What is a non-lucrative Spanish visa?
A non-lucrative Spanish visa is designed for individuals who wish to reside in Spain without engaging in any work or professional activities. This type of visa is particularly popular among retirees or those who have sufficient means to support themselves without the need for employment. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must demonstrate they have enough financial resources to live in Spain for the duration of their stay, which includes proving a stable income or substantial savings.
The non-lucrative visa does not permit any form of employment in Spain; however, it allows the holder to live, study, and even bring certain family members under the same visa type. It is typically granted for one year initially and can be renewed biennially provided the visa conditions are continuously met, including maintaining the required financial threshold.
General Costs of Applying for a non-lucrative Spanish visa
Applying for a non-lucrative visa involves several types of costs that applicants need to be aware of. These generally include the visa application fee itself, administrative fees charged by consulates or external service providers, and additional costs for services such as legal advice, document translation, and apostille certification.
- Visa Application Fee: This is the primary charge imposed by the consulate for processing the visa application.
- Administrative Fees: These may include charges for processing documents, handling applications, or courier services to send and receive necessary paperwork.
- Service Fees: Applicants may also need to pay for SMS updates, photography, and other miscellaneous services provided during the application process.
Machester Consulate / Manchester BLS Office example (March 2024)
Each consulate may have a different fee structure based on the local administrative setup and services offered. For instance, applicants from the UK and USA will encounter variations in the total cost due to differences in service fees and administrative handling.
Detailed Cost Breakdown
To provide clarity on the costs associated with obtaining a non-lucrative Spanish visa, here is a detailed breakdown of the fees from both UK and USA consulates. This table illustrates the specific charges applicants can expect to incur:
| Consulate Location | Visa Fee (GBP/USD) | SMS Service | Courier | Photography | BLS Service Fee | Residence Authorization (Form 790 code 052) | Total Cost (GBP/USD) |
|---|
| UK Consulates | 525.400 £ | 1.95 £ | 29.99 £ | 10 £ | 14.55 £ | N/A | 567.34 £ |
| USA Consulates (US Citizens) | 140 USD | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 12 USD | 152 USD |
Explanation of Each Cost Component:
- Visa Fee: This is the base cost of processing the visa application.
- SMS Service: Some consulates offer updates via SMS for an additional fee.
- Courier: Fees for next-day delivery services if required.
- Photography: Charges for passport-sized photographs that meet the consulate’s specifications.
- BLS Service Fee: Administrative fees charged by BLS International (Outsourcing service)for handling the application in UK consulates.
Last update: July 2024 – Prices can change without prior notification, please check the official consulate price list. Prices vary depending on the nationality of the applicant.
Additional Expenses to Consider
Beyond the basic fees associated with the visa application itself, there are several other costs that potential applicants should prepare for when planning their non-lucrative visa application:
- Legal Fees: Hiring a lawyer or a legal advisor to ensure the application complies with all requirements can add to the cost. Legal fees vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and the professional’s rates. Contant our recommended Lawyers here.
- Document Translation and Legalization: All documents not in Spanish must be officially sworn translated and legalized. This includes police clearance certificates, medical reports, and financial statements. The cost for each document can range from £40 to £55, depending on the document type and the translator’s fees.
- Health Insurance: Applicants must have adequate health insurance covered by a provider that operates in Spain. Costs can range significantly based on age, health status, and the extent of coverage, with annual premiums potentially reaching £1,500 to £3,000 /1900-3800 USD for comprehensive coverage. Here are our recommended NLV Compliant health insurances.
- Financial Proof Requirements: Demonstrating sufficient financial means can involve obtaining and legalizing financial documents, including bank statements and pension letters. These also sometimes require translation and potentially notarization.
Given these additional costs, the total expense of applying for a non-lucrative visa can be considerable. Applicants should ensure they have a clear understanding of all potential fees to avoid any surprises during the application process.
Comparison of Costs Between UK and USA Consulates
The cost of applying for a non-lucrative visa can vary significantly between different consular locations, notably between UK and USA consulates. This variation stems primarily from the different administrative and service fees imposed at each location, as well as the cost of additional services like legal representation and document processing which can differ by region.
UK Consulates typically have higher visa fees and additional service charges, as seen in the detailed cost breakdown. The comprehensive services offered, such as SMS updates and courier services, add to the total cost, reflecting a more service-oriented approach to handling visa applications.
