NLV Document Checklist: Everything You Need to Prepare

The standard Spanish national visa application form. This must be completed in full, signed, and presented in person at your consulate appointment. Some consulates provide their own version of the form — always download the form from your specific consulate's website to ensure you are using the correct version.

Complete the form in capital letters. Do not leave any fields blank — write "N/A" where a question does not apply to you.

Your original passport, valid for at least one year beyond your intended entry date, with at least two blank pages. You will also typically need to provide a photocopy of the bio-data page (the page with your photo).

If your passport is close to expiring, renew it before beginning the NLV process. A new passport number means your other documents (criminal record, etc.) will need to reference the new number.

Two recent passport-sized photographs meeting Spanish consulate specifications. These are typically 32mm x 26mm (slightly different from UK passport photos), with a white background, taken within the last six months. Check your specific consulate for exact photo requirements — some differ from standard UK or US passport photo sizes.

This is the most substantial part of your application. You must demonstrate that you meet the income threshold for your household size (approximately €2,400/month for a single applicant). Accepted evidence includes:

• Bank statements covering the last 6–12 months (recent — within 30 days)
• Pension letters or pension statements showing regular monthly amounts
• Investment portfolio statements showing dividends or returns
• Rental income evidence (agreements + bank deposits)
• A bank reference letter confirming account balances and average income

Some consulates require financial documents to be apostilled and translated. Others accept English-language statements from major banks. Our specialists confirm what your consulate needs.

A police clearance certificate from your home country — and from any country where you have lived for more than six months in the past five years. The certificate must confirm you have no criminal record (or disclose any convictions).

How to obtain it:

• UK: Apply through the ACRO Criminal Records Office. Processing typically takes 10–15 business days. Request an "ACPO Police Certificate" for overseas use.
• USA: Apply to the FBI for a federal background check (Identity History Summary). You will need to submit fingerprints. Processing takes 3–5 weeks, though expedited services are available.
• Canada: Apply through the RCMP for a Criminal Record Check. Processing takes approximately 3–10 weeks.
• Australia: Apply through the Australian Federal Police for a National Police Check. Processing typically takes 10–15 business days.

A certificate from a registered medical practitioner confirming you do not have any disease that could pose a serious risk to public health under the International Health Regulations (2005). This is a standardised health check — not a comprehensive medical exam.

Some consulates provide a specific template that your doctor must complete. Check your consulate's website for the correct format. Your GP or a private clinic can issue this certificate.

The certificate must be issued within the last 3 months and must be apostilled and translated into Spanish.

A certificate from your private health insurer confirming comprehensive medical coverage in Spain. The certificate must explicitly state: no co-payment (sin copago), full coverage with no territorial exclusions, no waiting periods (sin carencia), and must be valid for at least the duration of the visa.

The insurer must be authorised to operate in Spain. Standard travel insurance, international health plans not registered in Spain, and policies with co-payments do not qualify.

Full health insurance guide for the NLV →

Evidence that you have somewhere to live in Spain. This can be:

• A rental agreement (contrato de alquiler) for a property in Spain
• A property title (escritura) if you own property in Spain
• A letter of invitation from a host in Spain (carta de invitación) — though this is less ideal for an NLV
• A hotel booking for the initial period (less common and less preferred)

A signed rental agreement is the most common and most straightforward proof. If you have not yet secured accommodation, some consulates accept a booking confirmation or a letter from a property agent confirming your arrangement.

The EX-01 is Spain's official application form for non-EU residence authorisations. It supplements the national visa application form with additional personal and financial details. If you are including dependants (spouse, children) in your application, each dependant may require their own EX-01 or supporting documentation.

The form must be completed in Spanish and signed by the applicant. It is available from the Spanish government's immigration portal. Our specialists provide a fully completed EX-01 as part of the application service — pre-filled with your details and ready for signature.

Note: the documents required for an NLV renewal are broadly similar but the process is handled within Spain, not at a consulate. UK citizens and Americans may have additional country-specific document requirements — see our guides for UK applicants and US applicants.

Proof that you have paid the consulate visa application fee. The fee is typically between €80–€150 depending on the consulate and your nationality. Some consulates require payment in advance; others accept payment at the appointment. Check your consulate's payment requirements.