Non-Lucrative Visa Spain: Next Destination, Spain

The latest data published by the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration reveal that a total of 469,955 visas were issued in Spain, of which 70% (328,165) corresponded to short-term visas and 30% (140,447) to long-term visas. Compared to the previous year, the total number of visas issued increased by 24%.

There are already many people who decide to start a second life in the Iberian Peninsula and the vast majority follow the same path: the non-lucrative visa. Introduced in Spain in 2013, this visa allows non-EU citizens (who are not citizens of the EU, EEA or Switzerland) to reside in the country for an initial period of one year for non-profit purposes, such as studying, conducting research, receiving medical treatment, etc.

In today's article you will learn all the details about this "passport" to live in the country of good weather, traditions and culture. The country where the sun shines for more than 300 days.

This Non-Lucrative Visa could be made for you

The profile of people applying for the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain can vary widely, as this visa is available to any non-EU citizen who meets the requirements established by the Spanish authorities.

However, in general, people tend to be:

Retirees or people who have reached retirement age and wish to spend some time in Spain.
People who wish to study in Spain and need a visa to reside legally in the country.
Entrepreneurs who wish to develop a business in Spain without the need to work in a company.
People who wish to temporarily retire from their work and enjoy the culture and lifestyle in Spain.
People who need specialized medical care or medical treatment in Spain.

In addition, it allows you to reside in Spain, but does not allow you a professional activity or employment. If you want to spend more than half a year in Spain, a Non-Lucrative Visa is a good option to formalize your residence.

What are the requirements for Non-Lucrative Visa applicants?

As we have mentioned before, visas in Spain are increasing thanks to the quality of life in the country. But, anybody who decides to have a second residence in the country, has to meet a series of requirements that are essential for this to be approved.

Valid passport: The applicant must have a valid and current passport.
No criminal record: The applicant must not have a criminal record in Spain or any other country where he/she has previously lived.
Sufficient financial means: The applicant must demonstrate that he/she has sufficient financial means to support him/herself during the period of stay in Spain without the need to work. Currently, an amount of at least 2,259.60 euros per month is required. Likewise, to prove that you have the financial means to live in Spain, you can use any means admitted by law. In this case, you can provide a bank statement or any other document.
Medical insurance: The applicant must have medical insurance valid in Spain.
No entry ban in Spain: The applicant must not have been banned from entering Spain or any other country of the Schengen Area.
Medical certificate: The applicant must present a medical certificate certifying that he/she does not suffer from any disease that could have serious public health repercussions.

The step-by-step on how to apply for it

To apply for a Non-Lucrative Visa Spain, you must make an appointment at the Spanish consulate in the country where you reside. It is important to do this in advance, as the waiting time can be long in countries with a high volume of visa applications to Spain.

Once you have requested the appointment, it is advisable to start collecting all the necessary documents to submit the visa application. You will need to attend an interview at the Spanish consulate where you applied and present the necessary documentation and pay the application fees.

The response process can take up to three months, although it is usually resolved within two to five weeks after the interview. If the application is approved and the residence permit is granted, you will have one month to collect the visa and three months to enter Spain. It is important to note that the entry stamp must be affixed upon entering Spain to avoid problems.

Once in Spain, you have one month to apply for the TIE card (Foreigner Identity Card), which you can do at the Immigration Office or at the nearest police station.

A visa designed to get to know and enjoy

The Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain offers numerous advantages that make it an attractive option for foreigners wishing to reside in the country.

Is an excellent option for those foreigners who wish to enjoy tourism in the country without working. This visa allows holders to enjoy an extended stay in Spain while engaging in tourism and leisure activities.

Spain is a country with a rich history and culture, so there are many things to see and do throughout the country. From visiting historical monuments, museums and art galleries to enjoying the local cuisine, nightlife and beaches.

In addition, other benefits include:

Residence in Spain: The Non-Lucrative Visa Spain allows the holder to reside legally in Spain for a specified period of time, usually one year (renewable).
Freedom of movement: Non-Lucrative Visa holders may travel in and out of Spain without restrictions while within the valid period of their visa.
Non-profit activities: With this visa, holders may engage in non-profit activities in Spain, such as study, research, tourism, etc.
Family reunification: If the visa holder has family members who wish to join him/her in Spain, they can do so through a family reunification visa.
Access to medical care: Non-Lucrative Visa holders can access the public health care system in Spain.
Visa Renewal: If the visa holder meets the requirements, he/she can renew his/her Non-Lucrative Visa and remain in Spain on a continuous basis.
Study: It opens the doors to study in the country. In addition, as the internships are educational in nature, you can also do them even if you are paid for them.

