Long Stay visa in Spain
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What is the Spanish Long Stay Visa?
Types of Long Stay Visa
Here is an overview of the main types of long-stay visas with specific requirements, including financial thresholds where applicable.
1. Student Visa
- Purpose: For individuals intending to study, complete training, or participate in internships.
- Financial Requirements: Generally, applicants must show sufficient funds to cover living expenses (often set around €600–€700 per month in some European countries) or have a scholarship covering these costs.
- Health Insurance: Private or public insurance covering the stay, often available through the educational institution.
- Additional Requirements: An acceptance letter from an accredited educational institution, proof of accommodation, and limited work permission (often up to 20 hours per week).
2. Work Visa
- Purpose: For those with secured employment, whether as employees, freelancers, or investors.
- Financial Requirements: Typically not required if a valid employment contract is provided, as income from the job should meet living costs. For freelancers, evidence of income over €1,500–€2,000 per month is often requested.
- Employer Documentation: The employer usually needs to provide proof of the job offer, a detailed contract, and sometimes labor market approval, showing the position couldn’t be filled by a local candidate.
- Health Insurance: Usually provided by the employer, although private health coverage may be necessary in some cases.
3. Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
- Purpose: Popular for retirees or financially independent individuals who won’t be working in the country.
- Financial Requirements: Applicants need to demonstrate at least 400% of the IPREM (Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator), which in Spain for 2024 is approximately €2,400 per month or €28,800 per year for the main applicant. Additional family members require an extra 100% of the IPREM per person, about €600 per month.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive private health insurance that provides full coverage without relying on public healthcare.
- Additional Requirements: No work commitment allowed. Proof of stable accommodation, such as a rental contract or property ownership, is often required.
4. Entrepreneur Visa
- Purpose: For individuals looking to establish a business, particularly an innovative or high-impact project.
- Financial Requirements: Sufficient funding to cover both personal living expenses and business startup costs. A minimum of €50,000–€100,000 in business funds may be expected, though this can vary based on the scope of the project.
- Business Plan: A detailed plan covering financial projections, business impact, innovation potential, and employment opportunities. Approval by a relevant economic or innovation body is often required.
- Health Insurance: Private health insurance for the applicant and any accompanying family members.
5. Golden Visa (GV)
- Purpose: For individuals making significant economic investments in real estate, companies, or government bonds, providing a residency pathway in exchange for financial contributions.
- Investment Requirements:
- Real Estate: Minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate.
- Company Shares: Investment of at least €1,000,000 in Spanish company shares or mutual funds.
- Government Bonds: Minimum €2,000,000 in government bonds.
- Proof of Source of Funds: Documentation showing that the investment funds are from legitimate sources, such as bank statements or property sales.
- Additional Family Members: Immediate family members can be included, with proof of relationship and funds to support each family member.
6. Family Reunification Visa
- Purpose: Allows family members of legal residents or citizens to join them.
- Financial Requirements: The sponsor must have a stable income to support family members. In Spain, the minimum monthly income required is generally the IPREM level (€600 per month), with an additional amount for each family member (approximately €150–€200 per dependent).
- Proof of Family Relationship: Marriage certificates, birth certificates, or other documents establishing family ties.
- Accommodation Requirement: Proof of suitable housing for the family, typically a rental contract or proof of ownership.
- Health Insurance: Private or public health coverage for each family member being sponsored, depending on their eligibility.
Each visa type has specific procedures and application steps, which may vary slightly based on the local consulate or embassy. For the most accurate guidance, it’s advisable to consult directly with the relevant consulate or immigration authorities.
Steps to Get the Long Stay Visas
1. Determine Eligibility and Choose the Visa Type
- Research Visa Types: Identify the visa category (e.g., student, work, non-lucrative) that best aligns with your purpose of stay.
- Review Eligibility: Confirm you meet specific financial, health, and background criteria for your chosen visa type.
2. Gather Required Documentation
- Refer to the specific documentation needed for your visa type. Ensure documents are recent, correctly filled out, and translated if necessary.
- Complete the Application Form: Download and complete the visa application form from the relevant consulate or embassy’s website.
- Health Insurance: Obtain private insurance that covers your full stay if required.
