Last Updated on March 18, 2026 by Bruno Bianchi
Do the Manchester and Edinburgh Consulates allow non lucrative Spain visa applicants to retain their passports during visa processing, unlike the London Consulate?
Question
Do the Manchester and Edinburgh Consulates let you keep your passport during visa processing, unlike the London Consulate?
Has anyone applied at the London Consulate (BLS) and kept their passport for travel during visa processing?
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These are the answers of some Facebook group members:
“I applied for the non lucrative Spain visa in London on July 20th and was asked if I wanted to keep my passport and go back to the consulate to have the visa put in. I had a flight booked for 28th Aug, I provided proof of flight and was told it would take 15 to 21 days, so I left it with them. It arrived on Friday after a of phone calls and stress and threats to my whole application process hindsight and all that.”
”This is my dilemma, as I also have flights booked in October, so I would rather return in person to collect it. Bearing in mind that some here are waiting a good 10 weeks”
”I applied at London, and was able to hold onto my passport too as I wrote a letter explaining my reasons why I had to book a flight way in advance of applying for an appointment and provided proof of my ferry ticket I really didn’t expect to get the visa in time and was fully prepared to have to fly back to London for the vías once it was processed However to my astonishment I got my email from the consulate just 12 working days later Well done London office and thank you”
Conclusion
In conclusion, according to Spainguru Facebook group members, non lucrative Spain visa applicants at the London Consulate (BLS) have sometimes been allowed to retain their passports during visa processing if they can provide proof of imminent travel plans and a letter explaining their situation. Processing times vary, with some experiencing quicker results than others. However, this option may depend on individual circumstances and consulate discretion.
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