Retirement in Spain – Complete Guide to Living Your Best Life in 2025

Retiring in Spain is a dream for thousands of Europeans and international expats every year. With warm weather, affordable living, excellent healthcare and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, Spain is one of the best retirement destinations in the world.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know from visas to healthcare to the best places to retire in Spain.

To understand everyday costs, see:
👉 The cost of living in Spain

Why Retire in Spain?

Spain offers a quality of life that is hard to beat. Many retirees choose Spain for:

• Sunny weather all year

• Affordable living and lower costs than Northern Europe

• One of the world’s best healthcare systems

• Safe cities and welcoming communities

• Excellent beaches, food and cultural events

For full details on healthcare:
👉 Healthcare in Spain

Spain Retirement Visa – Residency Options for Retirees

To live in Spain full-time as a retiree, you will need residency – usually through the Spain retirement visa, officially called the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV).

Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)

This visa allows retirees to live in Spain as long as they can show stable income without working in the country.

Visa Requirements

• Proof of income (pension, savings, investments)

• Clean criminal record

• Private health insurance

• Valid passport

Financial Requirements

Applicants must show sufficient financial means to support themselves without employment.

For rules about working under certain visas:
👉 Read more about working in Spain

Renewal & Long-term Residency

The NLV can be renewed and can lead to long-term residency after five years.

Best Places to Retire in Spain

Spain is full of attractive retirement locations – but some stand out:

Costa del Sol

Perfect for sun lovers. Popular towns: Marbella, Estepona, Fuengirola.

Costa Blanca

Affordable living, warm climate and strong expat communities.

Valencia

Known for excellent healthcare, beaches and cultural life.

Mallorca

Great for those who prefer island living with excellent transport links.

Málaga

A vibrant city with top museums, beaches and great year-round weather.

See all properties for sale

Cost of Living for Retirees in Spain

Spain offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to the UK, Scandinavia and much of Western Europe. Typical costs include:

• Rent or property purchase

• Healthcare/private insurance

• Transport

• Groceries & dining

• Leisure activities

Healthcare in Spain for Retirees

Spain has one of Europe’s top healthcare systems. Retirees may access:

Public Healthcare

EU citizens may qualify via S1 forms or other arrangements.

Private Healthcare

Affordable and high quality, ideal for fast access and English-speaking doctors.

Non-EU Requirements

Non-EU retirees must show private insurance for their visa.

👉 Read more about the healthcare in Spain here

Lifestyle, Social Life & Integration

Retirement in Spain offers:

• Large expat communities

• Language schools and cultural centers

• A relaxed, outdoors-focused lifestyle

• Festivals, food markets, local clubs

If you’re relocating with family and want to understand school options:
👉 Education in Spain

Step-by-Step Guide to Retiring in Spain

1. Choose where you want to live
2. Apply for the Spain retirement visa
3. Secure healthcare coverage
4. Set up finances & long-term planning
5. Move and integrate into your new community

Retirement in Spain offers an outstanding quality of life – warm weather, great healthcare, strong communities and affordable living. Whether you prefer calm seaside towns or vibrant cities, Spain has a perfect retirement destination for everyone.

FAQ – Retirement in Spain

Is Spain a good place to retire?

Yes. Spain is consistently ranked among the best retirement destinations due to weather, healthcare, safety and affordability.

What is the Spain retirement visa?

It refers to the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV), which allows retirees to live in Spain without working.

What are the best places to retire in Spain?

Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Valencia, Mallorca and Málaga are top choices for international retirees.

Is healthcare good for retirees in Spain?

Yes. Spain offers excellent public and private healthcare with high standards and affordable costs.

How much money do you need to retire in Spain?

Requirements vary, but retirees typically need stable passive income and proof of financial means.