Guide to Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)

The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) is designed for non-EU citizens who wish to reside in Spain without engaging in any work or professional activities. It's an ideal option for retirees or individuals with sufficient passive income.

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Overview

βœ… Processing Time: Up to 4 months, depending on the country of application.

βœ… Financial Requirement: Minimum of €28,000 per year for the main applicant, plus an additional €7,000 per dependent.

βœ… Residency: Initial one-year residence permit, renewable for two subsequent periods of two years each.

βœ… Citizenship Path: Eligibility for Spanish citizenship after ten years of continuous residence.

Key Requirements

Financial Documentation

Financial Documentation

  • Proof of Funds: Demonstrate sufficient financial means to support yourself and any dependents without working in Spain. This typically requires bank statements showing the required amounts.

Health Insurance

  • Obtain comprehensive private health insurance with full coverage in Spain.

Accommodation

  • Provide evidence of accommodation in Spain, such as a rental agreement or property deed.

Criminal Record Certificate

  • Submit a clean criminal record certificate from your country of residence, translated into Spanish and apostilled.

Medical Certificate

  • Present a medical certificate confirming the absence of any diseases that could pose a public health risk.

Step-by-Step Process

    • Gather all necessary documents, ensuring they are translated into Spanish and properly legalised or apostilled.

    • Submit your application at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country of residence.

    • Once approved, you'll receive a visa allowing entry into Spain.

    • Enter Spain within the validity period of your visa.

    • Apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) at the local immigration office within 30 days of arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions

    • No, the NLV prohibits any form of employment or professional activity in Spain.

    • Yes, spouses and children can apply as dependents, provided you demonstrate sufficient financial means for their support.

    • Yes, the initial one-year permit can be renewed for two additional periods of two years each, given that you continue to meet the requirements.

    • After five years of continuous residence, you may apply for permanent residency. After ten years, you may be eligible for Spanish citizenship, subject to fulfilling other criteria.

Been there, done itβ€”now let us help you

β€œIn 2023, we moved to Portugal to build a hospitality business called Yon Living, but the high fees and confusing process of securing a visa caught us off guard. The lack of transparency made things harder than they needed to be, adding unnecessary stress to an already big life change.

Determined to make the process smoother for others, we began helping our guests navigate the complexities of visas. Since then, we’ve quietly assisted hundreds of people in successfully relocating to Portugal, guiding them through every step with clarity and care.

Now, we’re opening up our expertise to everyoneβ€”not just our guestsβ€”making it easier than ever for anyone to call Portugal home. Whether you’re chasing new opportunities, seeking a fresh start, or fulfilling a lifelong dream, we’re here to help you every step of the way.”

β€” Ant and Tom, founders of Yon

Navigating the bureaucracy on your behalf with a proven process

Dealing with visa applications can be overwhelming, but we make it simple. Let us navigate the complexities, so you can focus on what truly mattersβ€”your move to Portugal.

Ongoing legal support

You will have access via email, chat & calls to our immigration lawyers throughout the entire process. Not just a 30 minute chat at the start.

Thorough document checks

We'll lead the flow. We will ask for, store and validate your documents ahead of your appointments to maximise your acceptance chances.

Consulate bookings

We will obtain your appointment at your local consulate, or VFS global at a day and time that suits you.

Admin

We will handle your application forms, motivation letters and correspondence with the consulate throughout the process.

Additional documents

Whether it be a registered lease agreement, your NIF, or setting up a Portuguese bank account. We are on hand to advise you the smoothest & safest route forward.

Appeals

In the event of any rejections, we will be quickly submitting appeals behind the scenes to get the process back on track.

What people are saying about us

Hear why individuals and companies worldwide choose Yon to manage their visa applications.

Jessica Dixon
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β€œMoving abroad seemed intimidating but Yon made it effortless. From start to finish, I felt supported, and their tech-driven approach simplified everything. Their community has been amazing too - like an instant family of fellow nomads!”

Mairi and Flora McCrone
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"Thanks to Yon, the complicated visa process became manageable. They answered all our questions and provided clear guidance every step of the way. Now, we’re living our dream life abroad.”

Jonny Cleaver
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"I had no idea where to start with my visa, but Yon guided me every step of the way. They handled the paperwork and legal stuff, leaving me to focus on my work and move. Highly recommended!"

Anita and Bella
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β€œYon turned what could have been a stressful situation into a breeze. They were knowledgeable, and made it easy to track the visa process simple. I couldn’t be happier with the resultβ€”visas approved for the entire family and a whole new adventure ahead."

Through our sister company, Yon Living, we've built a vibrant expat community. Join our buzzing WhatsApp groups for answers to all your questions and enjoy weekly events like supper clubs, coworking days, drinks nights, boat trips, and more.

Join a community who’ve already made the move

Get started with Yon, today.

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