to support their lifestyle. Also, the holder can travel in the EU’s Schengen area visa-free. So you can enjoy tourism throughout most of Europe.
It is issued for a year and is renewable for a two-year period. The permit holder only has the right to move to Spain and does not have the right to work in Spain. It is strictly a Spanish residency visa.
Non Lucrative Visa FAQs
How long does it take to get a non lucrative visa?
The whole process takes three to four months. Though this can be longer for some embassies.
How soon can I apply?
You must apply within three months of your planned travel. You cannot apply earlier.
Can I work remotely for a foreign company in Spain under this permit?
Some consulates and embassies reject the application if you work remotely.
We can help you with the application process for Spanish work visas.
What happens if my visa application was denied?
You can reapply after fixing the errors. You can also appeal the decision with the Spanish courts but this process can take several years.
What's the difference between business residence vs non lucrative visa?
The Non Lucrative residence permit does not allow you to work in Spain.
The business activity residence permit allows you to work in Spain as:
- a self-employed person
- or as an administrator for your Spanish company
We can help you apply for a work and residence visa.
Is it possible to apply for a joint non lucrative visa together with a partner?
Your family can apply with you. You need to show that they can financially support themselves. You will need to provide extra documentation such as marriage or birth certificates.
Unmarried partners who can prove a long-term relationship can also apply as dependants.
My non lucrative visa application was denied, why?
The most common reason is for not showing sufficient funds to support themselves. The conditions vary depending on the autonomous community or Consulate.
Our immigration attorneys work with appeals and can position your resubmission for success. Lexidy’s lawyers will even assist with court action to overcome rejections.
We can also prepare you for any visa interviews.
What taxes are due with a non lucrative visa?
This visa is a residence card. The holder is to reside in Spain for at least 183 days a year. However, this also meets the threshold for becoming a Spanish tax resident. So you will pay income tax on your worldwide income.
This includes rental income and profits from investments, which also attract capital gains tax. Our team of tax lawyers can help you understand your tax requirements.
How can a lawyer help with the Non Lucrative Visa in Spain?
We can put you in touch with partners such as insurance companies or sworn translators.
We can assist in completing forms and reviewing documents to see if they are they correct.
Our lawyers speed up the process to get an appointment as they understand the needs of Spain’s Immigration Offices.
We can join you at the different appointments to solve any setbacks that may happen.
We offer full assistance in English, French, Portuguese, Greek or Italian.
The Non Lucrative Visa is not a work permit.