Spain has published an updated fee schedule for its non-lucrative residence visa — the route most commonly used by retirees and remote workers living in Spain without local employment — effective January 1, 2026, according to the Spanish Consulate General in Los Angeles as reported by Legit.ng and corroborated by Yen.com.gh.
The new schedule sets a two-tier fee: American applicants pay $140, while applicants of all other nationalities pay $106. Both outlets attribute the gap to a reciprocal-fee arrangement, under which Spain’s charge to US nationals mirrors what the United States charges Spanish nationals for equivalent visas. Payment can now be completed through an official online government portal, with proof of payment attached to the application.
On the financial-means side, Legit.ng reports that applicants must demonstrate funds equal to at least 400% of Spain’s IPREM index — €33,600 for the primary applicant, plus 100% of IPREM for each additional dependent included in the application. Retirees specifically must hold a state pension or life annuity paid in a convertible currency. Applicants must also submit three months of bank statements and their most recent tax return, both officially stamped or sealed.
Two additional conditions apply: applicants with an active loan or mortgage in the United States at the time of application are ineligible, and self-employed applicants must notarize an affidavit confirming they will not conduct business activity in Spain under this permit.
References
Legit.ng – Spain Announces Amount Foreigners Must Have to Qualify for Retirement Residency Permit / Legit.ng – Spain publishes Retirement Permanent Residency Permit Fees for Americans, Other Foreigners for 2026 / Yen.com.gh – Spain Introduces New Residency Permit Fees for Americans and Other Foreigners in 2026
