Last Updated on April 18, 2026 by Bruno Bianchi
Question
As US citizens, we obtained our Spain Non Lucrative Visa: Entry Before Visa Start Date and Early TIE Application? last week (May 2024), which is valid from August 1st to November. Can we enter Spain before August 1st?
If so, are we eligible to apply for the TIE earlier too? Logically, upon entry, we would be short-term visitors. We anticipate leaving Spain and re-entering within the visa’s validity period. We’d appreciate clarification as our plans may need adjustment.
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These are the answers of Spainguru’s Facebook group members:
“Here’s a Q&A article with previous experiences: Can I enter Spain a day earlier than the date on the non lucrative Spain visa passport stamp?“
(Lawyer’s answer) “You have 3 options:
1) Ask the consulate to change the dates.
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Explore Cities →2) Wait until 1st August
3) Come to Spain now as a tourist. Leave and return on 1st August (or later) and get your passport stamps or a Declaration of Entry. This entry will be the start date of your 1 year residency.
You can only start the TIE card fingerprint scan appointment after the 1st August. When your visas are activated.”
Conclusion
For those holding a Spain Non Lucrative Visa and wondering about early entry, you might get problems to obtain your TIE Card if you’ve entered Spain before the start date specified in your visa.
You can potentially enter as a tourist and then exit and re-enter Spain within the visa‘s validity to begin your residency properly.
This approach ensures that all legal requirements are met without compromising the terms of the visa.
It is always recommended to check with the issuing consulate or embassy to clarify any details or potential changes to your travel plans.
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