Follow this step-by-step roadmap to secure your Non-Lucrative Visa for Spain. Each phase includes the documents, timelines, and actions required.
Phase 1: Preparation (Weeks 1-6)
Week 1-2: Assess Your Eligibility
- Calculate your passive income: €2,400/month minimum (€28,800/year)
- + €600/month for each additional family member
- Identify your income sources: pension, rental income, dividends, savings
- Choose your Spanish consulate (based on your legal residence)
Week 3-4: Gather Documents
- Valid passport + copies of all pages
- Passport-sized photos (x4)
- Birth certificate (apostilled and translated)
- Marriage certificate (if bringing spouse)
- Children’s birth certificates (if applicable)
Week 5-6: Financial Documents
- Bank statements for the last 12 months (original + copy)
- Pension statements (public and private)
- Rental income contracts and deposit proofs
- Investment portfolio statements
- Tax returns for the last 2 years
- Letter from bank confirming balances (on official letterhead)
Phase 2: Application (Weeks 7-12)
Week 7: Health Insurance
- Purchase private health insurance with full coverage in Spain
- No co-pays, no deductibles, no pre-existing condition exclusions
- Policy must be valid from the first day of your intended stay
Week 8-9: Legalise Documents
- Apostille all documents from Hague Convention countries
- Sworn translate all foreign documents into Spanish
- Obtain medical certificate from licensed physician
- Obtain criminal record certificate (apostilled + translated)
Week 10-11: Consulate Appointment
- Book appointment at your local Spanish consulate
- Submit EX-01 application form + all original documents + 2 copies
- Pay Tasa 790-052 visa fee (~€80-120)
- Provide proof of accommodation in Spain (rental contract or property deed)
Week 12 onward: Await Decision (2-4 months)
Track your application status. If approved, you must enter Spain within 3 months of visa issuance.
Phase 3: Arrival (Within 30 Days)
- Register for the padrón (municipal census) at your local ayuntamiento
- Apply for the TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) at the immigration office
- Open a Spanish bank account
- Register for public healthcare (if eligible) or maintain private insurance
- Apply for a Spanish driving license (if applicable)
Phase 4: Renewal (Before Expiry)
- Apply 60 days before NLV expiry date
- Prove continued income and health insurance
- Must have spent at least 183 days/year in Spain
- First renewal: valid for 2 years. Second renewal: valid for 2 years. Then apply for long-term residence.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.