Retirement Visa in Spain: A Step-by-Step Guide to Secure Your Golden Years
Spain Retirement Visa
Spain’s sunny climate, rich culture, and vibrant lifestyle make it an ideal destination for retirees seeking to enjoy their golden years in Europe. In fact, Spain ranks as the 9th best country worldwide for retirees, according to the World Economic Forum. However, to make this dream a reality, non-EU citizens, including those from the UK and other countries, must apply for a Retirement Visa in Spain since they are otherwise limited to a maximum stay of 90 days within every 6 months.
Spain Retirement Visa allows you to reside longer, providing the perfect pathway to settle in this beautiful country. If you’re considering retiring in Spain, understanding the requirements and application process for this visa is essential.
What Is the Retirement Visa Spain? Everything You Need to Know
The retirement visa Spain, also known as the non-lucrative visa, is designed for non-European Union (EU) citizens who wish to retire in Spain without the intention of working or conducting business activities.
The visa is initially granted for a period of one year and can then be renewed for an additional two years and subsequently for another two years.
After this initial five-year period, you will become eligible to apply for permanent residency in Spain.
Once you have resided in Spain for ten years, you will be entitled to apply for Spanish citizenship, although this is not a requirement.
However, it is important to note that the Spanish retirement visa requires you to live in Spain for at least 50% of the year, which equates to 183 days precisely. This is a crucial point to consider, especially if you plan to spend extended periods visiting family back home.
The process is generally straightforward, but it is essential to meet specific requirements and complete necessary steps.
Are You Eligible? Spain Retirement Visa Requirements
To be eligible for Spain retiree visa, you typically need to meet the following criteria:
- Financial means. You must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself and any dependents without the need to work in Spain. Spain retirement visa income requirement threshold is determined by the Spain’s public multiple effects income indicator (IPREM), which is established annually by the government and serves as a reference for granting welfare or subsidies. For the year 2023, the Spain’s public multiple effects income indicator (IPREM) 2023 is set at €600.00 per month or €7,200 per year. However, to qualify for the retirement visa, you will need to show an income that is four times the yearly IPREM, amounting to €28,800 per year. For each additional family member, an additional 100% of the IPREM is necessary, which in 2023 is equivalent to €600.00 per month or its foreign currency equivalent. As an example, a retired couple would need to provide evidence, including bank statements, indicating a combined income of €36,000 per year or €3,000 per month.
- Health insurance. You are required to have a private health insurance policy that covers both yourself and any family members. This ensures you have access to medical care during your stay. The policy must be provided by a Spanish insurance provider and offer comprehensive coverage with no co-payments.
- Medical certificate. Another requirement is to provide an official medical certificate certifying that you do not have a disease or illness that could impact public health in any way.
- No criminal record. You must provide a certificate from your home country confirming that you have no criminal record from the last five years. These certificates must not be older than three months.
Please note that many official documents must be legally translated and apostilled by a notary. For more information and a list of the documents that require legalization, please refer to the Spanish government’s legalization and apostille page.
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Retirement Visa for Spain
Follow this detailed guide to navigate the retirement visa for Spain application process, from gathering documents to visiting the consulate.
Gather Documentation
Collect the necessary documents, including proof of income, private health insurance, and a clean criminal record certificate.
- Passport (minimum validity of 1 year)
- Passport photos x 2
- National visa form
- Birth certificate
- Form EX-01
- Fee payment form
- Healthcare insurance (with Spanish provider) or proof that you are eligible for state healthcare (for example S1 form for British pensioners)
- Bank certificate. Proof of financial means that satisfy the income requirements as outlined on this page.
- Criminal records – These must also be legalised and translated into Spanish. They must not be older than three months.
- Medical certificate. This should demonstrate that you do not suffer from any of the diseases that would prevent your entry into Spain. Certificates must be accompanied by a sworn translation into Spanish.
Payment of the relevant visa fee, which is payable at the Consulate on the day your application is accepted.
It’s important to note that some of these official documents from abroad may require legal translation and apostille certification to be recognized as valid in Spain. For more information about which documents need translation and guidance on this process, you can refer to the legalisation and apostille page on the Spanish government website, which can be switched to English. Additionally, you can find a regularly updated list of approved translators and interpreters in Spain.
Submit application
Visit your nearest Spanish consulate or embassy and submit your retiree visa Spain application. You will likely need to book an appointment.
Payment of Fees
The visa application fee can vary depending on your nationality and is payable at the Consulate on the day your application is accepted.
Wait for approval
You will typically receive a decision within 10 days, although this period may be extended if you are asked to provide additional documentation.
Collection of the retirement visa to Spain must be completed within one month.
In case your Spanish retirement visa application is declined, you will receive written notification explaining the reasons for the rejection. You have the option to lodge an appeal within one month of the decision.
Once approved you will then need to visit the consular office/embassy again in order to collect your visa document.
Travel to Spain
After obtaining your retirement visa for Spain, you have 90 days to enter Spain.
Benefits of Retiring in Spain Visa: Why Choose Spain for Your Golden Years?
Explore the advantages of retiring in Spain, including high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and cultural richness.
- High quality of life. Spain offers an excellent quality of life with its beautiful landscapes, cultural attractions, and a relaxed pace of living.
- Healthcare. Spain’s healthcare system is world-renowned for its quality and accessibility.
- Mild climate. The Mediterranean climate provides plenty of sunshine and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for retirees.
- Cultural richness. Spain’s rich history, art, cuisine, and traditions offer retirees a diverse and vibrant cultural experience.
- Ease of travel. Spain’s central location in Europe allows for convenient travel to other European countries.
Conclusion: Begin Your Journey to a Relaxed Retirement with the Retire in Spain Visa
The retired visa Spain is your gateway to a serene and fulfilling retirement in one of Europe’s most beautiful countries. By understanding the requirements and steps involved, you can start planning your dream retirement in Spain and embark on a new chapter of your life filled with culture, adventure, and relaxation.
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