Non-Lucrative Visa Spain for Americans: A US Citizen's Complete Guide
Applying for the Non-Lucrative Visa from the United States involves unique steps: FBI background checks, US consulate appointments, and understanding how your continued tax obligations work abroad. This guide walks Americans through every requirement and answers the questions most visa consultants miss.
Can US Citizens Apply for the Non-Lucrative Visa?
Yes, absolutely. American citizens are among the largest groups of NLV applicants in Spain, and the application process is identical to other nationalities. The visa is intentionally designed for retirees and early retirees with passive income—which describes millions of Americans.
Why Americans Choose the NLV
- No work requirement—retirees, pension recipients, and investment-income earners qualify easily.
- Passive income from US sources (Social Security, IRAs, investment accounts) counts toward the income requirement.
- Renewable annually—you're not locked into a multi-year commitment.
- No residency quota—Spain accepts NLV applications from all nations, including the US.
- Gateway to permanent residence—after 5 years on NLV, you can apply for indefinite residence.
- Growing community—thousands of Americans already living in Spain on NLV means established networks and English-speaking services.
Who Qualifies
To qualify for the NLV as a US citizen, you need:
- Minimum monthly income (2026: approximately $1,400–$1,500 for a single applicant in USD equivalent).
- A valid US passport.
- A clean criminal record (FBI background check).
- Private health insurance registered in Spain.
- No criminal convictions in Spain or your country of origin.
Unlike work visas, the NLV has no language requirement, no job offer needed, and no startup investment required. Your income just needs to be sustainable and verifiable—which is straightforward for Americans with US Social Security, pensions, or investment accounts.
US Consulates That Process the NLV
Spain has eight US consulates that handle NLV applications. Your application goes to the consulate in the city where you'll live. Below is practical information about each one, including the regions it covers, typical processing times, and appointment booking details.
US Consulate General — Madrid
Spain's largest and busiest consulate. Schedule appointments well in advance (typically 4–8 weeks out). English-speaking staff available.
US Consulate — Barcelona
Second-busiest consulate, especially popular with remote workers and digital nomads. Expect to wait 6–10 weeks for an appointment.
US Consulate — Valencia
Less busy than Madrid or Barcelona. Typically faster appointment availability (3–5 weeks out). Smaller, efficient team.
US Consulate — Seville
Services southern Spain. Good alternative if you're retiring to Andalusia. Generally available for appointments within 2–4 weeks.
US Consulate — Bilbao
Services the Basque region. Lower application volume than major consulates. Often fastest appointment times (1–3 weeks).
US Consulate — Palma de Mallorca
Services the islands. Smaller office with quick appointment availability. Good choice if you're relocating to Mallorca or other islands.
US Consulate — Alicante
Services the Costa Blanca. Popular with retirees. Quick appointment availability. High English-speaker concentration.
US Consulate — Washington DC
The US Embassy in Madrid (Calle Serrano 75) handles any issues that cannot be resolved at individual consulates. Contact through the Madrid consulate website.
Important: Each consulate may have slightly different document requirements, processing timelines, and appointment availability. Always check your specific consulate's website before submitting documents. If your location is near a consulate with a shorter wait time, you may be able to apply there instead of the nearest one—ask the consulate directly.
FBI Background Check for Americans
Every US citizen applying for the NLV must obtain an FBI Identity History Summary, commonly called the FBI background check or FBI clearance. This is a Spain immigration requirement, not optional. Here's exactly how to get it, how long it takes, and the fastest paths forward.
How to Request Your FBI Identity History Summary
The FBI Identity History Summary is a document showing your fingerprints and any FBI record of criminal activity (or confirmation that you have no record). You request this directly from the FBI Identification Records Services.
- Online request: Visit fbi.gov/records, create an account, and submit your request digitally. Provide fingerprints by ink card or electronic submission. This is the most direct route.
- By mail: Print the form from the FBI website (form not required; plain letter sufficient), include fingerprints on FBI Form FD-258 (ink fingerprint card), and send to: FBI Identity Records Services, Clarksburg, WV 26306. Processing time is longer (4–8 weeks).
- By phone: Call the FBI Records request line at 304-625-5590 to ask questions or verify submission status. They cannot take applications by phone.
