Spain's Social Security system has introduced new rules requiring Spanish pensioners who live abroad to prove they are alive twice a year to keep receiving their payments.
The change, which takes effect from September 1, means expatriate pensioners must now verify their status between January and March, and again in September during 2026.
Failure to complete the process within the required deadlines can lead to the suspension of pension payments.
Previously, the proof of life check was only required once a year. The process is designed to prevent payments from continuing after a beneficiary has died, while the separate requirement to prove fiscal residence remains unchanged.
Increasing checks
The frequency of the checks will increase again next year. In 2027, pensioners living outside Spain will have to prove they are alive three times a year, with deadlines falling in January, May and September.
To complete the checks without travelling to Spain or visiting an office in person, pensioners must use a free mobile application called VIVESS, which was created by the Social Security system specifically for beneficiaries living abroad.
The application uses the camera on a mobile phone to carry out video identification and facial recognition. Users must have an identity document with them and follow the steps on their screen.
Pensioners are advised to ensure they have the correct documents and a compatible smartphone with a camera ready before starting the process, and to monitor the new deadlines closely to avoid losing their income.
