Residence permit in Spain

Residence permits in Spain. The main options

To stay in Spain for longer than a visa allows, a foreigner needs to obtain a residence permit. The basis remains the same: the law “On the Rights and Freedoms of Foreigners in Spain and Their Social Integration”. Since 20 May 2025 a new regulation has applied to it, so some of the information you can find online is already out of date.

There are several types of residence permit, and the right one depends on your situation.

Residence permit without the right to work (non-lucrative)

For those who can support themselves without working in Spain: through passive income or savings. You need to prove your income (its amount depends on the IPREM indicator and the number of family members) and where you will live: this can be property you own or a rental contract. You cannot work in Spain under this permit. It is usually issued for one year and then renewed. After five years of continuous legal residence you can move to long-term residence.

Digital nomad visa

For those who work remotely. It is best to check the conditions and the list of documents with a lawyer before applying.

Residence permit for entrepreneurs

For those who plan to open a business in Spain. You need a business plan describing the activity and economic forecasts, and the project must benefit the economy and create jobs.

Student residence permit

Issued for the duration of studies. You need documents confirming enrolment and proof of funds to live on. University students can now work up to 30 hours a week. For language courses the restrictions are stricter.

Family reunification

A person who already has a residence permit can obtain a permit for close relatives. The term of their permit is tied to the term of the main one.

Long-term residence

It can be obtained after five years of continuous legal residence in Spain. It gives access to work and business activity on terms close to those of Spanish citizens.

What to remember

Buying property and obtaining a residence permit follow different paths, so it is best to plan them together from the start. And before submitting documents, it is worth checking with a lawyer: the rules change, and what worked a year ago may no longer work.

The information is current as of October 2026.