Standard Processing: 12–18 Weeks
If you submit via the online system or by mail without using a channeler service, expect 12–18 weeks for processing. This is the free path, but the timeline is long. Many applicants miss their consulate appointment window while waiting for the FBI.
Expedited Processing: 3–5 Days
Use an approved FBI channeler service
Recommended channelers: Once you receive your FBI Identity History Summary, it must be apostilled by the US State Department to be valid in Spain. See the apostille section below for details. Pro tip for Americans: If you plan to apply for the NLV and think you might need more than 3–4 months before your consulate appointment, start the FBI process immediately. If you're on a tight timeline (appointment within 2–3 months), use a channeler service to get results in days. The consulate will not wait for a delayed FBI check—you'll miss your appointment window.
Fingerprinting Options
Next Step: Apostille
Apostille Process for US Documents
An apostille is an official authentication certificate that certifies the origin of a document for use in countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention (which includes Spain). Your FBI background check, passport, and any US-issued documents need apostilles.
Federal vs. State Apostille
FBI Identity History Summary: Apostilled by the US State Department (federal level). Cost: ~$20. Processing: 3–5 weeks standard; 2–3 weeks expedited.
State-issued documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, educational diplomas): Apostilled by the Secretary of State in that state. Cost varies by state ($15–$30). Processing varies by state (1–2 weeks typical).
Example: If you're from California, your birth certificate apostille comes from the California Secretary of State. Your FBI check apostille comes from the US State Department.
How to Get a US State Department Apostille (FBI Check)
- By mail: Mail your FBI Identity History Summary to: US State Department, Office of Authentications, Room 125, 2201 C Street NW, Washington DC 20520. Include a check for $20 and a cover letter requesting apostille. Processing: 3–5 weeks.
- By expedited service: Pay $30 for 2–3 week processing, or use a local professional authentication service (search "apostille service Washington DC"). Cost: $50–$100.
- In person: Visit the State Department office in Washington DC Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:00 PM. You can get apostilles same-day. Location: 2201 C Street NW, Washington DC 20520.
Cost Summary
- FBI Identity History Summary apostille: $20 (federal)
- State document apostilles: $15–$30 each (varies by state)
- Expedited service (if needed): Add $20–$50
- Total for typical application: $100–$150
Pro tip: Batch all apostille requests together. If you need apostilles from multiple states, contact each Secretary of State office at the same time to save time and shipping costs.
Income & Financial Requirements for US Applicants
The Spanish income thresholds (IPREM) are exactly the same for Americans as for any other nationality. What changes is how you prove it—US financial documents and currency conversions. Here's how to meet the requirement and present your income to the consulate.
2026 Income Thresholds (IPREM)
- Single applicant: ~€1,260/month ≈ $1,400–$1,500 USD (changes annually and by exchange rate)
- Couple: ~€1,890/month ≈ $2,100–$2,250 USD
- Each dependent child: Additional €360/month per child
Accepted Income Sources for Americans
The consulate accepts any stable, verifiable income:
- US Social Security: Social Security Administration letter showing your annual benefit + 12 months of direct deposit or check stubs.
- Pension income: Pension statement from employer or retirement plan showing monthly amount.
- 401(k) or IRA withdrawals: Quarterly or annual statements showing regular withdrawals. You can use Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) after age 73.
- Investment account income: Brokerage statements (Fidelity, Vanguard, Charles Schwab, etc.) showing dividends, interest, or regular account transfers.
- Rental income: Lease agreement + tax return showing the income.
- Bond interest or annuity payments: Statements from financial institutions.
- US bank savings: If you don't have active income, some consulates accept proof of substantial liquid savings (€50,000+) as a backup, though income is always preferred.
How to Present US Financial Documents
- Bank statements: Provide 12 months of recent statements from your US bank. Highlight deposits from Social Security, pension, investment account transfers, or other income sources.
- Currency: The consulate accepts statements in USD. List the monthly average income in USD and note the EUR equivalent (using the current month's exchange rate from the consulate's listed rate, usually ~1 EUR = 1.10 USD).
- Summary letter: Write a simple letter detailing your income sources, amounts, and frequency. Example: "I receive US Social Security of $1,600/month and investment income of $200/month, totaling $1,800/month USD (~€1,600)."
- Translation: All English-language documents must be translated to Spanish by a sworn translator. The consulate often has a list of approved translators.
