How to Renew Your Spain Non-Lucrative Visa in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re already living in Spain, the time will come when you need to think about your Spain Non-Lucrative Visa renewal. As your initial one-year permit nears its expiration, taking the right steps now is key to continuing your life under the Mediterranean sun, without interruption.

For non-EU citizens who want to keep living in Spain without taking on local employment, whether retired, working remotely, or financially independent, renewal is essential to protect your legal status and stay on track with your long-term plans.

This blog walks you through the non-lucrative visa renewal process in Spain, from updated financial requirements and necessary documents to key deadlines and how to avoid common mistakes.

Who Needs to Renew a Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain and When?

If you’re a non-EU citizen living in Spain on a Non-Lucrative Visa looking to stay beyond the initial one-year period, renewal is essential. If you reside in Spain with a Non-Lucrative visa, your first renewal will grant a two-year residency, followed by a second two-year renewal, and eventually, the opportunity for long-term residency.

You can apply for renewal within 60 days before your current permit expires and no later than 90 days after. However, starting early is highly recommended to avoid complications, especially if documents need to be updated or translated.

Unlike your initial visa application (which happens from your home country), if you want to renew, your application must be submitted from within Spain. You will file the application with the Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería) in the province where you reside.

Being proactive with your renewal is essential to ensure uninterrupted residency and sets you up for long-term stability in Spain.

Curious how this works? Our Spain Non-Lucrative Visa service page has the full eligibility checklist plus expert tips.

How to Renew a Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain

Renewing your Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain involves a clear step-by-step process, but it’s crucial to get every detail right to avoid delays or rejection.

Step-by-Step Spain Non-Lucrative Visa Renewal Process

1. Gather Your Documents
   • This includes updated proof of sufficient financial means, valid health insurance, proof of address (padron), a valid passport, and a copy of your current residency card (TIE). We’ll detail these requirements in the next section.
2. Fill Out the Renewal Form (EX-01)
   • This is the official form used for renewing a non-lucrative residence permit. It must be filled out in Spanish and signed.
3. Pay the Renewal Fee (Model 790, Code 052)
   • The renewal application has a government fee that must be paid and submitted with your application.
4. Submit Your Application
   • You can submit your application online or in person at your local immigration office (Oficina de Extranjería).
5. Await Approval
   • Processing can take up to three months, during which your stay remains legal. You’ll receive a resolution notice (resolución) once your application is approved.
6. Renew Your TIE (Foreigner Identity Card)
   • After approval, you’ll book an appointment to update your TIE at the nearest police station (Policía Nacional). This includes fingerprinting and receiving a new residency card valid for 2 years.

Online vs. In-Person Submission

• Online:
  • Submitting through Spain’s electronic platform (Mercurio) is faster and allows for easier tracking. You’ll need a digital certificate or a representative (like a lawyer) to file on your behalf.
• In-Person:
  • You can also file directly at the immigration office, but wait times for appointments can be long, especially in larger cities.

Whether you file online or in person, accuracy and preparation are key. A single missing document can set you back weeks, so many expats choose to work with a legal advisor to streamline the process.

Essential Documents for Your Spain Non-Lucrative Visa Renewal

When renewing your Non-Lucrative Visa, the Spanish authorities require updated documentation to ensure you still meet the conditions of your original visa. Below is the full checklist of what you’ll need to prepare:

Financial Means

• Bank statements showing sufficient funds or income to cover your stay.
  • Minimum: approx. €2,400/month for the main applicant in 2025; plus €600/month per each accompanying family member.
  • Or, €57,600/2 years for the main applicant and €14,400/2 years per each accompanying family member.
• Certified translations are required if the documents are not in Spanish.
• Proof of origin (e.g., pension, dividends, rental income) for funds held outside Spain.

Valid Passport

• Your passport must be valid for at least one year.
• Include copies of all pages, even the blank ones.

Current Residency Card (TIE)

• A copy of the front and back of your current Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE).

Health Insurance

• Proof of private health insurance from a Spanish provider (Must be full coverage with no co-payments or exclusions).

Empadronamiento Certificate (Padron)

• Issued by your local town hall (must be no more than 3 months old).

Application Form

• Form EX-01 – filled and signed.
• Model 790, Code 052 – proof of fee payment for the renewal application.

Submitting a complete, well-organized application with all required documents (as well as certified translations and apostilles, where necessary) is essential to ensure a smooth renewal. Incomplete applications are the number one cause of processing delays.

Non-Lucrative Visa Spain Renewal Requirements

To successfully renew your Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain, you must continue to meet the key criteria that made you eligible in the first place. Authorities will assess whether you still fulfill the legal and financial requirements for residency. Here’s everything you need to know:

1. Financial Means

In 2025, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient passive income or savings to support yourself without working in Spain:

• Main applicant: Approx. €2,400/month (or €28,800/year).
• Each additional family member: Approx. €600/month per dependent.

These figures are based on the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples) and may be adjusted yearly. Proof can come from pensions, dividends, rental income, or substantial savings.

