BLS Los Angeles processed our Spain Non Lucrative Visa (NLV) applications, and we received our passports after three weeks. Our experience involved a few unexpected hurdles, so I’m sharing the details in case it helps others preparing for the process.
Timeline (Backwards)
- Feb 21 2025 – Received a text and email that our passports were ready for pickup.
- Jan 30 2025 – Received our translated and notarized Sworn Letter of Non-Employment. Sent it to BLS L.A.
- Jan 29 2025 – Had our Sworn Letter notarized and sent it to our lawyer for translation.
- Jan 28 2025 –
- Before boarding our flight to Los Angeles, we learned that BLS L.A. required the Motivation Letter or Letter of Intent to be notarized. We got it done at a UPS store near BLS.
- During our appointment, they methodically reviewed my husband’s documents first. When it was my turn, they asked for the same bank statements that were in my husband’s packet, so we had to make copies at $1 per page.
- The agent also asked for a Sworn Letter of Non-Employment, which was not listed in the Consulate’s official requirements. I quickly drafted one on my phone and showed it to the agent, who made some edits. He accepted our applications but placed them on hold (for a fee) until we submitted the notarized and translated Sworn Letter.
- Extra costs:
- $70 per person to hold the application while waiting for missing documents
- $14 per page for photocopies
- $35 per person for Flex Passport pickup
- $10 for SMS notification of passport processing
- Jan 4 – Received our completed NLV folders via DHL, organized and translated by our lawyer, with post-it notes guiding where to sign and insert documents.
- Dec 25 – Scheduled our BLS L.A. appointment for Jan 28, 2025.
- Nov 28 – Received our FBI Apostille and got health insurance approved for both of us (€303/month for two at the more robust plan with no copays or deductibles).
- Nov 5 – Attempted to schedule a Student Visa appointment to switch to an NLV appointment at the consulate but was turned away.
- Oct 1 – Jan 4 – Spent months gathering, notarizing, and translating documents, including FBI reports, medical forms, and financial statements.
- July – August 2024 – Had a free consultation with a lawyer who handled our application, covering Spanish translations, form completion, and TIE appointments.
Questions and Answers
Q1: Was there a specific sworn letter format required by BLS Los Angeles?
“A few applicants recently confirmed that BLS L.A. now has a standard form for the Sworn Letter of Non-Employment. However, notarizing and translating your own version before the appointment is recommended to avoid delays.”
Q2: Did you include a resignation or termination letter?
“Yes, if you are still employed, BLS requires a notarized and translated letter confirming your termination date. The format should state your last working day and that you have notified your employer.”
Q3: How many visa application forms are required?
“The necessary forms include:
- Application for Long-Term Visa (6 pages)
- Form EX-01 (3 pages)
- Form 790 (1 page)
Additionally, some BLS locations may require a Declaración de Descargo de Responsabilidad (a disclaimer form) and a bilingual medical certificate.”
Example Medical Certificate in Spanish and English (For information purposes only, please obtain the official template).
Q4: Which documents need to be translated?
“All official documents must be translated by a sworn translator recognized by the Spanish government. This typically includes:
- Bank statements
- FBI background check
- Medical certificate
- Proof of non-employment
- Any additional documents requested by BLS”
Here you can find Spainguru’s recommended Sworn translators.
Q5: What happens if I don’t have all the required documents during my appointment?
“If you’re missing a document, BLS may allow you to submit your application and hold it for a fee while you gather the missing paperwork. However, it’s best to have everything ready beforehand.”
Comments
“Your post was extremely helpful and informative. I’ve been dealing with so many delays, and reading your experience makes me feel less alone!”
“I’m also applying through BLS L.A. and found this so valuable. Thank you for sharing your process!”
“I hit a snag with my health insurance dates and had to get a new certificate issued. It’s important to double-check that your policy aligns with your expected arrival date in Spain.”
“We live in Arizona and will also be applying at BLS L.A. Thanks for sharing these details!”
“Thank you for breaking this down! We were unsure about the Sworn Letter of Non-Employment but now we know what to expect.”
Conclusion
Applying for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa through BLS Los Angeles requires careful planning and patience. Unexpected requirements—such as the Sworn Letter of Non-Employment—may arise, so being flexible and prepared is crucial.
It’s also important to have notarized and translated copies of all required documents to avoid delays.
BLS charges additional fees for holding applications and making photocopies, so bringing all necessary paperwork can help minimize extra costs.
Consulting with a professional immigration lawyer and checking for updated consulate policies can make the process smoother.
This article is based on personal experience and is not legal advice. Join our community here.
