My Spain Non Lucrative Visa appointment with BLS Houston (NLV) was anti-climactic. We arrived, according to the letter, ten minutes early. They were five minutes late opening.
Then they handed me a checklist of everything that they wanted with yes or no, and I circled them all.
I had everything, organized and labeled with page separators with labels in Spanish on one side and English on the other, translations and copies marked accordingly.
She just took my giant binder, then she came back, gave me my mostly empty binder and a receipt, and that was it.
About 30 minutes total. Eight weeks for an answer.
Questions and Answers
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Q: Is a Spanish address mandatory at Houston BLS?
A: Yes, it is mandatory. There are signs at Houston BLS stating you MUST have an address, even Airbnb or hotel. One applicant reserved a VRBO for three months with a refundable deposit.
Q: Do you need a lease, or will a short-term rental suffice?
A: A short-term rental like VRBO or Airbnb is accepted. It is advised to choose a listing with a flexible cancellation policy.
Q: Do both spouses need their own set of documents, including marriage certificates?
A: Yes. Each person applying must have their own certified and apostilled marriage certificate and all documents translated individually.
Q: How many months of bank statements are required?
A: For Houston, 12 months of statements are required, even if other consulates may only ask for 3.
Q: Can I book a place and cancel it after visa approval?
A: Yes, many applicants reserve a property with a refundable deposit and cancel after approval if needed.
Q: Did you punch holes in your paperwork?
A: No. All documents were inserted in plastic sleeves, labeled clearly, and presented in an organized binder.
Q: If your name has changed (e.g. maiden vs married name), is that an issue?
A: It shouldn’t be an issue. Names on marriage certificates often differ. Just make sure your documents are consistent and correctly translated.
Q: Can I find the checklist used at Houston BLS?
A: Yes. A checklist from Houston BLS was shared and includes items like address in Spain, proof of income, insurance, and personal documentation.
Q: If I live in Louisiana, can I apply in Houston?
A: Yes. Houston serves applicants from TX, OK, LA, AR, MS, and TN.
Comments
“This is what they do at the initial delivery of the documents. The front desk doesn’t analyze them—they just collect and forward them. If something’s missing, you’ll get an email.”
“Possibly the most useful post I’ve seen here! The checklist photos were extremely helpful.”
“Thanks for the update! We’re planning our appointment at Houston next week and will follow your binder tips.”
“Great info! Also helpful to know about the one-year bank statement rule—other consulates are less strict.”
“I saved the checklist pictures and will follow this exact method.”
Conclusion
The Spain Non Lucrative Visa process at the Houston BLS appears to be orderly yet strict, with clear expectations. Applicants should come well prepared with all documents, organized and clearly labeled.
A Spanish address—whether long-term or temporary—is mandatory, and 12 months of bank statements are required. The consulate expects each applicant to have complete individual documentation.
A well-prepared binder, preferably with documents in plastic sleeves, seems to facilitate a smooth submission. Booking accommodations with flexible cancellation policies can be a strategic approach. Expect around an eight-week wait for results.
Disclaimer: this article is based on personal experience and is not legal advice. Check official requirements and consult with experts.
