Sunny Spain continues to rank among the world’s top retirement destinations, and for good reason.
With a fantastic Mediterranean climate, excellent healthcare, vibrant cities, and peaceful countryside, Spain offers retirees a relaxed, fulfilling lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking for a bustling urban environment or a quiet seaside village, Spain has something for everyone. But what about the legal side of things? This is our guide to residency visas for retirees in Spain.
Can I retire in Spain?
Yes, you absolutely can retire in Spain. Every year, thousands of retirees from the UK, the USA, Canada, and beyond choose Spain as the perfect destination to spend their golden years.
Since Brexit, British citizens are now classed as non-EU nationals and must meet the same residency visa requirements as other non-EU nationals.
To retire in Spain legally, you must:
- Prove financial independence
- Hold private health insurance
- Pass criminal background checks
- Obtain the appropriate visa and residence permit
The best places to retire in Spain
Spain has plenty to offer retirees, from bustling cities to laid back countryside villas.
Whether you’re drawn to the beach, the mountains, or lively cities, you’ll find the perfect place for your retirement.
Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol is one of the most sought-after retirement destinations in Spain, and it's easy to see why. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, stunning beaches, and a well-established expat community, it offers a familiar and comfortable lifestyle.
Towns like Marbella, Estepona, and Fuengirola provide excellent healthcare facilities, English-speaking services, and a variety of leisure activities tailored to retirees.
Alicante
Alicante, located on Spain’s eastern Mediterranean coast, offers both a warm climate and affordability.
The city boasts a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and a thriving expat scene. Its efficient public transport, excellent healthcare options, and relatively low cost of living make it a practical and popular choice for retirees looking to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
Mallorca
The island of Mallorca offers retirees a unique mix of luxury and tranquillity.
From Palma's vibrant cultural scene to the peaceful villages nestled in the Tramuntana mountains, there’s something for every taste.
Mallorca’s high standard of healthcare, superb food, and natural beauty make it a dream destination for those seeking a slower pace of life surrounded by stunning scenery.
Valencia
Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city but retains a relaxed and welcoming feel, ideal for retirees.
The cost of living is significantly lower than in Madrid or Barcelona, yet it still offers all the amenities of a major city.
Its beautiful beaches, world-famous food, and excellent healthcare system have made it an increasingly popular choice for international retirees seeking culture, comfort, and affordability.
Costa Blanca
Stretching along the southeastern coast, the Costa Blanca is famous for its white-sand beaches, mild winters, and relaxed pace of life.
Towns like Jávea, Altea, and Benidorm attract retirees looking for seaside living with easy access to modern conveniences.
The region’s well-developed infrastructure and strong healthcare services make it particularly attractive for older residents seeking comfort and peace of mind.
Want to dive deeper?
See our full guide: The Best Places To Retire In Spain
What is the income requirement for a retirement visa in Spain?
One of the key factors for obtaining a Spanish retirement visa is proving that you have enough income or savings to support yourself.
On average, you need at least €30,240 per year for an individual applicant (based on 2025 figures). This figure is linked to Spain’s IPREM (Public Income Indicator) and may increase slightly each year.
For each additional family member, you must have an additional €7,560 annually.
This income can come from:
- Pensions
- Investments
- Savings
- Rental income
- Other regular income streams
It’s essential that your funds are consistent, verifiable, and ideally passive, as retirees are generally not permitted to work under certain visa types.
How much money do retiring UK citizens need to get a residency permit in Spain?
UK citizens need to meet the same financial requirements as other non-EU nationals. For retirees, the Non-Lucrative Visa is often the most accessible option.
It’s worth noting that property ownership does not automatically grant you residency rights. However, owning a home can support your application by demonstrating stability.
If you’re planning to buy a property and live off your pension or savings, these funds must be clearly documented during your visa application.
There are mortgage options available in Spain to non-residents.
Buying a home in Spain as a retiree
Previously property purchase could be a route to Spanish residency with the availability of the Spanish Golden Visa.
