This article shares a firsthand experience of applying for the Spain non lucrative visa at the Los Angeles BLS office. It is based on a real post from a Spanish Non Lucrative Visa Facebook group and provides detailed insight into how the process unfolded in Los Angeles, what documents were requested, how family appointments were handled, and what applicants can realistically expect on the day of their appointment.
Firsthand Experience: Spain Non Lucrative Visa at Los Angeles BLS
The following section reproduces the firsthand experience exactly as it was shared in the Facebook group. The text has not been altered.
“Just went to an appointment today (November 15th 2025). Los Angeles BLS. We had 2 adults + 1 teenager appointment today (prime time) and 2 children appointment next Friday (also prime time). We were not seen together as a family. It was only 3 people that was seen today. And next week we have to go back for the 2 children appointment.
Building superintendent was not friendly at all. We did not know and waited in front of the 10th floor office door, he came up and yelled at us to go downstairs or wait outside the building.
Our appointment time was 8:30, 8:50 and 9:10 but we were seen around 9:10 and when we were done it was around 10:30am
The agent who took our documents were very nice.
The documents they took.
- Passport, passport copy
- Photo
- Driver’s license copy *checked the original
- Money order
- Visa application
- EX-01
- Letter of Intent
- Sworn statement that we would not work under the visa – notarized
- 1yr of tax return
- Average balance of 1yr of bank statement (we made a excel thing explaining that our bank does not provide)
- 3 recent months of bank statement (printed at home)
- Financial Support letter for the spouse – notarized
- Marriage certificate and apostille and sworn translation
- FBI background apostille and sworn translation
- Medical certificate + one copy
- Medical insurance
For child
- Financial Support for child – notarized
- birth certificate apostille and sworn translated
- school enrollment certificate (in Spanish)
We prepared 3 yrs of taxes and 1 yr of bank statement and 3 months of Airbnb but they did not take
So far this is what I remember.”
Here you can find Spainguru’s recommended NLV related services: https://spainguru.es/services-for-spanish-visas/
Join Spainguru’s Spain Non Lucrative Visa Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spanishnlv
Comments from Other Spainguru Community Members
Several community members contributed valuable follow-up comments and clarifications.
One applicant who attended BLS Los Angeles on October 31 2025 shared that their document list was nearly identical. They were told their case was solid and advised to expect processing times of 12 to 16 weeks, although their Spanish lawyer suggested approvals for the Barcelona area often arrive in around six weeks.
Another user asked about separate appointments for spouses and the use of a single marriage certificate. The response confirmed that only one marriage certificate was taken for both applicants. If applying separately, presenting it at the first appointment and explaining the situation is sufficient, with copies accepted if requested.
Questions were also raised about school enrollment. The applicant explained that they researched schools online, contacted them directly, and paid only one month of tuition. The chosen location in Spain was the Madrid area.
Bank statements were another major topic. The applicant clarified that they printed all pages for savings accounts, used ending balances from each month, and calculated the average manually. This clarification helped multiple community members who were confused about how to present financial evidence.
There was also confirmation that BLS does not retain original driver’s licenses or passports beyond verification; only copies are kept.
Overall, the comments reinforce that the Los Angeles Spain non lucrative visa process is consistent but strict, and preparation remains essential even if not all documents are ultimately taken.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Spain Non Lucrative Visa in Los Angeles
How many bank statements does BLS Los Angeles require for the Spain non lucrative visa?
Based on this experience, BLS Los Angeles accepted three recent months of bank statements along with a one-year average balance calculation. However, applicants should still prepare up to 12 months in case additional documents are requested later.
Do families attend one appointment together in Los Angeles?
Not necessarily. Even with coordinated appointments, family members may be processed separately. Children may require separate appointment dates.
Is an average balance letter mandatory for the Spain non lucrative visa?
If your bank does not issue an official average balance letter, a clearly explained Excel calculation using monthly ending balances has been accepted in Los Angeles.
Do children need proof of school enrollment in Spain?
Yes. School enrollment certificates in Spanish were required for child applications. Full tuition payment was not required; one month was sufficient in this case.
How long does Spain non lucrative visa processing take after applying in Los Angeles?
BLS staff indicated 12 to 16 weeks, although actual timelines can vary depending on the Spanish region processing the application.
Are original documents like passports or driver’s licenses kept by BLS?
No. Originals are checked, but only copies are retained.
Is accommodation proof required at the appointment?
Although accommodation proof was prepared, it was not taken during this appointment. This does not guarantee it will not be requested later.
This information is based on personal experience and is not legal advice. Consult with expert immigration lawyers that can be found here: https://spainguru.es/services-for-spanish-visas/
