Residence permit in Spain in 2026: Actual ways of obtaining for foreigner citizens.

A residence permit in Spain (Residencia) is an authorization for temporary residence in the country, issued for a specific period (from 1 to 5 years) and can be renewed. After 5 years of legal residence, one can apply for permanent residency (Residencia de Larga Duración), and after another 5 years — for citizenship.

1. Residency for Financially Independent Persons (Residencia Temporal no Lucrativa)

This option is for those who have a stable passive income from outside Spain (rental income, dividends, interest from deposits, pensions, etc.) and can prove its legal origin.

Requirements:

• Income: At least 400% of the IPREM per month (as of August 2025, the IPREM is €600, meaning the minimum required income is €2,400/month).

• Validity: The initial residence permit is issued for 1 year, then renewed for 2 years. After 5 years, one can apply for permanent residency.

2. Digital Nomad Visa (DNV)

A relatively new and popular visa for remote workers and freelancers employed by companies or serving clients outside of Spain.

Requirements:

• Income: At least 200% of the IPREM (approximately €1,200/month) for the main applicant. The required amount increases if relocating with family.

• Validity: Initially issued for up to 3 years (or for the duration of the work contract), with the possibility to renew for another 2 years.

3. Residency for Entrepreneurs and Startups (Residencia para Emprendedores)

For those who plan to launch an innovative business or startup in Spain.

Requirements:

• Business Plan: Submit a detailed, economically viable plan describing the project, investments, expected revenue, and the number of jobs to be created. The law does not set a minimum investment amount—innovation and benefit to the Spanish economy are more important.

• Approval: The project must receive a positive evaluation from a special government commission.

• Validity: The initial residence permit is issued for 1 year, then renewed for 2 years.

4. Family Reunification Residency

This type of residency permit can be obtained by family members of a Spanish resident or citizen.

Who is eligible:

• Spouses and registered partners.

• Children (including those of the spouse) under 26 years of age if they are dependents.

• Dependent parents and parents of the spouse.

Update (May 2025): A new simplified procedure has been introduced specifically for family members of Spanish citizens. The application processing time has been reduced to 2 months.

5. Student Residency (Residencia para Estudiantes)

A residence permit for studying at accredited educational institutions in Spain.

Requirements:

• Enrollment in an educational institution (university, language courses, etc.).

• Work Rights: Permitted to work up to 20 hours per week with separate authorization.

After 3 years of residence on a student visa, it is possible to switch to another type of residency (e.g., a work permit).

6. Residency for Social Integration (Arraigo Social)

A special type of residency for those who have already lived in Spain for a certain period, including illegally, but can prove their social integration.

Important Considerations for Citizens of Russia and Belarus in 2025

1. Proof of Income: Due to difficulties with international banking operations, it is critical to have access to bank accounts in third countries (Kazakhstan, Armenia, Turkey, UAE, etc.) to provide up-to-date bank statements.

2. Legitimate Source of Funds: Consulates pay special attention to the origin of money. Be prepared to provide a detailed history of capital formation.

3. “Golden Visa” Closed: As of April 3, 2025, Spain’s Investor Visa program (“Golden Visa”) has officially been terminated for new applicants.

Which Option to Choose?

• If you have a passive income and do not plan to work → Residency for Financially Independent Persons.

• If you work remotely for a company or clients abroad → Digital Nomad Visa.

• If you plan to start a business or a startup in Spain → Residency for Entrepreneurs.

• If your close relative already lives in Spain → Family Reunification Residency.

You can read more on our website.

If you have any additional questions or need a consultation to choose the optimal residency basis and prepare your documents, our Hungarian consulting company IST Hungary will be happy to assist you at every stage of your relocation.

Address of our Barcelona office in Spain: Av. Diagonal, 131, Sant Martí, 08018 Barcelona, Spain.