How to Apply for the Minimum Vital Income in Barcelona (2026)
Cost
Free
Free. The amount ranges from €470 to €1,182 per month depending on the household unit.
Time at office
0 minutes (online process)
Estimated time
3-6 months for resolution
Quick summary
Complete guide to applying for the MVI (Minimum Vital Income) in Barcelona, Catalonia. Requirements, amounts, documentation and how to apply online in 2026.
Required documents
-
DNI, NIE or passport valid
For all members of the household unit over 14 years old.
-
Residence certificate
To prove legal residence in Spain for all members of the household unit.
-
Bank account details (IBAN)
Bank account in the name of the applicant for receiving the payment.
- ?
Previous year's tax declaration (if applicable) Optional
Tax data is shared automatically, but it’s useful to have it available for verification.
⚠️ If a previous year's tax declaration was submitted - ?
Family book or birth certificate Optional
To prove the composition of the household unit with minors.
⚠️ If there are minors in the household unit
: 2026
Step by step
- 1
Check Eligibility Requirements
Go to official siteThe MVI is aimed at people in economic vulnerability. Main requirements: be between 23 and 65 years old (or a minor with dependent children), legally reside in Spain for the previous year, and household income not exceeding the established threshold.
!Expert tip
"The Social Security has an online simulator in Importass to check eligibility before applying."
- 2
Apply Online via Importass
Go to official siteThe application is fully online through the Importass portal. You can identify with Cl@ve, digital certificate or DNIe. The form automatically fills in data that Social Security already has on you.
!Expert tip
"If you don't have digital identification, you can request a phone call from INSS to help with the process. Call 060 for this service."
- 3
Attach Required Documentation
Scan and attach the required documents in the online form. The system indicates exactly what is missing if any are still pending.
!Expert tip
"The Social Security can automatically obtain residence, tax data from other administrations. Not always do you need to upload them."
- 4
Wait for Resolution
Legal resolution time frame is 3 months but may vary according to INSS workload. You will receive a SMS and email notification. If there’s no resolution in 3 months, the silent administrative decision is positive (deemed granted provisionally).
!Expert tip
"You can check your application status at any time on Importass. You’ll also get certified mail when it’s resolved."
Offices and service points - Barcelona
INSS — National Institute of Social Security (online and phone)
Online process in Importass. Phone support: 060
Frequently asked questions
How much money does the Minimum Vital Income give in 2026?
Is the Minimum Vital Income compatible with working?
Can an entrepreneur apply for the Minimum Vital Income?
Can a foreigner apply for the MVI?
What happens if my income increases after receiving the MVI?
Official sources and useful links
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.