🛫 Retiring in Spain from Outside the EU? Here’s What You Need to Know
Spain is a top destination for retirement — even for those coming from far beyond Europe. But if you’re from a non-EU country like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, or Australia, there are key legal, tax, and healthcare differences you need to prepare for.
This guide breaks down what changes when you retire in Spain as a non-EU expat.
🛂 You’ll Need a Retirement Visa (Non-Lucrative Visa)
Unlike EU citizens, retirees from non-EU countries cannot simply move to Spain. You must first apply for a Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV).
Requirements include:
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Proof of passive income (pension, savings, investments)
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Private health insurance with no copays
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Clean criminal record
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Proof of accommodation
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Application at the Spanish consulate in your home country
💡 Most applicants start the process 3–6 months before moving.
💰 Financial Requirements (Updated)
To retire in Spain on the NLV, you must show:
| Applicant | Monthly Income (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | €2,400+ |
| Spouse | +€600 |
| Each dependent | +€600 |
✅ Your income must be passive — not from employment or freelancing.
🏥 Healthcare: Private Insurance Is Mandatory at First
You must purchase private health insurance that:
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Covers you fully in Spain
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Has no copays or waiting periods
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Is valid for at least 12 months
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Comes from an authorized Spanish or EU insurer
After 1+ year in Spain, you may be able to join the Convenio Especial and access public healthcare for a fixed monthly fee.
🏦 Banking & Currency Considerations
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You’ll need a Spanish bank account for residency and rent payments
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Currency exchange can impact pension income (USD, GBP, CAD, AUD → EUR)
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Consider using multi-currency accounts or transfer services with lower fees
💡 Our legal team can help open accounts even before you arrive.
💸 Taxes: You’ll Be Taxed on Worldwide Income
After 183+ days per year in Spain, you become a Spanish tax resident.
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Your pensions, rental income, and investments are taxable in Spain
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Spain has tax treaties with the US, UK, Canada, and Australia
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You may still need to file tax returns in both countries
Country-specific notes:
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🇺🇸 US: You must still file a federal tax return; Spain doesn’t tax US Social Security directly
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🇬🇧 UK: State pensions are taxed in Spain under the double taxation agreement
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🇨🇦 Canada: CPP and OAS pensions are generally taxable in Spain
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🇦🇺 Australia: Superannuation income may be taxed depending on structure
📝 Wills & Inheritance Law
Spanish inheritance law uses forced heirship, but as a foreigner you can:
✅ Elect the law of your home country in your Spanish will
✅ Avoid automatic distribution to statutory heirs
✅ Simplify the probate process for your family
🧾 Documents to Prepare Before Moving
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Valid passport | Must have at least 1 year before expiry |
| Marriage certificate | If applying with spouse (apostilled) |
| Proof of income/pension | Bank statements, letters from pension |
| Health insurance certificate | Must meet all visa criteria |
| Criminal background check | From your home country |
| Medical certificate | From a licensed physician |
📍 Common Destinations for Non-EU Retirees
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US retirees: Costa del Sol (Malaga, Marbella), Valencia, Barcelona
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UK retirees: Alicante, Murcia, Almeria, Javea
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Canadian retirees: Costa Blanca, Granada, inland Andalusia
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Australian retirees: Balearic Islands, Malaga, Valencia
🛡️ How We Help Non-EU Retirees
Our legal team specializes in helping retirees from the US, UK, Canada, and Australia:
✅ Apply for retirement visas remotely
✅ Prepare translations and apostilles
✅ Secure NIE and bank accounts
✅ Navigate healthcare registration
✅ Handle property purchases and inheritance planning
✅ Provide bilingual legal assistance throughout
📞 Retiring in Spain from Outside the EU?
We help make your transition smooth — legally, financially, and medically. Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on the lifestyle.
👉 Contact us today to begin your retirement journey to Spain.