Sun-drenched afternoons in Andalusia or the vibrant city life of Madrid remains as popular as ever. For non-European nationals (such as citizens of the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia), the “how” of moving to Spain has shifted significantly as we enter 2026.
With the recent phase-out of certain investment routes and the adjustment of income thresholds, it is more important than ever to choose the right path. Here is the up-to-date landscape of Spanish residency for 2026.
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In this post we cover the following: (click any section to see its content)
Essential guide to Spanish visas for Non-EU nationals:
- THE DIGITAL NOMAD VISA (DNV) »
- THE NON-LUCRATIVE VISA (NLV) »
- THE GOLDEN VISA (THE END OF AN ERA) »
- STUDENT VISAS »
- IMPORTANT 2026 UPDATES YOU NEED TO KNOW THE ETIAS REQUIREMENT »
- CRIMINAL RECORD CHECKS »
- DIGITAL CERTIFICATE »
- WHICH PATH IS RIGHT FOR YOU? »
- ALL TYPES OF RESIDENCY AVAILABLE IN SPAIN »
- SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH A SOLICITOR »
THE DIGITAL NOMAD VISA (DNV):
Since its inception, the Digital Nomad Visa has become the “crown jewel” for remote workers. It is designed for individuals who work for companies or clients located outside of Spain.
- Who it’s for: Remote employees and freelancers.
- 2026 Financial Requirement: You must earn at least 200% of the Spanish Minimum Wage (SMI). For 2026, this is approximately €2,750–€2,800 per month (roughly €33,000 annually).
- The Perk: You may qualify for the “Beckham Law” tax regime, allowing you to pay a flat 24% tax on Spanish-derived income rather than progressive rates.
- Duration: 1 year if applied for at a consulate; 3 years if applied for while already in Spain on a tourist visa.
THE NON-LUCRATIVE VISA (NLV):
Often called the “Retirement Visa,” this is perfect for those who have the means to support themselves without working. Note: You are strictly prohibited from working (even remotely) on this visa.
- Who it’s for: Retirees or those with passive income (pensions, dividends, or rental income).
- 2026 Financial Requirement: Based on 400% of the IPREM.
– Main Applicant: ~€28,800 per year.
– Each Dependent: ~€7,200 per year. -
Condition: You must show a comprehensive private health insurance policy with no co-payments from a provider authorized to operate in Spain.
THE GOLDEN VISA (THE END OF AN ERA):
As of 2025, the Spanish government officially closed applications for the Real Estate investment route (€500,000) of the Golden Visa to address domestic housing shortages and other effects caused by this visa.
- Current Status: If you already hold a Golden Visa, you can still renew it under the old terms.
- New applicants must now look toward the Entrepreneur Visa or Highly Qualified Professional routes for similar benefits.
STUDENT VISAS:
If you’re looking to study, the Student Visa remains a highly accessible entry point.
- Work Rights: In 2026, students are permitted to work up to 30 hours per week, provided the work does not interfere with their studies.
- Post-Study: It is now easier to transition from a Student Visa to a Work Permit once your degree is completed.
IMPORTANT 2026 UPDATES YOU NEED TO KNOW THE ETIAS REQUIREMENT:
Expected to be fully operational by late 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries (like the US and UK) will need to apply for an ETIAS authorization before arriving for short stays (under 90 days). This is not a visa, but a mandatory security pre-screening.
CRIMINAL RECORD CHECKS:
All residency applications now require a criminal record check from every country you have lived in for the last five years. These documents must be:
- Issued within the last 3–6 months.
- Legalized via the Apostille of the Hague.
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Translated into Spanish by an official sworn translator.
DIGITAL CERTIFICATE:
Once you arrive in Spain, obtaining a Certificado Digital is no longer “optional” in practice. It is the only way to efficiently manage your residency renewals, tax filings, and local registrations (Empadronamiento) with the Spanish administration.
WHICH PATH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?:
Choosing the wrong visa can lead to costly delays or rejections. Whether you are a remote tech worker looking for the DNV or a retiree seeking the peace of the Costa del Sol, we recommend starting your application at least 4 to 6 months before your intended move date.
ALL TYPES OF RESIDENCY AVAILABLE IN SPAIN:
- Digital-Nomad visa Spain (Remote worker in Spain)
- Non-Lucrative visa Spain (Spanish visa non lucrative)
- Student-Visa Permit (Student-Visa & up-to 30 hours work per week)
- Self-Employed visa Spain (Self employed expats in Spain)
Please see-here our video-blog with options and legal-advice to obtain residency in Spain.
Remember that immigration procedures and immigration regulations change regularly, so it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest information from reliable sources. If you have specific questions or concerns about your situation, it’s advisable to consult with immigration authorities or legal professionals specializing in immigration matters, to do this, please click-here »
DO YOU REQUIRE ASSISTANCE TO APPLY FOR RESIDENCY IN SPAIN?
We are a Spanish Solicitor and assist our clients with all types Spanish legal processes.
Permanent residency is obtained after 5 years of Spanish Residency through Self-Employed Residency, Digital-Nomad, Non-Lucrative Residency or Golden-Visa. This followed by 5 years as a permanent resident in Spain and means you can then obtain Spanish Citizenship with a Spanish Passport.