- Proof of Financial Means: Prepare bank statements, sponsorship letters, or investment documentation showing you meet the financial criteria.
- Other Documents: Prepare additional specific documents based on visa type (e.g., work contracts, business plans, acceptance letters).
3. Pay the Visa Application Fee
- Typical Fees:
- Student Visa: €60–€80 (€160 for U.S. citizens)
- Work Visa: €60–€120 (higher for U.S. and Canadian applicants, around €100–€200)
- Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): €80–€120 (€140–€160 for U.S. citizens)
- Entrepreneur Visa: €80–€120, with possible business registration fees
- Golden Visa: €500–€1,000 for the main applicant, €250–€500 per dependent
- Family Reunification Visa: €60–€80 per family member (higher for U.S. citizens, around €100–€150)
- Some consulates require payment in advance, while others collect fees at the appointment.
4. Schedule an Appointment at the Consulate or Embassy
- Many embassies require in-person applications. Schedule an appointment in advance, as wait times can be long, particularly during peak application periods.
- Visit the consulate or embassy’s website to book your appointment, or call if the website does not offer online booking.
5. Attend the Visa Appointment
- Bring All Required Documents: Original and copies of your completed application, passport, photos, financial proofs, and any specific documents for your visa.
- Submit Biometrics: Some consulates require fingerprinting or photos during the appointment.
- Interview: You may be asked questions about your reasons for applying, financial stability, and plans while in the country.
6. Wait for Processing
- Processing times vary by visa type but typically range from 1–3 months. Some consulates offer online tracking.
- If additional documents are required, the consulate will contact you, so it’s essential to monitor communications.
7. Receive Visa Decision and Collect Passport
- Notification of Decision: You’ll receive notification when your visa is approved, often via email or phone.
- Pick Up the Visa: Return to the consulate to pick up your passport with the visa stamped, or opt for mail delivery if the consulate offers this service.
8. Prepare for Entry and Register Locally
- Arrive within Visa Validity: Travel within the dates specified on your visa to avoid issues.
- Register Locally (if required): Many countries require you to register with local authorities (e.g., within 30 days of arrival).
- Apply for Residence Permit: For certain visas, such as work or non-lucrative visas, you may need to apply for a residence card within the country to extend your stay legally.
What documents do I need?
Student Visa:
- Acceptance Letter: From an accredited educational institution, detailing the program’s duration and level.
- Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements, scholarship confirmation, or a financial guarantor to cover tuition and living expenses.
- Accommodation Confirmation: Proof of housing arrangements, if not included in the school’s acceptance package.
Work Visa:
- Employment Contract: From a recognized employer, detailing the job title, salary, and length of employment.
- Proof of Qualifications: Diplomas, certifications, or credentials relevant to the job, sometimes with translations and certifications if needed.
- Employer Sponsorship (if required): For certain countries, the employer must provide sponsorship documents proving they could not fill the role locally.
- Work Authorization: Sometimes the employer must secure a permit to employ a foreigner, which may need to be submitted with the visa application.
Non-Lucrative Visa:
- Proof of Financial Resources: Bank statements or proof of regular income showing at least 400% of the IPREM (around €2,400/month or €28,800/year in Spain for the main applicant). Additional dependents require an extra 100% of the IPREM (€600/month per person).
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive private insurance that covers healthcare costs, including hospitalization, without relying on public funds.
- No Work Commitment Statement: Confirmation that the applicant does not intend to work during their stay.
Entrepreneur Visa:
- Detailed Business Plan: Describing the business, financial projections, innovation potential, and expected economic impact. It may need to be approved by an economic authority or innovation body.
- Proof of Financial Resources: Often around €50,000–€100,000, depending on the scale of the business.
- Recommendation Letters (if required): From business associations or relevant entities supporting your business initiative.
- Health Insurance: Private insurance covering the applicant and any accompanying family members.
Golden Visa:
- Investment Proof: Specific documents depending on the investment type:
- Real Estate: Deed of property showing a minimum €500,000 investment.
- Company Shares: Proof of €1,000,000 in shares or mutual funds.
- Government Bonds: Minimum €2,000,000 invested in government bonds.
- Proof of Source of Funds: Bank statements or documents proving that the investment funds are from legitimate sources.
- Family Members: If family members are included, documents proving family relationships (marriage, birth certificates) and financial means to support each family member.