Americans with complex finances: Self-employed? Multiple income streams? US/international accounts? Consulates are familiar with Americans' complex financial situations and will work with you to verify income. Provide clear documentation of each source and be prepared to explain how funds are sustained.
US Health Insurance vs. Spanish Health Insurance
One of the biggest misunderstandings Americans have: Medicare does NOT work in Spain, and your US health insurance will not cover medical services in Spain. You must obtain Spanish-registered private health insurance to meet NLV requirements. Here's what you need to know.
Why Medicare Doesn't Cover Spain
Medicare (US federal health insurance) only covers medical services received in the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the US Virgin Islands. Spain is not covered. If you move to Spain on the NLV, you lose Medicare coverage the moment you're no longer a US resident. You cannot maintain Medicare coverage while living abroad.
US Private Insurance Doesn't Meet NLV Requirements
Even if your US health insurance has some international coverage, the Spanish consulate will NOT accept it as proof of the required health insurance for the NLV. Spain's immigration law requires that your health insurance be registered with Spain's health system (registered with the Seguridad Social or accepted by regional health authorities). US policies, even with travel or expatriate coverage, do not meet this requirement.
What You Need: Spanish-Registered Private Insurance
You must purchase a private health insurance policy that is:
- Registered and operational in Spain
- Covers medical costs (minimum annual coverage requirement: varies by consulate, typically €6,000–€12,000)
- Valid in Spain for the full visa period
Popular Spanish Health Insurance for Expats
- a leading private insurer Expatriados: Designed for expats. Covers primary care, specialists, hospitalization. Cost: €100–€200/month depending on age and coverage level.
- a leading private insurer Health (Spain): International plan with coverage in Spain. Cost: €80–€180/month.
- a leading private insurer: Spain's largest insurer. Offers plans for expats. Cost: €90–€200/month.
- HNA (Grupo a leading private insurer): Mid-range option for expats. Cost: €70–$150/month.
- a leading private insurer: Expatriate health insurance, covers Spain. Cost: €120–€250/month.
Prices vary significantly by age, location, and coverage level. A 60-year-old retiree typically pays €80–€150/month. A 70-year-old pays €150–€250/month. Get quotes from multiple providers before applying for the NLV.
Strategy: Some Americans maintain both US supplemental insurance (for trips back to the US) and Spanish private insurance (for daily coverage in Spain). This is allowed and recommended if you plan to visit the US regularly. The consulate only requires proof of Spanish coverage, not exclusive coverage.
For a detailed breakdown of NLV-compliant policies, costs by age, and pre-existing condition guidance, see our NLV Health Insurance guide. For the full picture of Spain's healthcare system, read our Healthcare in Spain guide.
US Tax Obligations While Living in Spain
The biggest shock for many Americans moving to Spain: you still owe US income taxes. The US taxes worldwide income for all citizens, regardless of where you live. Here's what you need to file, how the tax treaty helps, and why you need professional advice. For a full breakdown of Spanish tax obligations for NLV holders, see our dedicated NLV Tax Guide.
You Must Continue Filing US Taxes
As a US citizen living in Spain, you are required to file a US tax return every year on income worldwide. This includes:
- Social Security benefits
- Pension income
- 401(k) withdrawals
- Investment income (dividends, capital gains, interest)
- Rental income (if you own property in the US)
- Any Spanish income (unlikely on the NLV, since you can't work)
FBAR & FATCA: Foreign Account Reporting
FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Report): If you have US or Spanish bank accounts totaling more than $10,000 at any time during the year, you must file an FBAR (FinCEN Form 114) with the US Treasury Department. This is filed separately from your tax return. Penalties for non-compliance are severe (up to $10,000 or more).
FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act): Spanish banks are required to report your account information to the US IRS if you're a US citizen. This is automatic—the bank does it. Your US bank also reports foreign accounts. There's no "hiding" money; the system is designed for transparency.
The US-Spain Tax Treaty
The good news: The US and Spain have a tax treaty that prevents double taxation. Here's how it works:
- Most types of income are covered—pensions, Social Security, investment income, rental income.
- You'll typically pay tax in only one country, not both.
- Spain generally taxes Spanish-source income (Spanish property rental, Spanish employment); the US typically waives this if Spain taxes it.
