Property News from Spain

If you’re planning to retire in Spain, one of the first questions you’ll face is whether you need a visa — and if so, which one. The answer depends mainly on your nationality.

• EU citizens do not need a visa to retire in Spain.
• Non-EU citizens, however, must apply for a residence visa as part of Spain’s wider visa system for moving to Spain.

For many non-EU retirees in 2026, the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) is the main and most appropriate option. It allows you to live in Spain long-term without working, provided you can support yourself financially.

This guide explains why the Non-Lucrative Visa is generally the retirement visa for Spain, who it’s for, what it implies in practice, and what to expect once you move.

Visa rules and residence requirements in Spain are set at a national level and applied through Spanish consulates abroad. While this guide reflects how the Non-Lucrative Visa is commonly used by retirees, official requirements and interpretation can vary by consulate and may change over time. For this reason, applicants are advised to verify current conditions through Spain’s official immigration authorities, including the Ministerio de Inclusión, Seguridad Social y Migraciones.

Is the Non-Lucrative Visa right for retirees?

The Non-Lucrative Visa is designed for non-EU citizens who want to live in Spain without carrying out any work or professional activity.

It is generally suitable if you:

• Are retired or financially independent
• Do not plan to work in Spain
• Intend to live in Spain for most of the year
• Can meet the financial and healthcare requirements

It may not be suitable if you plan to work, stay only short-term, or do not meet the minimum income thresholds.

For retirees who are also considering where to settle, the visa supports long-term residence across the country, from coastal areas to inland cities, including many of the most popular places to retire in Spain.

Read more at thinkSPAIN.com