Changes to Spain’s Non-Lucrative Scheme
In the last three weeks changes are becoming apparent since the reform to Spain’s non-lucrative Visa legislation with effect from 20th May 2025. We are not just referring to the two year renewal periods and the requirement to have spent more than 183 days per calendar year in Spain to qualify.
What are the changes?
Financial Requirements
If you are thinking of applying, or in the process of applying for the non lucrative visa (NLV), please be aware the Spanish Consulate in Manchester are now strictly adhering to the new legislation. You must show the year-end balances as of December 31 of the year, together with the average balance for the preceding twelve months. We suspect the other two Spanish Consulates may adopt the same approach soon, although there is no clear evidence of this yet.
Visa Approval
The second change is the visa approval itself, which is affixed in your passport. It is now valid for 365 days, rather than 3 months. This is great news – especially if you experience any unexpected delays with your planned move date to Spain. It provides more flexibility, as previously once the three months expired, you had to restart the application.
Those trying to juggle a UK property sale and timing to apply for the non-lucrative visa will particularly benefit from this extended approval period if for example the property sale is delayed, provided you don’t need the proceeds from the property sale to fund your NLV.
Important reminder
Please remember: the date you enter Spain with the visa stamped in your passport becomes your first day of Spanish residency.
Your TIE residency card will be issued from this date, and you must apply for the TIE card within one month of entry into Spain. Spanish Authorities are tightening up on this. Of course, there can be valid delays, such as lack of available TIE appointments or delays in obtaining the “certificado de empadronamiento” from your local town hall (this certificate proves your address in Spain and is required for the TIE appointment). Still, it’s important to make every effort to complete the TIE process promptly.
Finally, remember that successful visa approval depends on accurate preparation of your documentation and timing, and working with a professional who handles this process daily and understands the requirements thoroughly.
For more information about our services and to contact our dedicated expert Residency Team, please contact My Lawyer in Spain’s specialist residency department.