- For Social Security and pensions, there are specific provisions in the treaty. Generally, Social Security is taxed by the US only (not Spain), which is favorable for retirees.
Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE)
Important: The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) does NOT apply to you on the NLV. The FEIE allows Americans working abroad to exclude the first ~$120,000 of earned income from US taxes. Since the NLV prohibits employment, you have no earned income to exclude. This is only relevant if you're on a different visa (like the Digital Nomad Visa) and working remotely.
Deadlines & Filing
- US tax return (Form 1040): Due April 15 (automatically extended to October 15 if filed by the April deadline with Form 4868).
- FBAR: Due April 15 (can extend to October 15).
- Spanish tax return (Declaración de la Renta): Due June 30 (if you owe Spanish taxes or earn Spanish-source income). Most NLV holders don't need to file Spanish taxes since they have no Spanish-source income and no Spanish employment.
Critical: Hire a tax professional who understands both US and Spanish tax law. The cost ($500–$2,000 per year) is worth it to avoid mistakes, penalties, and missed deductions. Many Americans living in Spain use expatriate tax firms like MyExpatTaxes or TurboTax (for simple returns). For complex situations, hire a CPA who specializes in international taxation.
Social Security & Retirement Benefits in Spain
One of the major advantages of the NLV for Americans: you can receive US Social Security benefits while living in Spain. The bilateral totalization agreement ensures your contributions are recognized in both countries. Here's how it works practically.
US Social Security Works in Spain
Yes, you can receive your US Social Security benefits in Spain. The payment is deposited directly to your bank account (US or Spanish), and you receive the same amount you'd get living in the US. Spain does not tax Social Security benefits—the US-Spain tax treaty specifically excludes Social Security from Spanish taxation, which is a major advantage for retirees.
Setting Up Direct Deposit
- To a US account: If you keep a US bank account, SSA will continue direct deposit there. You can access funds via ATM or debit card from any Spanish bank.
- To a Spanish account: You can authorize SSA to deposit directly to a Spanish bank account. This simplifies finances, but confirm your Spanish bank accepts international ACH transfers from the US (most do). Setup takes 1–2 months.
Contact the Social Security Administration to update your address to Spain and request direct deposit changes. Use Form SSA-795 (Statement of Claimant or Other Interested Person) to make changes.
The US-Spain Totalization Agreement
The totalization agreement is a bilateral treaty that:
- Recognizes your US Social Security contributions toward Spanish pension eligibility (and vice versa).
- Eliminates the need for duplicate contributions if you work in both countries.
- Allows you to qualify for benefits in either or both countries based on combined work records.
- Prevents paying Social Security taxes on the same income twice.
Since you can't work on the NLV, this is mainly relevant if you later change visas or move to work in Spain.
401(k) and IRA Withdrawals Abroad
- Withdrawals continue as normal. You can withdraw from your 401(k) or IRA while in Spain, with the same rules as in the US. Report distributions on your US tax return.
- RMDs (Required Minimum Distributions) apply. If you're over 73, you must take annual RMDs or face IRS penalties. RMDs work the same way abroad—withdraw from your US account, report on your tax return.
- Transfer to Spanish accounts? Some Americans transfer retirement funds to Spanish accounts for easier access. Consult a tax professional before doing this, as it may have tax implications.
- Roth IRAs continue tax-free growth. Qualified distributions from Roth IRAs are not taxed in either the US or Spain, making them favorable for retirees abroad.
Good news: Spanish healthcare (once you qualify for the public system after residency) is often significantly cheaper than US Medicare supplemental coverage. Combined with Social Security benefits not being taxed by Spain, the NLV is financially attractive for American retirees.
Common Mistakes Americans Make with the NLV
Based on hundreds of American NLV applicants, here are the mistakes that most often lead to delays, rejections, or expensive reapplications. Avoid these and your application will move smoothly.
Starting the FBI Check Too Late
The FBI background check takes 12–18 weeks via the standard process. Many Americans don't realize this and miss their consulate appointment window. Solution: Start the FBI process 4–5 months before your intended consulate appointment, or use an expedited channeler service (3–5 days, costs $150–$200).
Not Apostilling Documents Correctly
Americans often apostille the wrong level (state vs. federal), forget to apostille all documents, or send apostilles to the wrong authority. Each document needs the correct apostille from the correct issuing authority. The FBI check needs a US State Department apostille, not a state apostille.