- Investment Proof: Specific documents depending on the investment type:
Family Reunification Visa:
- Proof of Family Relationship: Marriage certificates, birth certificates, or other legal documents verifying family ties.
- Sponsor’s Proof of Residency: Residency or citizenship documentation of the family member you’re joining.
- Sponsor’s Financial Stability: Proof of stable income sufficient to support family members (e.g., around €600 per month for Spain, with an additional amount per dependent).
- Proof of Suitable Housing: Rental contract or property ownership to show that the sponsor has adequate accommodation for the family.
- Health Insurance for Dependents: Private or public health insurance for each family member being sponsored.
What taxes will you pay?
If you’re moving to Spain on a long-stay visa, your tax obligations will depend on your residency status, income sources, and specific visa type. Here’s a breakdown of the main taxes to expect:
1. Tax Residency Status
- Tax Resident: If you reside in Spain for more than 183 days in a calendar year, you become a tax resident and are subject to Spanish taxes on your worldwide income.
- Non-Tax Resident: If you spend fewer than 183 days in Spain, you’re generally considered a non-resident and are taxed only on income earned within Spain.
2. Taxes for Tax Residents
Income Tax (Impuesto sobre la Renta de las Personas Físicas, IRPF): As a tax resident, you’ll pay income tax on global income, including earnings, pensions, rental income, and investments.
- Progressive Tax Rates:
- Income up to €12,450: 19%
- €12,451 to €20,200: 24%
- €20,201 to €35,200: 30%
- €35,201 to €60,000: 37%
- €60,001 to €300,000: 45%
- Over €300,000: 47%
- Progressive Tax Rates:
Capital Gains Tax: Capital gains, such as profits from selling property or investments, are taxed at progressive rates:
- Up to €6,000: 19%
- €6,001 to €50,000: 21%
- €50,001 to €200,000: 23%
- Over €200,000: 26%
Wealth Tax (Impuesto sobre el Patrimonio): Tax residents with assets over certain thresholds are subject to a wealth tax, calculated on worldwide assets. Regional exemptions vary, but the national minimum threshold is €700,000, plus €300,000 for your primary residence. Tax rates range from 0.2% to 3.5%, depending on the value of assets.
Social Security Contributions: If you work or are self-employed in Spain, you must pay social security contributions, which provide access to Spain’s public healthcare, pensions, and other benefits.
- Employee Contributions: Typically around 6.35% of salary, with employers paying approximately 29.9%.
- Self-Employed Contributions: Self-employed residents (autónomos) pay around €300–€400 monthly, depending on income levels.
Other Taxes:
- Property Tax (IBI): If you own property, you’ll pay an annual property tax based on the cadastral value, set by the local municipality.
- VAT (IVA): Spain has a value-added tax on goods and services, typically 21% for most items, with lower rates of 10% and 4% for essentials.
3. Taxes for Non-Residents
Non-Resident Income Tax (NRIT): Non-residents pay tax only on income earned in Spain, such as rental income or profits from property sales.
- Rental Income: 19% for EU/EEA residents, 24% for non-EU residents.
- Capital Gains: Flat rate of 19% for EU/EEA citizens and 24% for non-EU residents on capital gains from Spanish property sales.
Non-Resident Property Tax: Non-resident property owners are subject to an additional annual tax, calculated as 1.1%–2% of the cadastral value of the property.
4. Special Tax Regimes for Long-Stay Visa Holders
- Beckham Law (Impatriate Tax Regime): If you move to Spain for work and qualify, the Beckham Law offers a flat 24% tax on Spanish income up to €600,000, with exemption from taxes on foreign income for up to six years. This regime is often available to foreign employees or business owners relocating to Spain.
5. Tax Filing Obligations
- Annual Tax Return: Tax residents file an annual tax return (Modelo 100) reporting worldwide income, capital gains, and deductions.
- Declaration of Foreign Assets: Spanish residents with over €50,000 in foreign assets must file Modelo 720 annually, listing bank accounts, securities, and property abroad.
- Property Taxes: Both residents and non-residents must file for property taxes if they own property in Spain.
Your tax liability will depend on your residency status, income sources, and deductions available under Spanish law. Consulting a tax advisor familiar with Spanish and international taxation can be beneficial, especially if you have complex income sources or foreign assets.
