Europe · EU · Schengen
Spain Residency
Multiple residency pathways — non-lucrative visa for retirees and remote workers, work permits for professionals, and investor routes for qualifying capital placements.
- Permit term
- 1 + 2 + 2 years
- Schengen access
- Visa-free
- Minimum stay (NLV)
- 183 days/year
- Path to permanent residency
- 5 years
- Path to citizenship
- 10 years (most cases)
About the program
Spain offers several residency routes for non-EU citizens. The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) suits retirees and remote workers with sufficient passive income. The Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) is designed for remote employees and freelancers working for non-Spanish clients. Work permits cover employment-based relocations.
Residence permits are renewable and build toward permanent residency at 5 years. Spanish citizenship typically requires 10 years of legal residence (with some exceptions, e.g. 2 years for citizens of select countries).
Available routes
Ways to obtain Spain residency.
Pick the path that fits your profile — investment, work, family, or lifestyle.
Route
Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
For retirees and those with sufficient passive income (no work in Spain).
Route
Digital Nomad Visa (DNV)
For remote workers and freelancers earning from outside Spain.
Route
Work permit
For sponsored employment in Spain.
Route
Family reunification
Join a Spanish resident family member.
Route
Student residency
For enrolment at a recognised Spanish institution.
Key benefits
What you actually get.
EU lifestyle
Access to Schengen visa-free travel and a strong lifestyle offer.
Flexible routes
Multiple pathways tailored to income, employment, or family situation.
Path to citizenship
Build toward permanent residency at 5 years, citizenship at 10.
Family inclusion
Spouses and dependent children join under most routes.
Eligibility
Who can apply.
- Non-EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen
- Proof of sufficient income or funds
- Valid private health insurance
- Clean criminal record
- Accommodation in Spain
Required documents
What we will need from you.
- Passport and biometric photographs
- Proof of income, savings, or employment
- Health insurance policy
- Criminal record certificates (apostilled)
- Medical certificate
- Proof of accommodation
How it works
Step by step, from first call to permit.
- 01
Consultation
Identify the right route and prepare your case.
- 02
Consular filing
File at the Spanish consulate in your country of residence.
- 03
Visa issuance
Initial long-stay visa issued.
- 04
Arrival in Spain
Enter Spain and complete registration.
- 05
Residence card
Obtain your TIE (foreigner identity card).
- 06
Renewals
Renew at 1 year, then 2+2, building toward permanent residency.
Common questions
About Spain residency.
- No — the Non-Lucrative Visa prohibits economic activity in Spain. Remote work for non-Spanish clients falls under the Digital Nomad Visa instead.
Other programs
Explore more residency options.
Ready to plan your Spain residency?
A free consultation to identify the right route and prepare a realistic timeline.