Last Updated on March 18, 2026 by Bruno Bianchi
We finally received notice from Miami today that our non lucrative Spain visa was approved!!!
Our in person appointment to pick them up is September 28 2023.
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July 17: Visa application received by Miami
Aug 30: (6 1/2 weeks) Miami consulate requests new medical certificates and an extended insurance policy
Sept 5: Submit additional paperwork UPS next day delivery by 10:30
Sep 7: Consulate requests additional financial info
Sept 8: Sent info UPS next day delivery by 10:30
Sep 11: Received email that non lucrative spain visa was approved
Sept 28 In person appointment scheduled at Miami consulate to get Visas
It’s been a LONG process. We started on Feb 9, by ordering FBI background checks. Getting the apostille was the most time consuming part… 16 weeks.
Questions from other users:
Did you wait until you had the FBI check apostilled to submit your application? I think i’ve seen people who have submitted the application before…
Yes. The Miami website says that they needed all forms with the application.
This is why I urge people to use a reputable service. No missing documents, no requests for more information, no delays.
We hired a reputable (nameless) international firm that handles corporate relocations globally, and paid a premium for the service.
What we discovered though was that their English speaking attorneys didn’t provide the tips needed to expedite getting our US FBI background checks and having them apostilled in a timely matter. We literally wasted 5 months waiting for them.
My advise to others is:
Need an immigration lawyer?
Spainguru's vetted lawyers have helped 10,000+ expats with NLV, Digital Nomad, Student, and Golden Visa applications.
See Vetted Lawyers →- Use a US based service or one recommended by US citizens IF you hire one.
- Get Live scans fingerprints and pay an approved FBI channeler for next day background checks.
- Order your own apostille direct from the Department of State (get a tracking number from the mail service)
- Contact a state representative such as Senator or Congressman to help expedite the apostille if there is a legitimate reason to do so.
Author: Anonymous Spainguru community member
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