Colombian applicants · Kingdom of Spain
Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) for Colombian citizens
Residence visa for financially self-sufficient non-EEA nationals not planning to work in Spain.
- Processing time
- 1–3 months at consulate.
- Government fees
- Visa plus TIE fees (approximately €80 each, varies).
- Typical duration
- Initial 1 year; renewable for 2-year periods; leads to permanent residence after 5 years.
- Sponsor required
- No
- Leads to settlement
- Yes
Bilateral context
- Schengen Area
- Spanish ancestry eligibility
Consular processing: Bogotá
Tourist entry vs. this route
Yes — Colombian nationals can enter Kingdom of Spain without a visa for short tourism (typically up to 90 days), but tourist entry does not authorise the activity covered by the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV).
Visa overview
The Non-Lucrative Visa grants residence to applicants with sufficient passive income or savings who do not intend to work in Spain. It has long been the route of choice for retirees, high-net-worth individuals taking sabbaticals, and those relocating families to Spain ahead of long-term plans.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Sufficient passive income — approximately 400% of the IPREM (€28,800+ per year in 2025; verify).
- ✓Additional income for each family member (around 100% IPREM each).
- ✓Private health insurance covering Spain, no co-payments.
- ✓Applicant does not intend to work in Spain.
Common blockers
- !Income below 400% IPREM threshold.
- !Insurance policy includes co-payments.
Typical evidence
- ·Bank statements, investment portfolio statements.
- ·Pension award letter, if applicable.
- ·Private health insurance certificate.
Application pathway
Obtain NIE and arrange accommodation
Many applicants arrange housing before applying.
Assemble financial evidence
Show sustained income or savings above the IPREM threshold.
Apply at Spanish consulate
Submit within 3 months of intended travel.
Travel and attend TIE appointment
Fingerprints at Spanish police station within 30 days of arrival.
Renew and progress
Renew for 2-year periods; move to long-term residence after 5 years.
Other Kingdom of Spain routes covered for Colombian applicants
Digital Nomad Visa (Spain)
Residence permit for remote workers and international freelancers under the Startup Law (Ley de Startups).
Highly Qualified Professional (HQP) permit
Residence permit for highly qualified workers with a Spanish employment contract, processed under the Law 14/2013 regime.
Entrepreneur Visa (Ley 14/2013)
Residence permit for founders establishing an innovative business in Spain under the Entrepreneurs' Law.
Comparable routes in other destinations
Frequently asked questions
Are Colombian citizens eligible for the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)?+
Eligibility for the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) is set by Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migrations and is not nationality-restricted beyond the general criteria, though Colombian applicants may also have access to the following bilateral or treaty frameworks: Schengen Area, Spanish ancestry eligibility. See the criteria below for the published requirements.
Where do Colombian applicants typically file the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)?+
Bogotá. Specific intake (online portal, biometrics centre, or in-country lodgement) is determined by Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migrations — confirm the current intake channel on the primary source linked above before filing.
Do Colombian applicants need a tourist visa for Kingdom of Spain as well?+
Yes — Colombian nationals can enter Kingdom of Spain without a visa for short tourism (typically up to 90 days), but tourist entry does not authorise the activity covered by the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV).
Can I work on the Non-Lucrative Visa?+
No. The NLV explicitly prohibits work in Spain. Many applicants switch to a work or self-employment route after their first renewal.
Does the NLV make me a Spanish tax resident?+
Living in Spain for more than 183 days in a calendar year typically makes you a tax resident with global income taxed in Spain. Take specialist Spanish tax advice before moving.