1. Overview of Spain’s Long Stay Visa
A long stay visa for Spain allows non-EU citizens to live in Spain for periods longer than 90 days. Commonly sought after by students, retirees, remote workers, and those joining family, the visa provides a pathway for temporary residence and the option to apply for residency.
2. Types of Long Stay Visas in Spain
2.1 Student Visa
The Student Visa is for those enrolled in an educational program in Spain, such as a university, language course, or internship.
2.2 Non-Lucrative Visa
The Non-Lucrative Visa is ideal for retirees or financially independent individuals. This visa prohibits work but allows residency for those who can support themselves.
2.3 Work Visa
For individuals with a job offer from a Spanish employer, this visa enables work and residency in Spain. It requires employer sponsorship.
2.4 Digital Nomad Visa (upcoming)
Expected soon, the Digital Nomad Visa will allow remote workers to live in Spain while working for non-Spanish companies. This visa aims to attract freelancers and digital nomads.
3. Eligibility Requirements for Spain’s Long Stay Visa
Each long stay visa category has its specific eligibility criteria, but common requirements include:
- Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself without working.
- Health Insurance: Private health insurance from a provider authorized to operate in Spain.
- Clear Criminal Record: No criminal record from any country where you’ve lived in the past five years.
- Medical Certificate: Certification that you do not have any diseases that could pose a public health risk.
4. Minimum Financial Requirements
The financial requirement varies based on the visa type and the number of dependents:
- Non-Lucrative Visa: Minimum of €27,792 per year (approximately €2,316 per month). For dependents, an additional €6,948 per person is required.
- Student Visa: Typically €600–€700 per month, depending on region and duration.
- Work Visa: Financial criteria depend on the job offer, but the salary must meet Spanish minimum wage standards.
5. Required Documents for Spain’s Long Stay Visa
Personal Identification
- Passport: Valid for at least one year with two blank pages.
- Passport-Size Photos: Recent photos meeting Spanish visa photo specifications.
Financial Proof
- Bank Statements: Covering the past 6-12 months, showing consistent financial stability.
- Income Proof: Proof of monthly income from pensions, savings, investments, or remote work (for non-lucrative and digital nomad visas).
Health Insurance
- Private Health Insurance Policy: Comprehensive insurance that covers all medical expenses within Spain. Some insurance providers popular with expats include Sanitas and Adeslas.
Criminal Record
- Police Clearance Certificate: A background check issued within the last three months from countries where you’ve lived in the past five years.
Medical Certificate
- Medical Health Certificate: From a licensed physician, stating that you do not have any contagious diseases.
6. Application Process for the Long Stay Visa
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary documents, ensuring they are current, translated into Spanish (where required), and certified with an Apostille if needed.
Step 2: Book an Appointment at the Spanish Consulate
Set up an appointment at the Spanish Consulate or Embassy in your country. You’ll submit your application there.
Step 3: Submit Your Application and Pay the Fees
Bring all required documents and pay the application fee (fees vary depending on the visa type and applicant’s nationality, typically €60 to €125).
Step 4: Attend a Visa Interview
You may be asked questions regarding the purpose of your stay, financial situation, health insurance coverage, and ties to your home country.
Step 5: Wait for Processing and Visa Approval
Processing time usually takes 1–3 months. Once approved, you’ll receive a long stay visa stamp in your passport.
7. Steps to Take After Arrival in Spain
Upon arriving in Spain, long stay visa holders must take these additional steps:
- Apply for a TIE (Foreigner Identity Card): Register with the local authorities within 30 days and apply for the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE).
- Register Your Address: Register your Spanish address at the local town hall to complete your residency requirements.
- Open a Spanish Bank Account (if needed): Many financial transactions, like paying rent and utilities, require a Spanish bank account.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is a Spanish long stay visa valid for?
Most long stay visas are valid for 1 year initially, with extensions available based on the visa type. - Can I work on a Non-Lucrative Visa?
No, a Non-Lucrative Visa does not permit employment or business activity within Spain. - Can I switch from a Non-Lucrative Visa to a Work Visa?
Yes, you can apply to switch your visa type from within Spain, though specific conditions apply. - Is health insurance mandatory for a long stay visa?
Yes, private health insurance covering your stay in Spain is mandatory for all long stay visas. - Can my family join me on a long stay visa?
Yes, most long stay visas allow dependents to join you. You’ll need additional proof of funds for each dependent.
9. Conclusion
Obtaining a long stay visa in Spain is a gateway to enjoying a Mediterranean lifestyle, whether as a student, retiree, remote worker, or employee. By ensuring you meet all financial, health, and documentation requirements, and following the application process thoroughly, you can make the most of your extended stay in Spain.