If you're looking to settle down without needing to work, the Non-Lucrative Visa is perfect for retirees or those living off savings and investments. If you're interested in investing in Spain, the Visa offers you the chance to live in Spain while building your future. For professionals, Spain offers Work Visas and the increasingly popular Digital Nomad Visa, ideal for remote workers who want to enjoy all that Spain has to offer while working from anywhere.

At Landcross Partners, we know the process can seem overwhelming, but our team & partners handle all the legal details, paperwork, and timelines for you..

We'll make sure you're on the right track and guide you every step of the way, so you can focus on the exciting part of starting your new life in Spain.

U.S. residents who wish to move to Spain have several visa options depending on their personal, financial, or professional situation. The time it takes to obtain a visa varies depending on the type, but on average it can range between 1 and 3 months. Below are the most common visa types for U.S. citizens, along with estimated processing times.

You can connect with our partner immigration advisors through a free introductory Teams meeting.

Non-Lucrative Visa

The Non-Lucrative Visa is a residency permit for non-EU citizens that lets you live in Spain for an initial period of one year, renewable every two years. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency. Best of all, there’s no requirement to work or invest in Spain, making it a low-hassle, high-reward opportunity.

Whether you're looking for a fresh start, an extended sabbatical, or a new home for your family, this visa provides the perfect opportunity.

This visa is ideal for:

Retirees who want to spend their golden years in a country renowned for its quality of life.

Financially Independent Individuals who can comfortably support themselves and their families.

Everybody who is seeking a year to experience Spain before exploring work or business opportunities later.

  • 1. Requirements

    -Financial Stability: Show you have sufficient funds through savings, rental income, pensions, or other passive income sources.

    Demonstrate sufficient funds, such as savings, pensions, or rental income:

    -Applicant: 400% of the IPREM (Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income) per month. For 2025 that would be 2.400 €/month.

    -Each dependent: 100% of the IPREM per month or 600 €/month.

    -Health Insurance: Obtain public or private health insurance coverage from a provider authorized to operate in Spain.

    -Clean Criminal Record: Provide a police clearance certificate from your country of origin or recent countries of residence.

    -Medical Clearance: Submit a certificate confirming no serious public health risks, in line with International Health Regulations.

    -Legality in Spain: Applicants must not be unlawfully present in Spain.

  • 2. Processing time

    The processing time for the Non-Lucrative Visa typically ranges from one to three months, depending on the workload of the Spanish Consulate or Embassy where you submit your application.

    We can help you with that.

  • 3. Initial visa duration

    Initially, the Visa is granted for one year.

    Flexibility: After your first year, you can modify your residency status to a work permit if you decide to continue your professional activity.

    After the first year, it can be renewed for two-year periods, eventually leading to permanent residency after five consecutive years of residence in Spain.

    No Investments Needed: Unlike other visas, this Visa doesn’t require financial investments in Spain.

Work Visa Self Employment

The Residence and Self-Employment Authorization Visa allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Spain by creating or managing their own business. 

Whether you’re starting a new venture, acquiring an established company, or investing in a franchise, this visa provides the legal framework to make your entrepreneurial goals a reality in Spain.

Who is it for?

Entrepreneurs with plans to invest approximately €90,000 or more (no strict minimum, but funding strengthens your application).

Professionals with relevant qualifications or experience seeking to establish a self-employment venture.

Non-EU residents already living in Spain under a Non-Lucrative Residence Permit who want to transition to business ownership after one year.

  • 1. Requirements

    To qualify for the Residence and Self-Employment Authorization, you’ll need to comply with legal and regulatory requirements for operating a business in Spain:

    -Be a non-EU/EEA citizen.
    -Present a viable business plan demonstrating profitability, sustainability, and potential job creation.
    -Prove sufficient financial resources to cover both personal living expenses and business operations.
    -Possess professional qualifications or accredited experience related to your business.

    What Makes a Strong Application?

    -A detailed business plan outlining your vision, financial projections, and job creation potential.
    -Proof of financial backing, such as bank statements or institutional support.
    -Documentation showing your professional qualifications and readiness to execute your business plan.

  • 2. Processing time

    How long does it take? Standard Timeframe: 1 to 3 months from the date of submission. 

    Legal Limit: Immigration authorities must respond within 3 months; otherwise, the application is considered disapproved by administrative silence, in which case appeal is possible.

    Steps That Impact Timing: 

    -Document Preparation: Ensure all necessary documents—business plans, proof of funds, and qualifications—are ready before submission. 

    -Application Review: Authorities will assess compliance with Spanish regulations. 

    -Additional Requests: Respond promptly to any requests for clarification or supplementary information to avoid delays. 

  • 3. Initial visa duration

    Once approved, the initial visa is valid for 1 year, giving you time to:

    -Set up and operate your business in line with your approved plan.
    - Build your company’s financial stability.
    - Ensure compliance with Spain’s tax and legal requirements.


    Renewals: The visa is renewable for longer periods, provided your business remains viable and you meet all obligations.


