Spain has become an increasingly popular destination for Pakistanis seeking a better quality of life in Europe. One of the easiest ways to move to Spain is through the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV), which allows individuals to live in Spain without working. This visa is ideal for retirees, remote workers with independent income, or those who simply want to experience a European lifestyle at a lower cost than in many Western countries.

In this article, we will explore how Pakistanis can move to Spain using the Non-Lucrative Visa, the cost of living in Spain, and how it compares to Pakistan.

What is the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa?

The Non-Lucrative Visa is a residency permit that allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain without engaging in any local employment or business activities. This visa is ideal for people who have passive income sources such as rentals, savings, pensions, or remote work earnings from outside Spain.

To qualify for this visa, applicants need to prove they have enough financial means to sustain themselves without relying on the Spanish job market. The financial requirements are based on the IPREM (Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income), which is used to determine the minimum income required to qualify.

As of 2024, applicants must show:

• A minimum of €28,800 per year for the primary applicant.
• An additional €7,200 per year for each dependent (spouse or child).

For Pakistani applicants, this means having roughly PKR 9,000,000 per year in savings or passive income, depending on the exchange rate.

Why Spain? Cost of Living Compared to Pakistan

Many Pakistanis are drawn to Spain due to its affordable cost of living, high quality of life, and access to European residency benefits. When compared to cities like Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad, many Spanish cities offer a significantly higher standard of living at a reasonable cost.

Here’s a comparison of average monthly costs between Spain and Pakistan:

Although rent is higher in Spain, other living expenses such as healthcare, transportation, and groceries can be comparable to or even lower than in Pakistan. Moreover, Spain offers better infrastructure, safety, and public services than most Pakistani cities.

Many Pakistanis choose to live in smaller cities like Valencia, Alicante, or Seville, where rent and expenses are much lower than in Madrid or Barcelona. A couple can comfortably live on €1,500-€2,000 per month in these cities.

How to Apply for Spain's Non-Lucrative Visa?

The application process for the Non-Lucrative Visa is straightforward but requires careful preparation. Here are the steps:

1. Gather Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

• A valid Pakistani passport (with at least one year of validity).
• Proof of financial means (bank statements, pension statements, or proof of passive income).
• Private health insurance from a Spanish provider.
• Police clearance certificate from Pakistan.
• Medical certificate confirming no serious illnesses.
• Proof of accommodation in Spain (rental contract or hotel booking).

2. Submit Application at the Spanish Consulate

Pakistani applicants must apply at the Spanish Embassy in Islamabad or the Consulate in Karachi. The processing time is usually one to three months.

3. Receive the Visa and Move to Spain

Once the visa is approved, applicants have 90 days to enter Spain and apply for their residency card (TIE - Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero).

4. Renew the Visa

The Non-Lucrative Visa is initially granted for one year and can be renewed for two additional years at a time. After five years, residents can apply for permanent residency.

Can You Work on a Non-Lucrative Visa?

The Non-Lucrative Visa does not allow employment in Spain, but remote work for foreign companies is generally permitted. Many Pakistanis on this visa work remotely as freelancers, online business owners, or IT professionals earning money from outside Spain.

For those who eventually want to work in Spain, it is possible to convert the Non-Lucrative Visa to a work visa after one year by securing a job offer from a Spanish employer.

Best Cities in Spain for Pakistani Expats

Spain has many affordable and beautiful cities where Pakistani expats can settle. Here are the top choices:

1. Valencia

• One of the most affordable large cities in Spain.
• Offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed lifestyle.
• A couple can live comfortably on €1,500 per month.

2. Alicante

• A popular choice among expats due to its low cost of living.
• Good weather and a strong Pakistani community.
• Apartments are cheaper than in Madrid or Barcelona.

3. Seville

• Rich in Spanish culture and history.
• Affordable rents and great food.
• One of the sunniest cities in Spain.

4. Granada

• Home to the famous Alhambra palace.
• A student-friendly city with low costs.
• Offers a mix of city life and natural beauty.

Challenges of Moving to Spain on a Non-Lucrative Visa

While Spain offers many advantages, there are also challenges:

• Language Barrier: Spanish is essential for daily life outside major tourist areas.
• Bureaucracy: Spanish paperwork and processes can be slow.
• Limited Job Opportunities: Since the visa does not allow local employment, financial planning is crucial.

Despite these challenges, many Pakistanis have successfully settled in Spain and enjoy a comfortable life with lower expenses compared to Western Europe.

Conclusion

Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa is an excellent option for Pakistanis who have passive income and want to enjoy a European lifestyle at a reasonable cost. With a good financial plan, careful city selection, and an understanding of Spanish culture, living in Spain can be an affordable and rewarding experience.

Whether you're a retiree, a digital nomad, or simply someone looking for a better quality of life, Spain offers an excellent balance of cost, safety, and comfort.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. The requirements and policies for Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa may change, so applicants should check with official Spanish authorities or consult a professional immigration advisor before making any decisions.