Introduction
While most Spain Non Lucrative Visa applications come from countries like the US, UK, Canada, or Australia, a recent case from our Spainguru community shows how the process can also run smoothly from Tel Aviv, Israel. In this interview, our member shares their step-by-step experience—from appointment booking to document preparation—and offers practical tips for applicants, especially those coming from countries with lower application volumes.
Tel Aviv Spain Non Lucrative Visa official page
Background
Our Spainguru community member, in their mid-30s, decided to apply for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa through the Spanish Consulate in Tel Aviv. Unlike many younger applicants who face extra scrutiny over their employment status or intent to work, they report that the consulate did not ask any questions about job history, current employment, or future work plans. The cover letter clearly stated there was no intention to engage in any gainful activity in Spain, in full compliance with visa conditions.
Application Process and Timeline
Direct Consulate Appointment
In Israel, there is no third-party service like BLS International. Applications go directly through the Spanish Consulate. The appointment was booked and attended in person without using a lawyer or visa agency, relying instead on guidance from friends and online resources.
Document Preparation
The only document initially forgotten was Form 790, the visa fee payment form. It was completed on-site at the consulate.
Financial Means – Average Balance Requirement
One main concern was the proof of financial means, particularly the “average balance” requirement for the previous year.
- The bank could not issue a yearly average balance letter but did provide quarterly balances in Hebrew.
- These were translated via a sworn translator, and a self-calculated annual average was included in a cover letter explaining that the bank could not provide the exact document requested.
- 12 months of bank statements were also submitted, which the consulate accepted without issue.
It appears the Tel Aviv consulate is more flexible than high-volume consulates in countries like the US or UK.
Address in Spain
The consulate only asked which region the applicant planned to move to, not for an exact address or rental contract. Stating the intended location was sufficient.
Medical Certificate
The applicant brought a medical certificate of good health from their family doctor, following the standard template.
Additionally, they obtained an official letter from the Israeli Ministry of Health confirming the doctor’s license and right to practice medicine in Israel, complete with stamps and signatures.
Health Insurance
Private health insurance was arranged to start on the same date as the requested visa start date—October 1 2025.
Criminal Record Check
In Israel, the criminal record certificate is sent directly to the Spanish consulate and cannot be given to the applicant.
- It was ordered about two months before the appointment.
- Once received by the consulate, it was updated, translated, and confirmed to meet requirements.
Letter of Intent
The letter of intent was a friendly, motivational document stating plans to live in Asturias, learn Spanish, and travel within Spain and nearby countries. It did not go into extensive financial or professional detail.
Additional Details
- Visa fees were paid in cash at the consulate.
- Only one passport photo was required.
- The consulate provided a receipt with a website to check application status, although the system only shows when a decision has been made—not whether it’s positive or negative.
- The applicant will return to the consulate to receive the final outcome in person.
Conclusion
This experience shows that applying for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa from Tel Aviv can be straightforward, especially thanks to lower application volumes and more flexible handling of certain requirements. Key takeaways for future applicants include:
- Be prepared to explain any missing or alternative financial documents.
- Align your health insurance start date with your intended visa start date.
- Allow plenty of time for the criminal record certificate process.
- Keep your letter of intent positive and in line with the visa’s non-working conditions.
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.
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