If you’re a non-EU citizen looking to relocate or invest in the idyllic Costa del Sol, understanding your visa options is essential. This page explores three of the most common Spanish visas for non-EU citizens in 2026, so you can easily decide which is best for you.
Do non-EU citizens need a visa to buy a luxury property in Spain?
Non-EU citizens don’t require a visa to buy a luxury property; however, purchasing a home in Spain doesn’t automatically make you a resident.
The good news is that owning a luxury villa or apartment can strengthen your visa applications by demonstrating proof of accommodation.
Visa options for non-EU property buyers in Spain
There are several Spanish visas for non-EU citizens available, each tailored to different resident needs and intentions. Each requests all of the following requirements, plus others specific to each visa type:
- Be a non-EU citizen – These visas are specifically for non-EU citizens.
- Valid passport – It must be valid for the entire duration of the visa.
- Private health insurance – To cover all medical expenses needed.
- Medical certificate – Shows you don’t have diseases that are a public health risk.
- Have a clean criminal record – You will need to obtain a criminal background certificate from the countries you’ve lived in over the last five years.
- Proof of accommodation – You must show evidence of where you plan to live in Spain, which can include property purchase deeds.
Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
The Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa, often called the retirement visa, is a popular lifestyle-based residence permit for non-EU citizens who desire to reside in Spain for more than three months without working.
As its name suggests, those on a non-lucrative visa are forbidden from gainful or lucrative activity, such as working or conducting business in Spain.
This visa type is perfect for:
- Retirees with pensions
- Property owners in Spain
- Those living off savings or dividends
- Individuals on sabbatical
- High-net-worth individuals
Specific non-lucrative visa requirements:
- Proof of specific financial means – Through bank statements, pension income or rental income documents, you must show you can support yourself and any dependants. The minimum income requirement is based on the Indicador Público de Rentas de Efectos Múltiples (IPREM), which currently equates to €30,000 per year, and €7,500 per year for a dependant.
The initial visa is valid for one year and is renewable for two-year periods if you’ve spent more than 183 days per year in Spain. Plus, after five years, you’ll be eligible for permanent residency.
Digital Nomad Visa (DNV)
Ideal in the age of remote working, the Digital Nomad Visa offers non-EU citizens the freedom to live in Spain while working for a foreign company.
DNVs are typically processed quickly, and applicants may apply for an attractive low tax regime for up to six years, commonly known as Beckham’s Law.
A DNV is for:
- Remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies
- Entrepreneurs
- Freelancers
Digital Nomad Visa specific requirements:
- Meet the minimum income requirement – This is currently €2,650-€2,700 per month, or 2-3 times the Spanish minimum wage.
- Proof of remote work – Provide evidence of either a contract or clients for at least three months.
- Demonstrate a history of work – This includes professional qualifications, too.
The initial visa lasts for one year, with renewal available for up to five years.
Entrepreneur Visa
As you’ve likely guessed, an Entrepreneur Visa is intended for individuals looking to launch a business in Spain. Applicants have to demonstrate that their business venture will have a significant economic or innovative impact in Spain. The company must be innovative or scalable, create jobs, attract investment or contribute to the economy.
A Spanish Entrepreneur Visa is for:
- Investors launching operations in Europe
- Start-up founders
Entrepreneur Visa requirements
- A solid business plan – This must include investment needs, expected impact and its potential to create new jobs.
- Proof of financial means – You must show you have enough funds to launch and sustain the company. This can include personal funds or loans.
The duration of the initial visa is one year, but it can be renewed for up to two years depending on the outcome of the venture.
Update – The Golden Visa
The Golden Visa scheme, which granted residency with minimal stay requirements to those investing €500,000 or more in real estate, was withdrawn by the Spanish Government in 2025. So, this option will no longer be available to you if this was your preferred method for relocating to sunny Spain.
Why non-EU residents flock to Spain
Spain is hugely appealing to non-EU residents looking to relocate or invest, especially in prized locations along the Costa del Sol, which offers unparalleled scenic views, exquisite cuisine and stunning luxury properties.
Retirees can escape to a coastal residential gem like Sotogrande or a private hillside retreat in La Zagaleta, enjoying the favourable Mediterranean climate and 300+ days of sunshine per year.
Professionals and business owners can work hard and play hard, enjoying the luxurious lifestyle that coveted areas like Marbella and Puerto Banús offer.
Here at Beluxe Properties, our expert estate agents can assist you in finding your perfect Spanish retreat. From premium villas and apartments to quaint townhouses, our portfolio of private havens is extensive, so you won’t struggle to find your dream home.
Contact us today to start your property search.
Our team are here to answer all of your questions
If you have any questions about any of the properties listed on our website and would like to find out more, our team will be happy to help! Fill out the form and one of our team will be in touch ASAP, or contact us directly by phone or email.