    Why Work With Us? We simplify the process of obtaining your Residence and Self-Employment Authorization Visa by offering:

    -Expert Application Guidance: From crafting your business plan to submitting a flawless application.
    -Tailored Support: Assistance with transitioning from a Non-Lucrative Residence Permit.
    -Post-Approval Help: Guidance on setting up your company, registering for a NIE, and managing compliance.

Digital Nomad Visa

With the Digital Nomad Visa you can combine your career with an extraordinary lifestyle—world-class cuisine, a welcoming culture, sunny skies, and a significantly lower cost of living compared to the U.S.

Whether you're a freelancer, a remote employee, or an entrepreneur, this visa gives you the freedom to work legally in Spain while enjoying all the benefits of its exceptional quality of life.

This visa is ideal for:

Remote Employees: Work for a foreign company while enjoying Spain’s lifestyle.

Freelancers: Serve international clients, with less than 20% of income coming from Spanish sources.

Entrepreneurs: Manage global businesses remotely from Spain.

Whether you’re working for an overseas company or providing services to clients around the world, the Digital Nomad Visa is tailor-made for professionals who value flexibility, freedom, and the chance to experience life in Spain.

  • 1. Requirements

    To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, you must meet the following criteria:


    1. Employment Status


    Employees: The foreign company must allow remote work, operate for at least 1 year, and confirm your role supports remote work.
    Freelancers: Provide contracts with clients outside Spain that specify remote work conditions.

    2. Income : demonstrate a monthly income of at least 2.730 €.


    3. Work Experience or Education : show 3 years of professional experience or provide a degree from a reputable institution.


    4. Clean Criminal Record : submit a certificate of no criminal record from the last 5 years, legalized and apostilled.


    5. Health Insurance : obtain private health insurance with full coverage in Spain.


    6. Supporting documents : complete the application form, pay administrative fees, and provide proof of your work arrangement and income stability.

  • 2. Processing time

    The Digital Nomad Visa application process is fast and efficient.


    • Fast-track resolution: Get a decision in just 20 days.


    Positive administrative silence: If no response is received within this period, the application is automatically approved.


    Once approved, you’ll need to visit the local police office to register your fingerprints and receive your physical residency card.

  • 3. Initial visa duration

    The Digital Nomad Visa offers flexible durations:


    Apply from the US: Receive a 1-year visa, which can be converted into a 3-year residency card upon entering Spain.


    Apply from Spain: Obtain a 3-year residency card during your stay on a 90 day tourist visa.


    This visa is renewable for an additional 2 years, allowing you to stay in Spain for up to 5 years. Time spent on this visa counts toward both Spanish nationality and long-term residency eligibility.

Work Visa Employee

This visa The Authorization of Residence and Work as an Employee allows non-EU foreign nationals aged 16 or older to reside and work in Spain for a period exceeding 90 days and up to 5 years.

This permit is designed for individuals seeking employment in Spain, where an employer or business must sponsor the application to hire a foreign worker who is not currently residing in Spain.

Who can apply?

Non-EU Nationals: Foreign workers outside Spain who meet the requirements for employment.

Exceptional Circumstances Residents: Individuals already holding a temporary residence permit under exceptional circumstances (e.g., Social Roots) who wish to transition to this type of authorization after one year.

  • 1. Requirements

    To qualify for the Authorization of Residence and Work as an Employee, you must meet the following criteria:


    1. Legal Status: Not be a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, or their family member.
    2. No Legal Barriers: Have no criminal record and not be prohibited from entering Spain.
    3. Compliance with Laws: Fulfill any prior commitments not to return to Spain if applicable.
    4. Job Availability: Your profession must be included in the Catalog of Hard-to-Fill Professions, except for nationals from Chile and Peru.
    5. Valid Employment Contract: A signed contract guaranteeing employment during the permit’s validity period.
    6. Adequate Conditions: Contract terms must comply with Spanish labor laws, including meeting or exceeding the minimum wage.
    7. Employer Requirements:
       o The employer must be registered with Social Security and current with tax obligations.
       o The employer must demonstrate sufficient financial solvency to fulfill the obligations of  the employment contract.
    8. Professional Qualification: Hold any required qualifications or certifications for the job.

  • 2. Processing time

    Your employer is responsible for starting the application process.

    Once the employer submits the application to the relevant immigration office, the following steps occur:


    1. Initial Submission: The employer receives a stamped copy of the application, which they send to you.


    2. Consulate Processing: You present this document and other required materials to the Spanish consulate in your home country.


    Timeline:

    -Initial Processing: After submission, the consulate has 3 months to issue a decision.
    -Internal Review: Your application is sent to the Immigration Office in Spain for review. If approved, the decision is sent back to the consulate, which issues the work visa in your passport.
    -Overall Timeline: The entire process can take up to 8 months, so planning ahead is essential.

  • 3. Initial visa duration

    The initial Authorization of Residence and Work as an Employee is valid for 1 year.


    During this time, you must:


    -Work for the employer who sponsored your application.
    -Ensure compliance with Spanish labor and residency regulations.


