This firsthand experience at the Boston consulate offers insights into the Spain Non Lucrative Visa process, highlighting document preparation and appointment tips.
“This group was very helpful when I was collecting information so thank you all very much. I wanted to share the details of our appointment in Boston this morning for hubby and I as they don’t go through BLS and the requirements are slightly different than other locations. Very pleasant staff and painless experience.
We went up to the counter and presented our documents per applicant. For each document, she requested a copy including all 3 forms (Ex01, Application and Modelo 790). Only the first page of the Modelo 790 form was requested. Picture page of passport only, not the rest of the passport.
For docs that were translated, she requested a copy of the English version plus a copy of the Spanish translation which means that for the background check you needed 4 for each applicant: the original + copy + sworn translation + copy.
For the financial reports, we made a cover page summarizing the funds and the accounts mentioning they were readily available. She looked at all the reports but just took the summary balance page for each account. Only a set of financial docs for both of us.
For the marriage certificate, copy of apostilled original and copy of Spanish translation for each applicant (only 1 apostilled marriage certificate for both). For the lease (already in Spanish), 1 copy for each applicant.
For the tax records, she looked at the last 3 years of taxes but only took the first 2 pages of each year for each applicant (even though the website says “complete” 3-year tax returns). Only 1 money order of $151 per applicant (application + modelo).
After submitting everything, we waited for 10 minutes and she came back with the originals and the application and modelo receipts as well as our passports. She said she would email us when she had an answer from Spain.
Some remarks:
- The Modelo 790 address is the USA address even though it normally should be the Spanish address and that’s because the consulate is applying and paying on your behalf ($11).
- Only 1 passport picture needed.
- We used translations from Alba (highly recommended), medical certificate with a doctor in Spain recommended by Spainguru (clear bilingual form), and Adeslas with Spainguru’s recommended agent. Extremely happy with all 3.
- There is a paid parking lot across the street from the consulate.
Voila! Now the wait begins. Good luck to everybody!”
Questions and Answers
Q: Is it required to translate bank statements and tax returns?
A: No. Just submit them as is.
Link to bank statements translations article.
Q: Any trick to getting an appointment at the Boston consulate?
A: I emailed every week or so. Be persistent. Let them know that you already have your documents or that they are close to expiring.
I remember not getting a response when I said, “We are waiting for the docs.” They only responded when I had everything ready or said I was ready to submit.
Q: What if I have everything except the translations?
A: It’s best to wait until you have all your apostilled and translated documents before reaching out again. Once everything is ready, send them promptly.
Comments
“Nice!!”
“Thank you so much for the info!”
“We are approaching our appointment and this is very helpful.”
“Thank you for the info.”
“This is very helpful. We’re also applying from Boston and now feel better prepared.”
Conclusion
The Boston Consulate offers a smooth and well-structured process for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa, with key differences compared to BLS-managed consulates. Applicants should:
- Bring copies of every document, including English originals and Spanish translations.
- Summarize financial documents with a cover sheet.
- Provide only essential pages for taxes and passport.
- Use one apostilled marriage certificate for both spouses.
- Expect a personal and efficient appointment process.
- Be persistent and proactive when booking an appointment—follow up regularly and only when documents are complete.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on the contributions and experiences of Spainguru community members and is no legal advice. Consider consulting a legal expert for personalized guidance.
