Navigating the process of obtaining a Spain Non Lucrative visa (NLV) can be daunting, especially when applying through the New York Consulate. This interview provides a detailed account of one individual’s successful application, offering insights and practical advice for others considering this path.
Where and when did you apply for the Spain non lucrative Visa?
I applied in New York City, just recently in June of this year.
How old are you?
I am 36.
What initially prompted you to apply for the non-lucrative Visa?
I took a look at my career in Corporate America and realized the level of burnout I was feeling. I wanted to step back, re-evaluate my life and career, and find a way to immerse myself in a new place, culture, and pace. When I did some research on different visas in the EU, I stumbled upon the NLV.
What were the most important documents required for the NLV application?
Proof of funding was crucial. I used a high-yield savings account to show I had the necessary funds, alongside my checking account statements to ensure the money wasn’t funded by someone else. They needed three months of savings and checking account statements.
How did you handle the health insurance requirement?
I found the health insurance part to be the easiest. I compared different companies and ended up with Citus, which offered the best rates. My medical status is fairly simple, and at my age, it was straightforward to ensure I picked the right plan for the visa. [Here you can find our recommended health insurance brokers]
How did you manage to provide the medical certificate?
I used a template from another consulate, which my doctor reviewed and signed during an annual checkup. It was a straightforward process.
What about the FBI background check?
The fingerprinting and getting the apostille were easy, though the fingerprint scanning took longer than expected. I used a digital service to handle the apostille, which streamlined the process.
How did you go about gathering and preparing your application materials?
I created a timeline and outlined what would take the most time. The FBI apostille and translations were the longest parts of the process. I worked backward from my hoped-for appointment date, knowing I needed all documents in place before asking for an appointment. This planning made the process smoother, though it took about four to five months overall.
Did you apply for yourself or with someone else? Did you need any additional documents like a marriage or birth certificate?
I applied with my husband, so we needed a marriage certificate. As newlyweds, we had to go to City Hall, get the certificate stamped by the city clerk, and then get it apostilled. This involved a bit of running around but was manageable. We didn’t need a birth certificate as we have no children.
Did you face any unexpected challenges during the application process?
The biggest challenge was during our first consulate appointment. We were asked for additional documentation to show we wouldn’t be working. Due to a miscommunication, we only provided documentation for me, the primary applicant, not my husband. This led to a dismissal of our application, not a denial, but we had to reapply and get a new appointment, which delayed the process.
What tips can you offer for navigating the appointment and interview process at the consulate?
Be sincere and honest with your answers, especially when explaining why you want to move and what you plan to do in Spain. Use the last few minutes of the appointment to appeal your case for the visa. This is crucial as it’s your opportunity to make a personal connection with the consular officer.
What documentation did you provide to ensure acceptance?
We provided a notarized affidavit of no work and proof from my employer that I wouldn’t be working in Spain. Both my husband and I had to provide these documents to clarify our intentions.
Did you use the services of a lawyer or consultant, or did you manage everything on your own?
We worked with a consultant who provided insights and tips, but we handled most of the process on our own. [Here you can find our recommended immigration experts]
How important was the Spainguru’s Non-Lucrative Visa Facebook group during the process?
The Spainguru’s NLV Facebook group was incredibly helpful. It was a great place to check others’ experiences and set expectations, especially since many New Yorkers were going through the same process. It provided a sense of support and community.
What would you have done differently in your application process knowing what you know now?
I would have streamlined the process and not taken so much time. We didn’t need five months to prepare everything, and the extended preparation period felt burdensome. Knowing what I know now, we could have completed everything in one or two months.
How long did the entire process take from start to finish?
From start to finish, it took five months. We started acquiring documents in February, ensuring the 90-day validity for some items, and had our first appointment in May. Our second appointment was in June, and the process took two weeks from that point.
How far in advance did you choose your date to move to Spain, and did the consulate respect that choice?
We chose a date three months in advance, and the consulate was very receptive to our chosen date, with no issues.
What advice would you give to someone just starting to consider applying for the Spanish non-lucrative Visa?
If you want to do something different with your life and start a new chapter, go for it. The worst thing that can happen is that you’re denied. The process is daunting and scary, but it’s a fantastic experience that will teach you a lot about yourself and your resilience. It’s more than just buying an airplane ticket; it’s about embracing a new way of life.
How did you handle the consideration of taxes in your decision-making process?
We haven’t sought advice on taxes yet since we won’t be under any tax requirements this year. We’ll address this once we’re settled and looking at the next year. It’s definitely something on my mind, though. [Here you can find our recommended tax experts]