In conclusion, the Long Stay Visas in Spain are the perfect Visas for those looking to relocate to Spain, either alone or with family.
If you’re ready to start your journey in Spain or have any questions about the Long Stay Visas in Spain, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of lawyers is ready to assist you and provide the legal support you need to succeed.
How can a lawyer help me with the Spanish Long Stay Visas?
A lawyer can help you by providing legal advice and guidance throughout the application process. Some ways a lawyer can assist you include:
Understanding the eligibility requirements
A lawyer can help you understand the eligibility requirements, including the criteria you need to meet and the documents you need to submit.
Preparing your application
A lawyer can assist you in preparing your application, ensuring that all the required documents are included and that your application is complete.
Addressing potential issues
If there are any potential issues with your application, such as gaps in your employment history or criminal convictions, a lawyer can help you address these issues and present your case in the best possible light.
Representing you in appeals
If your application is denied, a lawyer can represent you in any appeals process and help you to overcome the reasons for denial.
Providing ongoing support
A lawyer can provide ongoing support throughout the application process, answering any questions you may have and keeping you updated on the status of your application.
If you are interested in obtaining a Spanish Long Stay visa, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
Our team of experienced lawyers is ready to assist you and guide you through the entire application process. Let us help you make your dream of living and working in Spain a reality.
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Why Spain?
Obtaining a Long Stay visa in Spain offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it provides legal permission to live and work in one of Europe’s most captivating countries, with its vibrant cities, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Secondly, the visa enables access to Spain’s thriving digital and tech ecosystem, fostering networking opportunities and professional growth. Lastly, the visa allows digital nomads to immerse themselves in the warmth of Spanish hospitality, savor its delectable cuisine, and explore its diverse regions while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.
- Cultural immersion
Experience the rich Spanish culture.
- Location
Explore Europe without visa restrictions.
- Stable economy
Spain has a stable and growing economy
- Delicious cuisine
Taste world-renowned Spanish food and wine.
- Affordable living
Cost of living is lower compared to other European countries.
- Healthcare access
Access to high-quality healthcare facilities and services.
- Skilled workforce
Spain has a highly skilled and multilingual workforce
- Travel Opportunities
Explore diverse regions within Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a long-stay visa?
A long-stay visa for Spain allows non-EU/EEA citizens to reside in Spain for over 90 days. This type of visa is suitable for purposes like studying, working, retirement, starting a business, or joining family members.
How long is a Spanish long-stay visa valid?
The initial validity depends on the visa type but is usually between 6 months and 1 year. After arrival, most long-stay visa holders need to apply for a residence permit to legally extend their stay in Spain.
Can I work in Spain with a long-stay visa?
Certain visas, like the work visa, permit employment in Spain, while others, like the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV), do not allow any employment. Be sure to verify employment restrictions based on the visa type you hold.
What type of health insurance do I need?
Private health insurance that provides comprehensive coverage is required for most long-stay visas in Spain. This insurance must cover the full stay without relying on public healthcare services.
How long does it take to process a Spanish long-stay visa?
Processing times generally range from 1 to 3 months, though it can vary based on the consulate and visa type. It’s recommended to apply well in advance to avoid delays.
What is the application fee for a Spanish long-stay visa?
Fees vary based on visa type and nationality. For example, student visas generally cost around €60–€80, work visas between €60–€120, and Golden Visas can range from €500–€1,000 for the main applicant.
Do I need to apply in person?
Yes, most long-stay visa applications must be submitted in person at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country of residence. You may also need to attend an interview and submit biometrics.
How can I maintain my visa status in Spain?
Certain visas, such as the Golden Visa, have flexible residency requirements, while others may require you to spend a specific number of days in Spain to maintain residency status. Always check the specific residency requirements for your visa type.
Can I change my visa type after arriving in Spain?
Changing visa types is generally possible, but it may require returning to your home country and reapplying. Some pathways allow you to switch (e.g., from a student visa to a work visa if you secure employment).
Can I bring my family with me on a long-stay visa?
Family members may be eligible to join you through the Family Reunification Visa, or as dependents on certain visas, like the Golden Visa. Each family member will need to meet specific documentation and financial requirements.
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