An anonymous Spainguru community member shared their September 2025 experience applying for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa (NLV) at the San Francisco Consulate.
They arrived about 10 minutes before their 8:30 a.m. appointment and were seen immediately. The couple was able to combine their appointments and sit together at the same desk, with one going first and the other submitting documents afterward.
The assigned agent was described as warm, friendly, and humorous, yet also clear, organized, and professional. The member had arranged all paperwork exactly as listed on the Consulate’s website, neatly placed in folders and organized within separate Pendaflex files for each applicant. The agent did not request any additional documents but noted that further information might be requested once the files reach the Consulate.
The appointment was completed by 9:15 a.m., and the applicants were on the ferry home by 10:10 a.m. The overall process felt efficient and well-organized, with the member noting that things seemed to move faster now that the student visa rush was over.
Their tips included:
- Local applicants can pick up their passports in person instead of paying $40 per person for courier delivery.
- Do not sign any documents until the appointment.
- If your photo isn’t glued, glue sticks are available at the Consulate.
- Relax and breathe — the process is smoother than expected.
- Bringing a purse or briefcase was not an issue.
Discussion and Additional Insights
When another member asked how long it took to get the San Francisco appointment, the applicant said it felt like “half my life.” They began trying in May 2025, eventually learning that appointments tend to open during the last week of the month or the first week of the next. By checking daily around 5:45 a.m., they managed to secure two appointments — one for each applicant — and were seen together at the same time.
Other members confirmed the difficulty of booking San Francisco appointments, with some still struggling to find available slots even after months of trying.
Questions also arose about bank statement requirements. The applicant explained they brought eight months of statements, printed every page, and provided two complete sets (one per applicant). The documents were not translated.
Another member confirmed that both spouses should bring duplicates of all materials, as some agents prefer to review each person’s set separately.
Regarding joint accounts, contributors explained that while statements showing both names are generally accepted, each applicant should still print their own copies — especially when accounts are joint but accessed through different logins.
Several other members added that being over-prepared is better than missing something. One commenter even confirmed that, as of May 2025, the Bank Statement Letter had become a new requirement.
Finally, some community members from other consulates shared that their applications were processed within 11–14 business days, although this can vary.
Conclusion
This firsthand account of the Spain Non Lucrative Visa process at the San Francisco Consulate/BLS Office shows that preparation, organization, and patience are key to a smooth appointment. Applicants appreciated the professionalism of the staff and the efficiency of the visit once an appointment was secured.
However, getting that appointment remains one of the biggest challenges, requiring persistence and early-morning effort to catch available slots. Applicants are also encouraged to bring duplicate documents, print all pages of bank statements, and ensure files are in perfect order.
With patience, organization, and attention to detail, applicants at the San Francisco Consulate can expect a professional and efficient experience when applying for the Spain Non Lucrative Visa.
This article is based on personal opinions from the Spainguru community and is not legal advice.