Taxes and Non-Lucrative Visa Spain

Regarding the taxes derived from the non-lucrative residence in Spain, it is important to highlight that in order to be eligible for the renewal of the visa, it is mandatory to comply with a fundamental requirement: to spend a minimum of 183 days in Spanish territory. This fact implies becoming a tax resident and, therefore, being responsible before the Spanish tax authorities for the income obtained worldwide.

It is important to mention that it is not necessary to pay twice for the same income, since Spain has double taxation agreements that avoid double taxation. This means that if the visa holder has paid taxes in his/her home country for the same income, he/she can use this information to reduce or eliminate the tax burden in Spain.

In addition, there are two other cases in which tax will be paid in Spain: profits obtained from investments and income associated with the purchase and sale of real estate. In both cases, the corresponding tax rates are applied according to Spanish tax laws.

If you want to continue living in Spain, we will tell you how to renew it!

After one year of residence in Spain with a Non-Lucrative Visa, it is necessary to renew it. Once renewed, the permit is valid for two years. It is important to submit the renewal application within 60 days before and 90 days after the expiration date of the visa.

The requirements for renewal are virtually the same as those initially requested. However, it is important to note that there are some changes, for example, the amount required for economic solvency is doubled. This is logical since the renewal is for two years.

Steps to follow for Non-Lucrative Visa Spain renewal

Submitting the renewal application
Payment of fees
Gathering the required documentation
TIE Renewal
Appointment for fingerprinting

Once the documentation has been submitted, you must wait for the resolution of the Non-lucrative Visa Spain renewal, which can take between 1 and 3 months. If the renewal is approved, you must go to the Foreigners Office to pick up the new residence card. But, what happens if you are denied?

What can I do if my Non-Lucrative Visa Spain is denied?

The Non-Lucrative Visa Spain can be denied for several reasons, some of the most common are:

Non-compliance with the requirements: If the requirements established by law for obtaining the visa are not met, such as lack of documentation, problems in economic solvency, or not having medical insurance.
Criminal record: The application for a Non-Lucrative Visa may also be denied in case of having a criminal record in Spain or other countries.
Health reasons: In some cases, the denial of a Non-Lucrative Visa may be due to public health reasons, as in the case of having a contagious disease.

If your Non-Lucrative Visa Spain application is denied, it is important that you consult with an immigration attorney. Depending on the reason for the denial, you may be able to file an appeal for reconsideration or an administrative appeal to try to reverse the decision.

The importance of being well supported in this new adventure

Applying for a visa to Spain can be a complicated process and full of obstacles, especially if it is a long-stay visa such as the Non-Lucrative Visa. In this context, enlisting the help of an international immigration lawyer is essential to maximize the chances of success in the visa application.

International immigration Lawyer: The right choice

An international immigration lawyer is familiar with the requirements and procedures necessary to obtain a visa for Spain, which can expedite the application process and reduce the possibility of errors that may delay or even deny the application.

In the event that the application is denied, they can represent the applicant in administrative or judicial appeals to try to reverse the decision.

On the other hand, a lawyer specialized in international immigration can expedite the visa application process, avoiding delays and errors that may generate additional costs and loss of time.

There is a large pool of professional international lawyers in Spain. However, there is one firm that stands out for its professionalism and its vocation for the profession. Pellicer & Heredia have established themselves as a reference for all those who wish to apply for or renew their visa.

In addition, you can find them in one of the most wonderful areas of the country: the Costa Blanca. Located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, it has become the best area to start a second life as a retiree or for tourism.

As you have seen, the Non-Lucrative Visa is one of the best options to start a second life in a country like Spain. Spain is a country that stands out for its quality of life for expatriates, occupying a prominent position in world rankings, especially in terms of customs and family life.

Retirees and people who want to enjoy tourism in a prolonged way and having a second home on the Mediterranean coast opt for this visa. And you, are you ready to pack your bags and enjoy?

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