Introduction to temporary residence in Spain
Spain continues to attract people seeking more than a brief vacation. The climate is temperate, the pace of life encourages balance, and cultural richness draws individuals from around the world. For many, temporary residence becomes a structured way to integrate into Spanish society while retaining flexibility for the future.
Temporary residence offers legal stability without immediately committing to permanent settlement. It enables residents to work, study, or retire while experiencing Spain’s way of life.
What is a spain temporary residence visa
A Spain temporary residence visa allows non-EU nationals to live in Spain for more than 90 days and up to five years. Unlike a tourist stay, residence establishes legal status and confers rights, such as health coverage access and registration with local authorities.
Spanish law distinguishes clearly between “stay” and “residence.” A stay is short-term and flexible, while residence anchors the individual administratively and legally in Spain.
Who should consider a temporary residence visa
Retirees and financially independent individuals
Many applicants seek residence for lifestyle reasons rather than employment. Retirees or financially independent persons benefit from the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV), which allows residence without work. They must prove stable, external income and private health coverage.
Remote workers and professionals
The Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) is now the preferred option for remote workers. Crucially, the Non-Lucrative Visa strictly prohibits remote work, and applying for an NLV while intending to work online carries a high refusal risk.
DNV applicants must meet higher income thresholds linked to Spain’s Minimum Wage (SMI), whereas NLV applicants’ income requirements are linked to the IPREM index.
Family members of residents
Recent changes allow dependent children up to 26 years old, and dependent parents or stable partners can now join residents more easily. These updates make family reunification simpler for many households.
Types of spain temporary residence visas
Non-lucrative residence visa (NLV)
This visa suits retirees and individuals with passive or external income. Applicants must show 400% of the 2025 IPREM, i.e., €2,400 per month or €28,800 per year. For each dependent, an additional 100% IPREM (€7,200/year) is required. NLV does not allow work, including remote employment.
Digital Nomad Visa (DNV)
DNV allows remote work for foreign companies while living in Spain. Applicants must show at least 200% of the SMI (~€2,763/month). This visa is increasingly popular with professionals in tech, consulting, or freelancing sectors.
Work-based temporary residence
This visa is tied to an employment offer from a Spanish employer. The employer initiates the authorisation, and applicants can only work in the role specified. Renewal depends on continued employment.
Family reunification residence
Eligible residents may sponsor spouses, children (up to 26), parents, or stable partners. Approval depends on income sufficiency, accommodation, and genuine family relationships.
Special circumstances residence
Temporary residence may be granted in humanitarian or social integration cases. Previously, the Golden Visa (investment-based, €500k real estate) was included here. As of early 2025, the Golden Visa route has been closed, and investors must consider other pathways.
Duration and renewal of temporary residence
Initial residence is granted for 1 year. Under the 2024/2025 RELOEX regulations, renewals now extend to 4 years, rather than the previous two-year increment. Consequently, most residents reach the five-year long-term residence threshold after just one renewal.
Financial and income requirements
Spain requires residents to support themselves independently:
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NLV main applicant: €2,400/month (€28,800/year)
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NLV dependent: €7,200/year per dependent
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DNV main applicant: ~€2,763/month
Acceptable funds include pensions, business profits, rental income, or savings. Proof must be consistent, documented, and reliable.
Employment rights and restrictions
NLV holders may not work in Spain, including remote work. DNV holders may work remotely for non-Spanish employers. Work-based temporary residence explicitly authorises employment for the sponsoring company. Violation of these rules can jeopardize renewals.
Accommodation and address registration
Applicants must provide evidence of accommodation, such as a rental agreement or property deed. After arrival, registering with the local municipality via empadronamiento is essential. This unlocks access to schools, healthcare, and other services.
Health insurance and medical access
Private health insurance is mandatory for all temporary residence visas, providing full coverage in Spain. Once certain residence types mature, residents may access public healthcare depending on employment contributions or residency type.
Application process
Applications generally start at a Spanish consulate outside Spain. Some modifications or applications may occur within Spain depending on the legal route. Accuracy and completeness of documents are critical. Missing or inconsistent paperwork often leads to delays or refusals.
Digital submission is encouraged, and applicants receive a digital residence status, simplifying management and verification.
Common mistakes and refusal risks
Frequent errors include:
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Insufficient or poorly documented finances
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Using NLV for remote work (high refusal risk)
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Inadequate or unregistered accommodation
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Expired documents or inconsistent translations
Avoiding these pitfalls improves approval chances significantly.
From temporary to permanent residence
After five continuous years, residents can apply for long-term residence, gaining enhanced rights. Subsequent citizenship applications are possible, subject to language proficiency, integration, and legal compliance.
How LawSentis can help
LawSentis guides clients through every stage of Spain temporary residence applications. From choosing the correct visa to document preparation, sponsor verification, and regulatory compliance, we ensure a smooth process. Our expertise reduces risks, prevents refusals, and helps secure a legal foothold in Spain.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I travel freely in Europe on this visa?
Yes, you may travel within the Schengen Area, but remain limited to 90 days in any 180-day period outside Spain.
2. Does temporary residence make me a Spanish tax resident?
Yes, generally if you stay more than 183 days per year. NLV renewals require adherence to this rule.
3. Can I study while holding temporary residence?
Yes, studying is permitted if your visa conditions do not prohibit it.
4. Is language proficiency required?
No test is required for temporary residence, but Spanish fluency aids integration.
5. Can my children attend public schools?
Yes, resident children have full access to Spain’s public education system.
6. What happens if I stay outside Spain for long periods?
Extended absences may affect renewals or eligibility for long-term residence.
7. Can I switch visa types after arrival?
Yes. For example, switching from a Student Visa to a Work Permit is easier under the new law, with no long waiting periods previously required.
8. Do I need to renew health insurance annually?
Yes, continuous private coverage is mandatory for visa renewals.
9. Can temporary residence be revoked?
Yes. Providing false information or violating conditions can lead to revocation.
10. Is Spain suitable for long-term relocation?
Yes. Many begin with temporary residence and later transition to long-term residence or citizenship.