Is it better to apply separately or together for the non lucrative Spain visa?

By
Bruno Bianchi
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Question about a joint non lucrative Spain visa application

My husband and I will be applying for the non lucrative Spain visa soon and I’m trying to figure out whether we should apply separately or one should be the main applicant and the other named as a dependent. We’ll have enough income to go either way, but we definitely want to file taxes separate once we’re there. Any advice whether to file separately or have one as a dependent?

Answers

These are the answers of some Facebook group members:

“Apply as family. One be the main and the second the dependent. So much easier, less expensive now and when you renew in the future.”

“I would suggest applying as a couple although if you have the funds you can do as you please. The only differences when applying as a couple are that you have to show less funds (held by either or both of you) – and therefore when renewing you would have to demonstrate around 70000 euros rather than 114000 – but also that all you have to do is include an apostilled marriage certificate. To be clear, how you file taxes later on is irrelevant to your application for a visa. When making your tax declaration you have to tick a box which states your civil status, so you will state that you are both married. Then every year you can file separately or together depending on which option is more beneficial to you. Your accountant will present you with two figures, the tax owing if filing separately and the tax owing if you file together, and you would normally choose the lower of course. The way that the tax is calculated changes each year so that some years you may find it better one way, and other years, the other. This has no relevance to your visa renewal or anything else.”

“We applied separately so if anything happened to either of us, the other would have his/her visa independently. Our non lucrative Spain visa are independent of each other and use separate proof of financial means. It also worked out better for us as my husband moved to Spain earlier than I did. It’s really up to the OP and what they feel suits their situation best.”

“Up to you, really and as for taxes it may be beneficial to file together rather than seperately so really makes no difference either way”

In conclusion, when applying for a non lucrative Spain visa, it’s possible to apply as a couple with one person being the main applicant and the other named as a dependent or apply separately. The choice will depend on your personal situation and preference. Spainguru’s Facebook group members suggest that applying as a couple is easier, less expensive, and makes the renewal process in the future simpler. Other members suggest that applying separately can have some benefits such as independence of visas in case something happens to either of the applicants. As for taxes, it’s up to the applicants to decide whether to file separately or together, and it’s best to consult with an accountant to know which option is more beneficial to them. It’s important to note that the way that the tax is calculated changes each year so that some years you may find it better one way, and other years, the other. This has no relevance to your visa renewal or anything else, and it’s always best to check with the official source for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

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