    Renewals: The visa can be renewed for longer periods if you maintain your employment and meet all regulatory requirements.

Entrepreneur Visa

The Entrepreneur Visa (Start-Up Visa) in Spain is your ticket to launching an innovative business in one of Europe’s most dynamic markets.

This residence permit allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Spain for up to three years, with the opportunity to extend your stay.

This visa is ideal for:

Entrepreneurs: Individuals with an innovative business idea that aligns with Spain’s economic interests.

Start-Up Founders: Visionaries aiming to launch a project with high growth potential in technology, research, or development.

Family-Oriented Entrepreneurs: Those looking to relocate with their family members, who can apply for residency alongside you.

Spain's Entrepreneur Visa is designed for businesses that:

Create employment and drive Spain’s economic growth.

Offer investment opportunities or leverage advanced technologies.

Bring innovation with minimal competition in the Spanish market.

  • 1. Requirements

    The Entrepreneur Visa (Start-Up Visa) in Spain is your ticket to launching an innovative business in one of Europe’s most dynamic markets.

    This residence permit allows non-EU citizens to live and work in Spain for up to three years, with the opportunity to extend your stay.


    This visa is ideal for:


    -Entrepreneurs: Individuals with an innovative business idea that aligns with Spain’s economic interests.
    -Start-Up Founders: Visionaries aiming to launch a project with high growth potential in technology, research, or development.
    -Family-Oriented Entrepreneurs: Those looking to relocate with their family members, who can apply for residency alongside you.


    Spain's Entrepreneur Visa is designed for businesses that:


    -Create employment and drive Spain’s economic growth.
    -Offer investment opportunities or leverage advanced technologies.
    -Bring innovation with minimal competition in the Spanish market.

  • 2. Processing time

    Step 1: Submit Business Plan to ENISA


    ENISA reviews your business plan within up to 3 months to determine if it meets innovation and scalability criteria.


    Step 2: Submit Application to UGE-CE


    -Simultaneously, send your immigration application to the Large Business and Strategic Groups Unit (UGE-CE) for residency approval.


    -Decision Timeline: UGE-CE will process your application within 20 business days after ENISA approval. If no response is received within this timeframe, administrative silence means approval.


    Total Processing Time: The full process, from submitting your business plan to receiving your resolution, typically takes 4 months.

  • 3. Initial visa duration

    If Applying from Your Home Country:

    Receive a 1-year visa to travel to Spain.

    Upon arrival, exchange it for a 3-year residency card as an entrepreneur.

    If Already in Spain:

    Start your business immediately.

    Schedule an appointment to receive your 3-year residence card.

    With the Entrepreneur Visa, you’ll enjoy :

    -Work Authorization: No need for complex work visa requirements.

    -Schengen Area Mobility: Freedom to travel within Schengen countries.

    -Family Inclusion: Bring your spouse, children, and dependent parents with you.

    Ready to Build Your Future in Spain?

    The Entrepreneur Visa opens the door to innovation and success in one of Europe’s most attractive markets. Let us help you craft your business plan, navigate the application process, and secure your visa.

    Contact us today to start your journey!

Qualified Professional Visa

The Highly Qualified Professional Visa is designed for U.S. citizens who want to live and work legally in Spain in specialized, managerial, or technical roles. 

Eligible profiles include:

Managers or Chief Officers who lead teams within a company.

Technical Specialists in fields requiring advanced expertise and training.

Graduates of prestigious universities or business schools with superior studies.

This visa is exclusively for salaried employees and does not apply to freelancers, entrepreneurs, or “autónomos.”

  • 1. Requirements

    To qualify for this visa, you’ll need:


    Job Offer in Spain: A contract for a managerial or highly specialized role.


    Salary Threshold

    -Managers: Minimum €54,000/year.

    -Technical professionals: Minimum €40,000/year.


    Academic Background: A degree from a recognized university or business school, closely tied to the role.


    Background Check: No criminal record in Spain or other countries.
    Full Health Insurance: Private or public coverage in Spain.


    Legal Residency: You must not be in Spain illegally at the time of application.


    The hiring company submits the application to Spain’s Large Business and Strategic Sectors Unit (UGE).

  • 2. Processing time

    Applications are processed quickly:


    Standard Processing:

    Decisions typically take 10-20 business days.


    If applying from Spain as a tourist, you can skip the visa step and proceed directly to residency.


    Once approved, your residency card will be ready for pickup within 30 days after your fingerprints are taken.

  • 3. Initial visa duration

    Initial Visa Duration


    The Highly Qualified Professional Visa grants:


    An initial residence permit for two years.


    The permit is renewable every two years, provided you maintain the same position and meet all conditions.


    After five years of residency, you can apply for permanent residency.


    This visa allows you to:


    -Live and work anywhere in Spain.
    -Bring your family through a joint application.
    -Travel freely within the Schengen Area.


    Need help navigating the process? Contact our team to ensure a seamless application.

HAVE A MEETING WITH AN IMMIGRATION ADVISOR