Assuming Medicare Covers Spain
Many American retirees plan to use Medicare in Spain and then discover it's not covered. You must purchase Spanish-registered private insurance. Plan for €80–€200/month in insurance costs. Do this well before applying for the NLV.
Forgetting FBAR & FATCA Reporting
Americans living abroad must file FBAR and FATCA if they have foreign accounts over $10,000. Forgetting these reports leads to IRS penalties of $10,000+. File them every year—don't skip. Hire a tax professional to ensure compliance.
Not Understanding the NLV Work Prohibition
The NLV explicitly prohibits employment in Spain. Americans who think they'll "just do freelance work on the side" or "work for US clients" are violating visa terms and risk deportation and bans. If you need to work, apply for the Digital Nomad Visa instead.
Underestimating Document Preparation Time
Getting documents translated, apostilled, and certified takes time. Americans often begin applying 2–3 months before their consulate appointment and run out of time. Start 5–6 months in advance. This is especially critical if you have documents from multiple states.
After Arrival in Spain: NIE, TIE, Bank Accounts & More
You've been approved, received your visa, and arrived in Spain. What comes next? Here's the step-by-step process for the first 30 days—including getting your NIE, opening a bank account, and establishing residency.
Step 1: Get Your NIE (First 30 Days)
Your NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your foreigner identification number—essential for everything in Spain. You get the NIE at the National Police (Policía Nacional) office in your city. Bring:
- Your passport
- Your NLV visa (in your passport)
- Proof of address in Spain (rental contract, property deed, or hotel confirmation)
- A completed application form (available at the police office)
Processing takes 1–2 weeks. You'll receive a paper NIE document and a temporary certificate. Keep both safe—you'll need the NIE number for everything: bank accounts, healthcare, taxes, etc.
Step 2: Get Your TIE Card (Optional but Recommended)
The TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is a physical ID card that proves your legal residency. While not strictly required if you have your NIE, most Americans get one because it's easier to carry than a passport. You can apply for your TIE at the same National Police office after getting your NIE. Cost: €10–$20. Processing: 1–3 weeks.
Step 3: Register at the Padrón (First 30 Days)
The padrón is the municipal registration of residents. You must register within 30 days of arrival at your local town hall (Ayuntamiento). Bring:
- Your passport
- Your NIE document
- Proof of address (rental contract, property deed)
Registration is free and takes 10 minutes. You'll get a padrón certificate, which you'll need for healthcare, taxes, and other services.
Step 4: Open a Spanish Bank Account (First Month)
You'll need a Spanish IBAN (account number) for direct deposits, bill payments, and daily life. Most major banks (CaixaBank, Santander, BBVA, Banco Sabadell) have offices throughout Spain and accept expats. Bring:
- Your passport
- Your NIE certificate
- Proof of address (padrón certificate or rental contract)
- Your US Social Security number (they'll request this for FATCA compliance)
Processing: 15–30 minutes. You'll get a bank card and IBAN same-day or within 1 week. Arrange for your US Social Security direct deposit to your Spanish IBAN (takes 1–2 months to set up through SSA).
FATCA complication: Spanish banks will ask for your US tax ID and may request FATCA documentation. This is standard and required—they're not blocking your account, just complying with US law. Have your US tax ID (SSN) ready and expect some banks to take 3–4 weeks to fully activate accounts for Americans due to FATCA verification.
Step 5: Register for Healthcare
Once registered at the padrón, you can register for Spain's public healthcare system (if your income qualifies). Visit your local Centro de Salud (health center) and request registration. You'll need your NIE and padrón certificate. Alternatively, your private health insurance will provide coverage immediately—no registration needed.
Finding English-Speaking Services
Spain's larger cities (Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville) have extensive English-speaking expat communities and services. Smaller towns may not. Consider:
- Hiring a gestoría (administrative management company) for tax and NIE help. Cost: €200–€500 first year, €100–€300 annually. They handle Spanish bureaucracy so you don't have to.
- Joining expat Facebook groups and meetups—invaluable for advice and referrals.
- Using Google Translate or apps for doctor/bank visits if needed.
- Learning basic Spanish phrases for essential interactions.
