Editorial transparency and use of artificial intelligence
This article forms part of the CostaLuz Lawyers blog and is published for general informational and educational purposes only. It was prepared with the assistance of artificial intelligence tools and, before publication, was substantively reviewed and editorially approved by Maria de Castro, a Spanish-qualified lawyer registered with the Cádiz Bar Association under number 2745, founder of CostaLuz Lawyers and the person responsible for the editorial review of the published content.
This article does not constitute legal, tax, immigration, employment, estate-planning or investment advice and does not replace an individual assessment and the professional work of the appropriate CostaLuz Lawyers specialist. No action or omission should be based solely on this information.
DNV stands for Digital Nomad Visa — Spain’s residence permit for remote workers employed by, or contracting with, companies outside Spain. NLV is the Non-Lucrative Visa, for people with sufficient income who will not work in Spain. The two are routinely confused; this page explains the 2025 immigration changes to both and which one fits your situation.
Starting May 20, 2025, Spain will implement substantial changes to its Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) and Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) under the updated Immigration Regulation (Reglamento de Extranjería). Below, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of these updates to help applicants and residents better understand the new regulations.
Related: For comprehensive information about nlv visa spain, see our complete guide to nlv visa spain.
Why a Specialist Immigration Lawyer — Not Just a Gestor
Immigration is not just paperwork. A gestor or administrative agent can file forms, but they cannot provide legal strategy, anticipate complications in your case, or represent you if your application is denied.
A specialist immigration lawyer analyses your full situation before filing, identifies the strongest route for your profile, prepares for potential objections, and can file a formal appeal (recurso) if needed. At CostaLuz, every immigration case is handled by a qualified lawyer — never delegated to administrative staff.
Quick Answer
What: Detailed FAQ on how Spain’s 2025 immigration reform changes NLV and DNV requirements.
Who it’s for: Non-EU nationals holding or applying for Non-Lucrative Visas or Digital Nomad Visas in Spain.
Key fact: The 2025 reform introduces new financial thresholds and changes to renewal periods for both visa types.
CostaLuz difference: personalised quote legal advice. No percentage charges. Bilingual team since 2006.
For a complete overview of Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa — including eligibility, application routes, renewals, tax positioning, and long-term residence — see our Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) – legal & tax guide.
These Spain Digital Nomad Visa changes 2025 affect both NLV and DNV applicants under the updated immigration regulation.
For a complete overview of Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa — including eligibility, application routes, renewals, tax positioning, and long-term residence — see our Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) – legal & tax guide.
Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): Changes Under the 2025 Regulation
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What is the validity period of the NLV under the new rules?
The initial NLV authorization will still be valid for one year, Under the revised Article 64 of the Immigration Regulation (as updated by RD 1155/2024), the renewal of a non-lucrative residence permit will continue to be granted for 2 years, rather than 4.
The key point from the new regulation is:
- Renewed temporary residence permits will last for 2 years, unless the individual qualifies for long-term residency.
The process is as follows:
After 5 years: eligibility for long-term residency (valid for 5 years).
- Initial residence: 1 year
- First renewal: 2 years
- Second renewal: 2 years
Is family regrouping allowed earlier under the NLV?
Yes, under the updated regulation, family regrouping is permitted after just one year of residence, compared to the previous rule that required applicants to wait until the first renewal. This makes it easier for families to reunite and settle in Spain together.
What are the financial requirements for the NLV?
The financial requirements remain tied to 400% of Spain’s IPREM (Public Income Indicator). In 2025, this equates to approximately €30,000 annually for the primary applicant and an additional 100% of IPREM (around €7,500 annually) for each dependent.
The updated regulation introduces greater flexibility in proving income sources. Applicants can now include:
- Dividends from investments.
- Rental income from properties.
- Pensions or other consistent, passive income streams.
Does the NLV still classify holders as tax residents in Spain?
Yes. The updated regulation reinforces that NLV holders are tax residents in Spain if they reside for more than 183 days annually. This means you must declare your global income and comply with Spain’s tax obligations.
Digital Nomad Visa (DNV): What Changes in 2025?
Has the duration of the DNV changed?
No. Initial duration:
- From abroad: 1 year.
- From within Spain: 3 years.
Renewals:
Each renewal is granted for 2 years, provided that the established requirements continue to be met.
👉 Check our complete Digital Nomad Visa Guide for further details.