Purchasing a property worth €500,000 or more could allow you to qualify for the Spanish Golden Visa. However, the Spanish government has announced that the Golden Visa programme is being phased out.
The best path to residency for retirees in Spain
The most straightforward option for most retirees is the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa.
This visa is designed for non-EU citizens who wish to live in Spain without working. It requires:
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Comprehensive private health insurance
- No criminal record
- Proof of accommodation in Spain
The Non-Lucrative Visa is initially granted for one year and can be renewed for two-year periods thereafter. After five years of continuous residency, you can apply for permanent residency.
Start your new life in Spain
For most retirees, the Non-Lucrative Visa remains the easiest and most accessible path to Spanish residency.
While the Golden Visa option via property purchase is being phased out, retirees who can demonstrate stable finances and secure private healthcare will find Spain’s immigration system relatively welcoming.
With careful planning, professional advice, and clear documentation, you can secure your visa and start your new chapter in one of the most beautiful and liveable countries in the world.
National Geographic's favourite hidden cove in Barcelona
Just 90 minutes from Barcelona, nestled among the cliffs and pine forests of the Costa Brava, lies Cala Sa Tuna, the cove that’s captured the attention of National Geographic. Described by the publication as “the Costa Brava cove embraced by colourful seaside houses,” it remains a peaceful retreat steeped in fishing tradition and unspoilt natural beauty, charmingly untouched by time or mass tourism.
Feria de Malaga 2025: the August fair's events and highlights
Málaga is often seen simply as the gateway to the Costa del Sol, but the city has a character all its own. It's a place with some serious historical weight, where you can trace the steps of Roman and Moorish civilisations through the old town's streets. At the same time, it’s the birthplace of Picasso, and that artistic energy is a core part of its identity. This blend of deep-rooted Andalusian tradition and a cosmopolitan outlook is what defines the city, and nowhere is this more vividly on
Finding your spot: the safest areas to stay in Barcelona
Barcelona is a city that’s easy to fall for, and it’s a brilliant place to spend some time. If you're heading over for a short visit, a study term, or are just testing the waters by renting a room for a while, then getting to grips with the safest areas to stay in Barcelona is a huge part of the puzzle. Getting the right spot to set up camp can really make all the difference to your stay, helping you get under the skin of this brilliant Catalan city.
Beyond the resorts: areas to avoid in Tenerife & authentic alternatives
Tenerife is a real place of contrasts with its stark volcanic heart, lush northern valleys and sunny southern coastline. It’s a year-round favourite for a reason, and most visits are completely trouble-free. However, like any destination that draws big crowds, some parts might not offer the experience you’re looking for. A few areas can feel overwhelmingly commercial, while others are perhaps best avoided if you're after a quiet, authentic stay. Knowing about these specific areas to avoid in
Things to do in Benalmádena: beaches, the pueblo and top attractions
Benalmádena is a popular spot on the Costa del Sol, located in the province of Málaga. You won't run out of things to do in Benalmádena as the town is split into three very different areas, each with heaps going on. You have Benalmádena Costa, which has long sandy beaches and the well-known Puerto Marina. Further inland and connecting the areas is Arroyo de la Miel, which feels more like a lived-in Spanish town and acts as the main commercial centre. Then, set back on the hillside, is Benalm
Who owns the Savage Islands? The dispute between Spain and Portugal
Few know that, in the middle of the Atlantic north of the Canary Islands, lies a small, wild archipelago sparking an age-old rivalry. The Savage Islands conceal a territorial dispute stretching back over five centuries. Discover who owns the Savage Islands and all you need to know about this intriguing territory.
Living in Torrox: Costa del Sol's sunniest spot
Located on the eastern stretch of the Costa del Sol, in the Axarquía region, you’ll find Torrox. This whitewashed municipality makes a rather bold claim: to have the best climate in Europe. Its position, sheltered by mountains and moderated by the Mediterranean, creates genuinely mild winters and pleasant summers, making the idea of living in Torrox particularly appealing. Home to around 20,000 people, including a considerable number of international residents from Britain and Germany, which