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How To Get a Non-lucrative Visa for Spain as a British Citizen

With a wonderful climate, culture , and stunning views With stunning views, culture and a great climate Spain is certainly an appealing choice for a place to live and retirement. A lot of people in the UK have Spanish homes have plans for a possible retirement in the mild weather of Spain. But, following the Brexit departure on January 1, 2021 The Legal Regime for Foreigners is now in effect for British residents, and restricts the amount of time they are allowed to stay in Spain. To live in Spain or to retire in Spain, British citizens may apply for a range of visas. One of them is the non-lucrative residency visa.

In this article we will explain the meaning of a non-lucrative Visa and how one British citizen can get an unlucrative visa, and how it is different from that of the Golden Visa. We also go over the advantages of having one and how it could be the answer to retiring in Spain.

What is a Spanish non lucrative visa, and who would it be ideal for?

The non-lucrative visa granted to Spain allows non-EU citizens to reside in Spain provided they prove that they have enough money to provide for themselves and their family. Non-lucrative visas can be requested by citizens of third countries who want to live in Spain for more than 90 days, but are not planning working in Spain. This visa is ideal for foreigners who are planning to retire in Spain or just want to reside in Spain for extended durations, for instance, during the hot summer months.

What is the difference between a non-lucrative Visa and the Golden Visa?

The non-lucrative Visa differs in comparison to that of the Golden Visa in that a Golden Visa requires one of several types of investments in Spain The most popular of which is to purchase an investment property worth more than EUR500,000. Other investment options are based on commercial investments.

A non-lucrative visa for Spain is a great alternative for British retired residents or those who are not working since the UK is not a member of the EU and is not required to make any type of investment.

What is the length of time an unlucrative visa to Spain validfor, and can the visa be extended?

After you have obtained your non-lucrative visa It is valid for a period of one year. After that, you may request renewal for another time period of two years. after which your visa will be renewed for a further two years. After five years of legal residency , you can apply for permanent residence. Renewing a non-lucrative visa is required in Spain.

Learn more information about renewing your non-lucrative Visa below.

Non-lucrative visas require the holder to stay for 183 days in Spain every year to renew at the time of every expiration.

After five years of legal residency within Spain There is an possibility of applying for a long-term residency permit. After you have achieved permanent residency after 10 years of residence, you are able to later apply for becoming an Spanish citizen. In order to obtain Spanish citizenship means you must give up your UK citizenship.

What are the advantages of getting the Spanish Visa that is not lucrative?

The process of obtaining an Spanish visa that is not lucrative as an British citizen has the following advantages:

There is no requirement to purchase Spanish property

In contrast to that of the Golden Visa, there is no requirement to invest in the Spanish economy that is required to obtain this visa.

Request an individual or family visa

It is possible to include your spouse as well as other family members as family members of your immediate relatives are eligible to be added in your visa. Dependents of yours are able to attend classes or go to school while you live on a non-lucrative visa.

Work towards a work visa If you wish to

Non-lucrative visas have the ability to be changed to a working visa after an effective renewal following the initial year.

Remotely work for a company located outside of Spain

A non-lucrative visa permits the employee to work remotely for a business outside of Spain.

Potential to invest

There is a chance to purchase a house to make it available for rental.

Freedom of movement

Non-lucrative visa holders are able to travel without restriction in those who are not lucrative visa holders can travel freely within the Schengen Area, which is an area that is comprised of 26 European nations which have officially eliminated any border control and passports at their borders.

You can reside in Spain without the need to work within Spanish territory

Are you thinking of retirement in Spain? A non-lucrative visa is ideal for those who want to retire and settle in Spain since there is no requirement to be employed in Spain.

What are the documents required to be submitted for an unlucrative visa for British citizen?

British citizens who want to apply for a non-lucrative residence permit must meet the following conditions and present the required documents:

Passport that has at least one year of validity prior to the date of expiration.
A certificate proving that there is no criminal record , both in and UK and Spain Valid for 3 months.
You must have proof of funds. You must be able to prove that you have the financial resources to cover the costs of your stay for a year. In 2021, to qualify for monthly assistance, you need to be able to prove the amount of EUR27,115.20 on your bank account or have a minimum monthly income of EUR2,259.60. Each dependent have to contribute an additional EUR6,778,80 each year, or EUR564.90 each month.
Aren’t currently in an illegal (irregular) circumstance in Spain.
Health insurance that is sufficient.
Medical certificate that confirms that you are not suffering from any disease which could have severe health consequences for the public in line to the International Health Regulations of 2005.

