What Is The Minimum Income For Residency In Spain?

If you're planning to move to Spain and stay longer than 90 days, you'll need to apply for a residency visa — and that usually means proving you have enough income to support yourself. Whether you’re a retiree, digital nomad, or relocating with family, understanding the minimum income requirements is key to getting approved. Here's what you need to know for 2025 and beyond.

Why income requirements matter for Spanish residency

Most residency visa categories in Spain require applicants to demonstrate that they have sufficient financial means to live without becoming a public burden. This is particularly important for non-EU citizens, including British nationals after Brexit.

Income thresholds vary depending on the type of visa, number of family members, and whether you plan to work in Spain or not. Below is a breakdown of the key visa categories and their 2025 financial requirements.

Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) – Minimum Income for 2025

The Non-Lucrative Visa allows non-EU nationals to live in Spain without engaging in any local employment or professional activity.

It is commonly used by retirees and those with passive income or remote work for non-Spanish companies.

For 2025, the Spanish government has maintained the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples) at €600/month.

Applicants must prove they receive:

€2,400/month or €28,800/year for the main applicant (400% of IPREM).
€600/month or €7,200/year for each additional family member (100% of IPREM).

Example Income Requirements:

A UK couple would need:
– €28,800 (main applicant)
– €7,200 (spouse/dependent)
Total: €36,000/year

A family of four (two adults, two children):
– €28,800 + (3 x €7,200)
Total: €50,400/year

Documents accepted as proof include bank statements, investment reports, pension documentation, and rental income certificates. All documents must be legalised and translated if not in Spanish.

For those planning to relocate long term, the visa can be renewed at 1, 3, and 5-year intervals, eventually leading to permanent residency.

Digital Nomad Visa – Minimum Income for 2025

The Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers employed by companies outside Spain, or self-employed professionals with international clients.

Unlike the NLV, the DNV uses the Spanish minimum wage (SMI), not IPREM, as a baseline.

In 2025, applicants must show an income of at least 200% of SMI, which is approximately €33,130/year.

You’ll need to provide a valid employment contract or evidence of self-employment, proof of professional qualifications, and social security coverage (via Spain or a reciprocal country).

Self-Employed Visa (Autónomo Visa)

To apply for the Self-Employed Visa, you’ll need to show:

– A viable business plan
– Proof of clients, or projected income
– Financial means to support yourself while launching the business

No fixed income figure is published, but you should show access to funds comparable to those for the NLV (€28,800/year) or higher, plus startup costs.

Family Reunification – Financial Support for Dependents

If you already have legal residency and want to bring family members, you’ll need to meet income requirements based on IPREM thresholds.

The general rule is:
– 150% of IPREM for the first family member
– +50% IPREM per additional member

That means:
– 1 family member: €10,800/year
– 2 family members: €14,400/year
– 3 family members: €18,000/year

Tips for Approval

– Provide at least 6 months of financial documentation
– Exceed the minimum income where possible
– Avoid last-minute transfers to your account — show consistency
– Translate documents with a sworn Spanish translator
– Consider legal or immigration advice for complex applications

Final Thoughts

Getting residency in Spain is entirely possible — but meeting the income requirements is one of the most important steps. Whether you're applying solo, as a couple, or with a family, make sure your financials are clear, stable, and meet the threshold that applies to your visa type.

For 2025, the numbers are clear: €28,800 for the main applicant and €7,200 per dependent for the NLV, or approximately €33,130 for Digital Nomads. Prepare properly and enjoy the sunny life ahead.

Learn more about the non-lucrative visa for Spanish residency or explore our full guide to Spanish residency visas.

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