☀️ Why So Many Foreigners Choose Spain to Retire
Spain is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for retirees — offering a Mediterranean climate, excellent healthcare, relaxed lifestyle, and relatively affordable living. But retiring in Spain as a foreigner requires careful planning, especially from a legal and tax perspective.
This guide explains everything you need to know to retire in Spain legally, including visa options, tax implications, property rules, and legal services that simplify the process.
🛂 Residency Requirements for Retiring in Spain
👴 Most Retirees Apply for the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
The NLV is ideal for non-EU retirees with passive income. It allows long-term residence in Spain without working.
Key requirements:
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Proof of sufficient income: ~€2,400/month for an individual
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Private health insurance (full coverage, no copay)
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No criminal record
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Proof of accommodation in Spain
✅ Valid for 1 year, then renewable for 2 years at a time. After 5 years, you may apply for permanent residency.
🇪🇺 EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens
If you’re from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland:
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No visa required
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You must register as a resident after 90 days
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Must show financial self-sufficiency and health coverage
🇬🇧 Retiring in Spain After Brexit
UK nationals must now apply like other non-EU citizens. Most use the Non-Lucrative Visa or explore Digital Nomad Visa options (if working remotely part-time).
💶 Can You Receive Pensions in Spain?
Yes — many countries, including the UK, USA, and Canada, allow retirees to collect pensions while residing in Spain.
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UK pensions can be paid into Spanish or UK accounts
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US Social Security payments are allowed in Spain
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Check with your home country’s tax office and pension agency
🏥 Healthcare Access for Retirees
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EU citizens: Can use the EHIC initially, then register for public healthcare
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Non-EU retirees: Must buy private health insurance (for NLV)
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After 1 year of residency, you may qualify for Spain’s Convenio Especial (public health scheme with a fixed monthly fee)
Spain has one of Europe’s best healthcare systems — and private coverage is often affordable.
🏡 Buying or Renting Property in Spain
You don’t need to own property to retire in Spain, but many retirees do. Legally:
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You can buy real estate as a non-resident
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There’s no minimum value required (Golden Visa was abolished)
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A lawyer can act on your behalf via Power of Attorney
🛡️ Due diligence, contracts, and taxes should always be handled by a real estate lawyer in Spain.
💰 What About Taxes?
Are You Taxed in Spain?
If you spend 183+ days/year in Spain, you’re likely considered tax resident. This means:
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Global income may be taxed in Spain
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Double taxation treaties often apply (e.g., with US, UK, Canada)
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Spain taxes pensions, investments, and rental income — but many exemptions apply
⚖️ Work with a Spanish tax advisor to structure your retirement income efficiently.
📑 Key Documents to Prepare Before You Retire in Spain
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Valid passport
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Proof of income or pensions
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NIE (foreigners’ ID number)
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Health insurance
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Criminal background check
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Legal documents translated into Spanish (if required)
🛡️ How We Help You Retire Legally in Spain
At Borderless Lawyers, we guide retirees through every legal step:
✅ Visa application support (NLV, Digital Nomad, etc.)
✅ Real estate purchase and due diligence
✅ NIE and residency registration
✅ Healthcare and insurance guidance
✅ Tax residency and pension structuring
✅ Wills and estate planning in Spain
📞 Ready to Retire in Spain?
We’ve helped hundreds of expats retire in Spain without legal stress. Whether you’re in the planning stage or ready to move, our multilingual team can simplify the process.
👉 Contact our retirement lawyers in Spain for a consultation today.