Veterans in Spain
The Non-Lucrative Visa, the Navy community at Rota, and a big English-speaking expat base on the Costa del Sol.
Entering Spain
Schengen rules: 90 days in any 180 without a visa. The EU Entry/Exit System is running. ETIAS pre-travel authorization has not started yet and no firm date has been set.
Long-stay and retirement visas
- Non-Lucrative Visa (no work): 400% of Spain's IPREM index, EUR 2,400/month (EUR 28,800/year) plus EUR 600/month per dependent. Private Spanish health insurance with no co-pays is required.
VA care and benefits in Spain
No VA medical facility. FMP toll-free in Spain: 900-981-776. A Social Security Federal Benefits Unit is in Madrid.
Healthcare
Very good public system. Non-Lucrative visa holders start on private insurance.
Where veterans live
- El Puerto de Santa María / Rota: Navy community.
- Valencia: Value and climate.
- Málaga / Costa del Sol: Large English-speaking expat base.
- Seville: Near Morón Air Base.
Cost of living
Roughly USD 1,600–1,850 a month. Costs vary a lot by city and lifestyle. Health insurance is not included.
Money, language and time
Euro (EUR) · Spanish · UTC+1
Buying property
No restrictions on foreign ownership.
Watch out for
Spain taxes worldwide income for residents. Get tax advice before you move.
Veteran organizations
American Legion posts under the Department of France. See veteran organizations abroad.
Common questions
How much income do I need for Spain's Non-Lucrative Visa?
EUR 2,400 a month (EUR 28,800 a year) for the main applicant, plus EUR 600 a month per dependent.
Last reviewed November 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.