The application process for a non-lucrative visa within the UK

Where can I apply

It is necessary to apply for the non-lucrative visa prior to you depart to Spain The application has to be submitted at the closest Consulate General for Spain located in the UK.

A request for a visa that is not lucrative must be submitted by the person who is seeking the visa.

The parent or guardian, or a legally accredited representative (in the most extreme circumstances) may apply on behalf of the minor.

What can you expect?

You have to be able to provide the above-mentioned documents as well as a formal interview will be conducted at the consulate , which will be used to make a final decision regarding the visa.

The consulate has then one month to either accept or deny your application. In the event that your request is accepted then you will are given a month after the date you received the announcement of approval to collect your visa from the consulate. You will also be given the NIE (Numero de identidad de extranjero) along with your visa.

Arriving in Spain

You must be in Spain within 3 months of the date of notification of the Visa’s grant.

You will have one month from the date of your entry to go to the Foreigners Office to request your TIE which is a card for foreigners commonly referred to as the resident card. In addition, within one month of your arrival, you will be required to register at the town hall that is corresponding to the municipality where you reside in Spain.

What is the process to renew your visa for non-lucrative work?

To renew your non-lucrative Visa You will have to submit the following documents:

Application Form EX01 (two copies).
The passport you have (valid for at minimum one year).
A copy of all the pages of your passport.
Your current Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjeros or TIE.
Fee Form 799-052 (paid with a stamp).
The registration of your address is in Spain ( padron ).
Health insurance that meets the regulations from the Immigration Office.
Evidence of a sufficient and steady income over the coming two years (monthly at more than four times the amount of the current calendar year’s IPREM for the principal applicant plus, one IPREM for each member of the family).

If your documents aren’t written in Spanish you must make use of a recognized official translation service that is deemed to be compliant with Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

What does the non-lucrative Visa contrast to Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa is another option to obtain a residency permit within Spain to British citizens. It’s a great alternative for entrepreneurs and investors who want to make significant investments in Spain such as setting up an enterprise as well as investing into existing companies in Spain. It’s also a great option for British citizens who want to expand their portfolio of properties in Spain or to purchase an extensive property in Spain.

What are the requirements to get the Golden Visa?

To be eligible for the Golden Visa, you need an investment amount equal to or more than EUR500,000 euros per applicant. It must not be affluent with any encumbrances , such as mortgages. In addition, you should be able to prove that the expenses of operating a home that is this high as well as all living expenses are paid for.

Other investment options to earn the Golden Visa include:

One million euros of shares of a company or the stock of Spanish capital firms that are engaged in actual business activities
One million euros of investments funds or closed-end investment funds, or venture capital funds created by Spain as well as one million euro of bank deposits at Spanish banks and financial institutions.

This could be a good choice for you?

It is possible to get the Golden Visa may be an excellent option when you own a home in Spain that is valued at the threshold of EUR500,000 for investment that is not encumbered by mortgages or any other financial lien.

It is also possible to work in Spain. Golden Visa also brings the benefit of giving the option to work in Spain because it offers the possibility of obtaining work authorization.

We can help you with your Spanish immigration lawyers

The Spanish immigration lawyers will advise and assist you throughout the process of submitting both visas. We’ll advise you on the validity of your application right from the beginning and make sure that all supporting documentation is correct and free of any complications to avoid rejection. We will be able to answer any questions you might have regarding the process of making an application.

Frequently asked questions

How do you have to stay in Spain as a non-resident?

Tourist visas allow you to remain in Spain for only three months. Ninety days is the longest duration you are able to legally reside in Spain without having to obtain an official residency certificate.

What is the minimum amount of income you require for retirement in Spain?

Living costs in Spain is fairly low, and you can comfortably retire in Spain with a budget of around $25,000 per year. But, this is subject to your lifestyle, and is dependent on the region in which you choose to reside in Spain.

What kind of visa do you require for retirement in Spain?

Based on their financial situation, British citizens wishing to retire to Spain typically apply for the Golden Visa or a non-lucrative visa to remain for a long time in Spain.

Are retiring in Spain is a good idea?

Spain offers many benefits for those who are looking to retire with a low cost of living as well as affordable healthcare, and a an extensive history and culture and has always been a top choice to retire in.

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