How we got our Spanish non-lucrative visa
The application process for the Spanish NLV is enough to turn you to drink. From our home in Tasmania, Australia, we engaged a Spanish lawyer to help because it's such a big move.
​
Looking back, it was a mistake. They couldn't answer simple questions about the process, and some of their advice was incorrect. Fixing the resulting errors cost us time and money. They did very little to help outside of completing some forms for us.
​
So I started writing down all the steps. It soon developed into a full-blown guide. Regrettably, it's very Australia-centric and so lots of the steps won't be the same as they are in other countries. But if you're not from Australia you'll at least get the gist of it.
The second guide is all about what to do when you get here, so it applies to everyone.
​
This is not professional advice – just an account of our experience – but hopefully it will help you to decide whether the NLV is for you.
Applying for the NLV
A guide complete with instructions and timelines for applying for the NLV – mainly intended for Australians. Version 5.1, Jan 2025. Grab the 790/052 form too – you might need it.
So, you've moved to Spain
What to do when you get to Spain, from opening a bank account to getting your digital certificate and renewing the NLV. Version 1.2, Jan 2025.