Are the income requirements for the DNV the same?
The income requirement remains at 200% of the SMI, Spain’s statutory minimum wage, which is approximately €2,849 per month or €34,188 per year, with the SMI set at €1,221 per month for 2026. Applicants must demonstrate stable remote income from a company or clients located outside Spain.
Can DNV holders work with Spanish clients?
Yes, but with limitations. DNV holders can now legally earn up to 20% of their total income from Spanish clients or projects, creating opportunities for those looking to integrate locally.
Have the application requirements for the DNV been simplified?
Yes. The new regulation streamlines the documentation requirements for DNV applications.
👉 Learn more about the Digital Nomad Visa application process in Spain.
Contracts with foreign employers or proof of income from international clients will now follow standardized formats, reducing administrative complexity.
👉 Learn about the DNV application process.
Changes Affecting Both NLV and DNV
How will the renewal process change?
Both NLV and DNV renewals will now last four years, reducing the frequency of applications. Proof of compliance with financial and legal requirements is still necessary.
Can I transition to other visa types more easily?
Yes. The new regulation simplifies the transition to other visa types, including:
- Work permits for self-employment or employment in Spain.
- Residency permits under general immigration laws after an extended stay.
Will the application and renewal process become faster?
Yes. Spain is introducing fully digital platforms for visa applications and renewals, reducing processing times and eliminating the need for frequent visits to immigration offices.
Practical Implications for Applicants
Who benefits the most from these changes?
NLV applicants: Families planning to move to Spain benefit from earlier regrouping opportunities.
DNV holders: Remote workers enjoy more stability with four-year renewals and the ability to earn limited income from Spanish clients.
How do these changes affect tax obligations?
Both NLV and DNV holders must understand Spain’s tax residency rules:
👉 Read more about tax residency rules for digital nomads in Spain.
- NLV holders are automatically tax residents.
- DNV holders may qualify depending on their duration of stay.
👉 Read about tax residency rules in Spain for more information.
Are there any new challenges introduced by the regulation?
While the changes are mostly positive, the clarification of tax residency obligations could lead to higher tax burdens for individuals with significant global income or assets.
Conclusion: How to Prepare for the 2025 Rules
The updated Immigration Regulation offers enhanced flexibility, stability, and benefits for applicants under both the NLV and DNV programs. These changes make Spain even more attractive for international residents but come with legal and fiscal responsibilities.
👉 If you’re considering applying for an NLV or DNV or transitioning to another residency type, contact Costaluz Lawyers to ensure compliance and make the most of these new opportunities.
Related Digital Nomad & Visa Guides
- Digital Nomad Visa Spain — Complete Guide (2026)
- DNV vs Non-Lucrative Visa — Which Is Right for You?
- Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) — Legal & Tax Support
- DNV Renewal 2026: Checklist and FAQs
- Beckham Law for Digital Nomads
- Where Do Digital Nomads Pay Taxes in Spain?
- Non-Lucrative Visa Spain — Complete Guide (2026)
- Immigration Lawyers in Spain
Related Immigration & Residency Guides
- Immigration to Spain — Complete Residency & Visa Guide (2026)
- Non-Lucrative Visa Spain
- Digital Nomad Visa Spain
- Family Reunification Spain
- NIE Spain Guide 2026
- Arraigo Social Spain
- Immigration Lawyers in Spain
María Luisa de Castro
Founder & Immigration Law Specialist at CostaLuz Lawyers
María Luisa is the founder of CostaLuz Lawyers, specialising in Property Law and Consumer Real Estate Law (Derecho de Consumo Inmobiliario). She has led the firm for over 20 years, advising international buyers, expats, and families across Spain.
Aviso legal: Esta informacion se proporciona unicamente a titulo orientativo y no constituye asesoramiento fiscal o legal personalizado. Cada caso debe evaluarse de forma individual segun las circunstancias especificas del cliente. Es imprescindible consultar a un especialista cualificado antes de tomar cualquier decision.
Legal Notice: The content on this page is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. No action should be taken based solely on this content without first seeking independent professional legal counsel. Each case requires individual assessment based on its specific circumstances. CostaLuz Lawyers accepts no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this content.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Spain's DNV and NLV?
The DNV is the Digital Nomad Visa, for remote workers employed by or contracting with companies outside Spain. The NLV is the Non-Lucrative Visa, for people with sufficient income who will not work in Spain.