2. Private Health Insurance

You must continue to maintain private health insurance with a Spanish provider. It must meet these conditions:

• No co-payments (sin copago).
• Full coverage in Spain.
• Equal to or better than the Spanish public healthcare system.

3. Proof of Residency in Spain

You’ll need to show that you’ve been living in Spain consistently. This is typically demonstrated through:

• Stamps on your passport.
• Utility bills, rental contracts, or bank activity within Spain.

4. Criminal Record

For renewals, you are not typically required to provide a new police background check, but in some cases, the police may request a new one. However, if you have been convicted of any crimes during your stay, this can impact your renewal eligibility.

Meeting these core requirements is essential for maintaining your legal residency status in Spain. If you’re unsure whether your current situation qualifies, a legal review can help identify any gaps before you apply.

Timeline to Renew Your Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain

Renewing your Non-Lucrative Visa can take time and requires both preparation and patience. Understanding the timeline helps you avoid last-minute issues and know what to expect during the waiting period.

When to Apply

You can submit your renewal up to 60 days before your current residency card expires and no later than 90 days after the expiration date. However, applying early is strongly recommended to avoid legal gray areas and travel disruptions.

Processing Time

Once your application is submitted, the standard processing time is up to 90 days. However, in many cases, resolutions may be issued in 30–60 days, depending on the workload of your local immigration office (Extranjería).

Can You Travel During Renewal?

Yes, but with some limitations. As long as you submit your application before your current TIE expires, you are considered to be in an “extended legal stay” period. You will receive a proof of submission document (resguardo), which you must carry with your expired TIE if traveling.

Traveling outside Spain during this period can be risky, especially if you need to re-enter the Schengen Zone. If you plan to leave the Schengen area, you must request a return authorization. This document allows you to re-enter Spain only, as it’s valid solely before Spanish authorities and does not guarantee entry through other Schengen countries.

Staying ahead of deadlines and understanding your rights while waiting ensures a smoother renewal and helps avoid complications, especially when it comes to international travel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Renewing your Spain Non-Lucrative Visa is a manageable process as long as you avoid the most common errors. Even a small oversight can lead to delays or even rejection.

Submitting Expired Documents

One of the most frequent mistakes is using outdated or expired paperwork, especially when it comes to financial statements, insurance certificates, or criminal background checks. All documents must be current and valid at the time of submission, often no older than 90 days.

Choosing the Wrong Submission Method

Spain offers both in-person and online renewal options, but not every applicant is eligible to file digitally. If you attempt to renew online without a digital certificate or present incomplete documents in person, your application could be rejected outright. Always check the requirements of your local Extranjería office.

Ignoring Professional Help

Many applicants assume the renewal will be simpler than the initial application and skip legal review. But regulations evolve, and what worked before may not meet 2025 standards.

To avoid delays or rejections, have your renewal application reviewed by a legal expert. Contact the Lexidy team using the form below to get a free first consultation.

How a Lawyer Can Help Your Spain Non-Lucrative Visa Renewal

Renewing your Spain Non-Lucrative Visa might feel more straightforward than applying for the first time, but the legal and administrative hurdles remain. A lawyer can simplify the process, reduce risk, and ensure your renewal meets all 2025 requirements.

Legal Review of Your Renewal Package

A small error in your financial proof or insurance documentation can delay your renewal or trigger a rejection. A lawyer will review your full application, flag issues before submission, and make sure your documents comply with the latest standards set by Spanish immigration authorities.

Assistance for Spouses and Dependents

If you’re renewing as a family unit, your lawyer can coordinate all dependent applications and ensure that supporting documents (marriage and birth certificates, translated and apostilled) are in order. This is especially valuable if family members have entered Spain separately or hold different documentation.

Avoiding Rejection and Unnecessary Delays

With processing times often stretching over several weeks, a mistake can cost you months or force you to restart the process. Legal support reduces the chance of errors and helps handle communication with immigration officials if issues arise.

With the right legal guidance, your renewal can be smooth, secure, and successful.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa Renewal

Where can I renew my Spain Non-Lucrative Visa?

You must renew your Non-Lucrative Visa from within Spain during the 60-day window before your current card expires.

How many times can I renew the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa?

You can renew after the first year for 2 years, and then renew once more for another 2 years. After five years in total, you can apply for long-term residency.

Does it lead to PR or citizenship?

Yes, after 5 years, you may qualify for permanent residency, and after 10 years of legal residence, you may be eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship, depending on your nationality.

Ready to Renew Your Spain Non-Lucrative Visa?

Renewing your Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does require careful timing, complete documentation, and full compliance with Spain’s residency rules. Whether you’re renewing for the first time or preparing for long-term residency, getting it right is essential to continue enjoying life in Spain without interruption.

For peace of mind and personalized support, we recommend booking a legal consultation to review your renewal strategy and documents. Explore our Spain Non-Lucrative Visa service page or fill out the form below to book a call with our team today.