USA Consulates, on the other hand, tend to have lower base visa fees but may also incur costs from required services not directly included in the visa application fee, such as mandatory health insurance and document legalization fees. The total cost for US citizens reflects a streamlined fee structure but does not account for the additional expenses that can accumulate from the necessary legal and administrative requirements.
Tips for Planning Your Application
Navigating the financial aspects of applying for a non-lucrative visa can be daunting. Here are some practical tips to help you manage the costs effectively and ensure a smooth application process:
- Budget Carefully: Before starting your application, create a detailed budget that includes all potential costs — from visa fees to unexpected legal fees. This will help you avoid financial surprises and ensure you have the necessary funds available.
- Consult Professionals: Consider hiring a visa consultant or immigration lawyer who specializes in Spanish visas. They can provide valuable insights into the cost-effective ways to handle your application and potentially avoid unnecessary expenses.
- Understand the Total Cost: Be aware of all possible expenses, not just the visa fee. This includes health insurance, document legalization, and translation costs. Knowing these can help you assess the total financial requirement more accurately.
- Prepare for Variability: Costs can vary not only by location but also by applicant circumstances. For example, additional documentation might be required if you have dependents, which could increase the cost.
- Check for Updates: Visa fees and requirements can change. Regularly check the consulate’s website or contact them directly to get the most current information, which will help you plan more effectively.
By following these tips, you can better prepare for the financial aspect of your visa application and reduce the risk of unexpected challenges.
Conclusion
Understanding the full cost of obtaining a non-lucrative Spanish visa is crucial for anyone considering this path to residency in Spain. The process involves various fees and expenses, from the application fee itself to additional costs for legal and administrative services. By carefully planning and budgeting for these expenses, potential applicants can enhance their chances of a successful visa application and a smooth transition to life in Spain. Whether applying through UK or USA consulates, being well-informed and prepared is key to navigating the process successfully.
Approximate Cost Breakdown for Non-Lucrative Visa at UK Consulate
| Service/Expense | Cost (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Application Related | ||
| SMS Service | 1.95£ | |
| Visa Fee | 525.40£ | |
| Courier (Next Day) | 29.99£ | |
| Photography Service | 10.00£ | |
| BLS Service Fee | 14.55£ | |
| Subtotal (Direct Application Costs) | 581.89£ | |
| Discount for Online Payment | (-) 14.55£ | |
| Amount to be Paid (After Discount) | 567.34£ | |
| Additional Required Expenses | ||
| Police Criminal Records Check (ACRO) | 55.00£ | Valid for 6 months |
| Medical Certificate from Local GP | 60.00£ | Valid for 3 months |
| ACRO & Medical Certificate to be Apostilled | 60.00£ | Legalisation Office |
| Translation and Apostille for ACROs | 65.00£ | Sworn translator |
| Health Insurance (yearly total) | 1500.00£ | |
| Total Cost with Health Insurance | 2301.34£ | |
| Total Cost without Health Insurance | 801.34£ |
Cost Breakdown for Non-Lucrative Visa at USA Consulate
| Service/Expense | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Application Related | ||
| Visa Fee | 140$ | |
| Residence Authorization (Form 790 code 052) | 12$ | |
| Subtotal (Direct Application Costs) | 152$ | |
| Additional Required Expenses | Converted from GBP and rounded up | |
| FBI Background check | 25$ | Valid for 6 months |
| Medical Certificate from Local Doctor | 100$ | Valid for 3 months |
| Apostilles | 110$ | Legalisation Office |
| Sworn Translations | 200$ | Sworn translator |
| Health Insurance (yearly total) | 1500$ | |
| Total Cost with Health Insurance | 2087$ | Includes direct application and additional costs |
| Total Cost without Health Insurance | 587$ | Excludes health insurance premium |
Disclaimer: The figures provided in this article are for informational purposes only. They are based on reported costs from community members of Spainguru for one applicant, and official sources as of the year 2024. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the actual costs of a non-lucrative visa application can vary depending on a number of factors, including changes in government fees, currency fluctuations, and individual circumstances. Spainguru does not guarantee that these will be the total costs for your non-lucrative visa application. Applicants are strongly advised to check official consulate resources and confirm the current requirements and fees before proceeding with their application.
