Live in Spain Without Working
Start Your New Life in Spain with Expert Guidance from Compass Service Limited
Dreaming of living in Spain while enjoying its exceptional lifestyle, pleasant climate, and rich culture? The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) allows eligible non-EU nationals to legally reside in Spain without undertaking employment or business activities within the country.
At Compass Service Limited, we provide comprehensive support throughout your application process—from your initial eligibility assessment to document preparation and post-arrival guidance.
What is the Spain Non-Lucrative (NLV) Visa?
The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) is a long-term residence visa designed for individuals who have sufficient financial resources to support themselves without working in Spain.
This visa is particularly suitable for:
- Retirees
- Individuals with passive income
- Investors
- Remote income earners who qualify under NLV requirements
- Families seeking a high-quality European lifestyle
- People planning to relocate before applying for another residence pathway
The initial residence permit is generally granted for one year and may be renewed, eventually allowing eligible applicants to apply for long-term residency after meeting the legal residence requirements.
Who Can Apply?
You may qualify if you:
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen
- Have sufficient financial means to support yourself and your family
- Can obtain comprehensive private health insurance valid in Spain
- Have no serious criminal record
- Meet the medical and documentation requirements
- Intend to live in Spain without carrying out employment or professional activities
Key Benefits of the Spain Non-Lucrative (NLV) Visa
Live Legally in Spain
Enjoy legal residency in one of Europe’s most attractive destinations.
Family Inclusion
Your spouse, dependent children, and eligible family members may apply together.
Schengen Travel
Travel freely throughout the Schengen Area while maintaining your Spanish residency obligations.
Pathway to Long-Term Residence
Eligible residents may progress toward long-term residency after maintaining legal residence in Spain.
Exceptional Lifestyle
Experience Spain’s Mediterranean climate, healthcare system, culture, cuisine, education, and relaxed pace of life.
Education Opportunities
Children can attend schools in Spain, and residents may pursue educational opportunities.
Financial Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves without working in Spain.
The required amount is based on Spain’s official IPREM index and may change periodically. Additional financial requirements apply for accompanying family members.
Our consultants will help you understand the latest financial thresholds applicable to your application.
Documents Commonly Required
Depending on your personal circumstances, documents typically include:
- Valid passport
- Visa application forms
- Passport photographs
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Private health insurance
- Criminal record certificate
- Medical certificate
- Proof of accommodation (where applicable)
- Supporting documents for accompanying family members
Some documents may require legalization, apostille, or certified translation depending on your country of residence.
Our Spain NLV Services
Compass Service Limited offers complete end-to-end support.
Eligibility Assessment
We carefully evaluate your profile before beginning the application.
Personalized Documentation Checklist
We Prepare a customized document list based on your circumstances.
Document Review
Our experts verify every document before submission to minimize delays.
Application Guidance
We assist with completing application forms and preparing supporting documentation.
Appointment Support
Guidance for booking and attending your visa appointment.
Family Applications
Assistance for spouses and dependent family members applying together.
Post-Approval Guidance
Support regarding your relocation to Spain and the next steps after visa approval.
Why Choose Compass Service Limited?
Experienced Immigration Consultants
Our team understands the complexities of international residency applications and provides practical, client-focused guidance.
Personalized Service
Every applicant’s circumstances are different. We create a tailored strategy based on your goals.
Transparent Process
We explain every step clearly, helping you understand timelines, documentation, and legal requirements.
Dedicated Client Support
From your first consultation until your application journey is complete, our team remains available to answer your questions.
Application Process
Step 1
Book a Consultation
Step 2
Eligibility assessment
Step 3
Receive your personalized document checklist.
Step 4
Prepare and verify your documents.
Step 5
Submit your visa application through the appropriate Spanish authority.
Step 6
Receive your decision and prepare for your move to Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work with the Non-Lucrative Visa?
No, this visa does not allow you to be employed or self-employed in Spain; however, if you get a job offer, you can for a modification to work residency, after complying with the NLV for a full year.
Can I buy a property in Spain?
Yes, this residency allows you to purchase properties and even invest in Spain.
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes, you can include your spouse, civil registered partner, children (minors) or dependents.
Can I submit this application from Spain?
No, this residency has the particularity that it can only be presented at the Spanish Consulate of your country of legal residence or your country of origin.
Once my visa is granted, how long do I have to enter Spain?
You have 90 days to enter Spanish territory from the time the visa is granted, so it is key to be prepared to continue with Phase 2 of the process once you enter Spain.
Is this residency renewable?
Yes, first for 2 years and then for another 2 years, until obtaining the long-term residence; it is essential that for the renewal we prove that we continue to have sufficient economic means and that we demonstrate effective permanence in Spain; that is to say, to have been in Spain for more than 184 days.
Can I apply for Spanish nationality with this visa?
Yes, the time of residence with this visa counts towards Spanish nationality by residence.