After your first year in Spain, you'll need to think about NLV renewal — which is handled at the Extranjería in Spain, not at the US consulate. The renewal process requires updated financial proof and valid health insurance. For answers to more common questions, visit our NLV FAQ hub.
Recommended insurance specialists
Spanish Health Insurance — visa-compliant private health insurance for English-speaking foreigners in Spain.
247 Expat Insurance — health and all types of expat insurance in Spain, tailored for international residents.
Ready to Apply for the Non-Lucrative Visa?
The NLV is the most accessible visa for American retirees moving to Spain. Get started with your eligibility check, or explore our complete guides for the application process, documents, and timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often from Americans applying for the Non-Lucrative Visa.
Can US citizens apply for the Non-Lucrative Visa in Spain?
Yes, absolutely. US citizens are eligible for the Non-Lucrative Visa. Americans are among the largest groups of NLV applicants in Spain. The application process is identical to other nationalities, though Americans must handle FBI background checks, US document apostilles, and ongoing tax compliance with the IRS. No special requirements—just the standard income threshold, health insurance, and clean criminal record.
How long does the FBI background check take for the NLV?
Standard FBI Identity History Summary processing takes 12–18 weeks. However, you can use an approved FBI channeler service to get results in 3–5 business days for an additional fee of $150–$200. Most Americans applying for the NLV use the expedited option because the 12–18 week timeline is too long to meet consulate appointment windows. Popular channelers include FieldPrint and Identogo.
Do I need to continue paying US taxes while living in Spain on the NLV?
Yes, all US citizens must continue filing US tax returns and paying taxes on worldwide income, regardless of where they live. This includes Social Security benefits, pension income, IRA withdrawals, investment income, and any other income. The good news: the US-Spain tax treaty prevents double taxation on most income. You'll also need to report foreign bank accounts over $10,000 (FBAR) and comply with FATCA. Hire a tax professional familiar with international taxation—it's worth the cost ($500–$2,000/year) to ensure compliance.
Does Medicare work in Spain?
No, Medicare does not cover medical services in Spain. Medicare only covers care in the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the US Virgin Islands. You must obtain private health insurance registered in Spain to meet NLV requirements. Cost: approximately €80–€200/month depending on age and coverage level. Many Americans maintain both US supplemental coverage (for trips back to the US) and Spanish private insurance simultaneously.
Which US consulates process NLV applications?
Eight US consulates in Spain process NLV applications: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Bilbao, Palma de Mallorca, Alicante, and the main Embassy in Madrid (for escalations). Which consulate you use depends on where you'll live in Spain. Madrid is the busiest (2–4 month wait for appointments), while smaller consulates like Bilbao and Palma often have faster availability (1–3 weeks). Most processing takes 2–3 months from appointment to decision, though Madrid may take 4+ months due to volume.
Can I receive Social Security payments while living in Spain on the NLV?
Yes, you can absolutely receive US Social Security benefits while living in Spain. Payments continue at the same rate as if you lived in the US. You can arrange direct deposit to either a US bank account or a Spanish bank account. The bilateral US-Spain totalization agreement ensures that your US Social Security contributions are recognized in Spain, and Spanish work contributions are recognized by the US. Social Security benefits are not taxed by Spain—a major advantage for American retirees.
What income do I need in USD to qualify for the NLV in 2026?
For 2026, you need approximately $1,400–$1,500 USD monthly for a single applicant (based on IPREM thresholds, which are set in EUR and converted). For couples, approximately $2,100–$2,250 USD. For each dependent child, add approximately $350/month USD. This income can come from Social Security, pensions, 401(k) withdrawals, IRA withdrawals, investment income, rental income, or any combination. The exact USD equivalent changes annually with IPREM adjustments and exchange rates, so check with your specific consulate for current rates.
Do I need an apostille for my FBI background check?
Yes, your FBI Identity History Summary must be apostilled by the US State Department. The apostille authenticates the document for legal use in Spain (a signatory to the Hague Apostille Convention). Cost: approximately $20. Processing: 3–5 weeks standard, or faster through expedited services. You can get it done in person at the US State Department in Washington DC (1 day), by mail (3–5 weeks), or through a local authentication service ($50–$100 additional cost).
Related Guides & Resources
Explore our complete guides for every aspect of the Non-Lucrative Visa and living in Spain.