Non Lucrative Visa Spain Savings Requirement — What You Need in 2026

The non lucrative visa Spain savings requirement is typically approximately 12 months of the income threshold — approximately €28,800 for a single applicant in 2026. For a couple, the figure rises to approximately €36,000. These are approximate — the IPREM is updated each January. Individual consulates also apply different standards, so our eligibility check confirms the exact figure for your consulate.

Some Spanish consulates will accept savings as a primary route in lieu of regular monthly passive income. Others only treat savings as a supplement when income is close to but below the threshold. The approach depends on your specific consulate. If you are relying primarily on savings rather than a regular income stream, specialist advice before applying is essential — a savings-only application is not automatically accepted everywhere.

For UK applicants, Cash ISAs and Stocks and Shares ISAs generally count as qualifying savings, provided the funds are accessible. Flexible ISAs that allow withdrawals are straightforward. Fixed-rate ISAs with a maturity date in the future may be problematic if that date falls after your intended visa start. You will need statements from the ISA provider showing the balance and accessibility conditions.

No. The total value of an undrawn pension pot does not count as accessible savings for the NLV. Only the income or drawdown you actually receive from a pension qualifies — either as income (if you are already drawing from it) or not at all (if the pot is untouched). If you are approaching retirement, beginning pension drawdown before your application may be the best approach. Our specialists can advise on timing.

Yes. Savings held in a joint account with your spouse or partner can be included in your NLV financial evidence, provided both account holders' names appear clearly on the statements. Most consulates also accept savings held in a spouse's sole name when the spouse is a co-applicant on the same NLV application. Our case managers confirm exactly how to present joint finances for your consulate.

Typically 3–6 months of official bank statements or savings account statements showing the balance over the required period. Statements must clearly show your name, account number, and institution. Screenshots from apps are generally not accepted — request certified or printed statements from your bank. Our managed service includes up to €100 of translations in your service fee for any documents requiring certified translation into Spanish.

Yes. Savings in foreign currencies are converted to euros at the European Central Bank (ECB) rate at the time of application. Use the current ECB rate and be conservative — avoid using the most favourable historical rate. If your savings are close to the threshold after conversion, holding a buffer protects against exchange rate movements between your application date and your consulate appointment. You do not need to transfer funds to a Spanish bank account before applying.

Most consulates review 3–6 months of bank statements, so they will see the history of your savings balance over that period. A large, unexplained deposit appearing just before your application — for example, a family transfer to boost your balance — may be questioned. Consulates want to see savings that represent your genuine financial position. Our immigration specialists advise on how to present your savings history clearly and honestly.