How long is a non-lucrative residence permit renewal granted for?
The initial NLV authorization is valid for one year. Under the revised Article 64 of the Immigration Regulation, as updated by RD 1155/2024, renewal is granted for 2 years rather than 4.
When can NLV holders apply for family regrouping under the 2025 regulation?
Family regrouping is permitted after just one year of residence, compared to the previous rule that required applicants to wait until the first renewal.
Can a Digital Nomad Visa holder work for Spanish clients?
Yes, but with limitations. DNV holders can legally earn up to 20% of their total income from Spanish clients or projects.
Does holding an NLV make you a Spanish tax resident?
NLV holders are tax residents in Spain if they reside for more than 183 days annually. This means you must declare your global income and comply with Spain’s tax obligations.
We provide independent legal advice on Spanish law for international clients, with personalised quote pricing and no percentage of recovery. For a fixed-price quote on your specific matter, email marialuisa@costaluzlawyers.es.
Related guide: Spain residency options for UK nationals.
Confused about NLV vs DNV — or which visa fits you? Book a call and we will tell you exactly which Spanish visa applies to your situation, and how to apply. No obligation.
Prefer to write first? Send a message → — María replies within one business day.
Need to speak now? +34 919 499 342 (EN/ES, 24h). Office: +34 956 092 687. Costaluz Lawyers — María Luisa de Castro, ICA Cádiz nº 2745.
The Supreme Court has ruled on prolonged absences since this regulation came in: what those rulings changed, and what they did not.
We have already completed year one and year2/3 is coming to and end in December, will we still need to apply for our year 4/5. Or will our current visa extend then ?
I understand you’re referring to the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) in its second renewal. You will need to apply for the year 4/5 renewal before your current visa expires in December, as it won’t automatically extend. Make sure to submit the necessary documentation, including proof of income and health insurance.
Hello, great article, thank you. Still unclear. “In the beginning for NLV it states that Renewed temporary residence permits will last for 2 years”. At the end it said ” Both NLV and DNV renewals will now last four years, reducing the frequency of applications”. For NLV the renewal process with 2 years requirements but it lasts for 4 years. Could you please clarify – thank you
Hello,
You are absolutely right, and thank you for pointing that out. There was some confusion at the beginning, but to clarify definitively: for both the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) and the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV), the renewal permits last for 2 years, not 4.
We apologize for the earlier inconsistency and appreciate your careful reading.
If you have any other questions, feel free to ask!
Best regards.
If I move to Spain with a NLV in September of year 2026, will I be a tax resident for 2026 even though I will not be in Spain for more than 183 days? Or will I be a tax resident in 2027 once I have lived in Spain more than 183 days in that calendar year?
Also, I understand that citizens from Mexico can apply for Spanish citizenship after 2 years of living in Spain, will 2 years with a NLV qualify for that? Or do I have to get permanent residency first?
Thank you.
Tax residency (NLV, arriving Sept-2026)
2026: generally non-resident (you won’t hit 183 days), unless your economic center or family ties pull you in.
2027: resident once you exceed 183 days. Check your double-tax treaty.
Citizenship (Mexican nationals)
2 years of legal, continuous residence → eligible for citizenship by residence.
NLV counts toward the two years. No need for permanent/long-term residence first.
Keep absences minimal; plan DELE A2 + CCSE (unless exempt).
Hello my name is Senol.
We are a Family of 4. We are planning to apply for nlv for my wife and 2 cildren (mail purpose for nlv is for our children’s education) . We have passive incomes from rentals and invesments. But i want to ask these:
1- i will stay in my country because of my job. Can i finance my family with my active income (salary) also? Later on (2 years later) i will retire and apply for family reunion.
2- the rental income and investment income are in my bank account. Can it be a problem for my wife and childrens application. I mean passive incomes are not in my wifes bank account.
Hope to hear you soon. Regards.
Your salary: The Consulate looks at whether the family has sufficient and stable means. Your income can be used to support your wife and children, even if you stay in your country, as long as it is well documented and you sign a clear financial support statement.
Income in your name: Rental and investment income can be in your bank account. The key is to prove the origin, stability and that these funds are really available for your family in Spain.
It is a viable approach, but always subject to the criteria of the specific Consulate, so the application must be carefully prepared.