You've got your NVL, now what?
Step 1: Collect Your Visa from the Consulate
Once your NLV is approved, you’ll receive an official notification from the Spanish Consulate where you applied. You typically have around one month to collect your visa in person.
After approval, the consulate stamps a temporary NLV in your passport—normally valid for 90 days though recently in 2025 this appears to have changed.
You must enter Spain before it expires.
This stamped visa lets you legally enter Spain and stay while you complete your residence procedures.
Step 2: Register Your Address (Padrón)
Before applying for your TIE, you’ll need empadronamiento your official address registration.
You’ll need:
- Passport
- Rental contract, title deed, or owner authorisation
- Utility bill (sometimes)
This certificate is essential for your TIE appointment.
Step 3: Apply for Your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero)
This is the residence card that proves your legal right to live in Spain.
You must book an appointment at the Oficina de Extranjería or local police station.
You’ll bring:
- EX-17 form
- Passport + copy
- Visa page with entry stamp
- Padrón
- Passport photos
- Payment of the TIE fee (Modelo 790, Código 012)
At the appointment, they’ll take fingerprints and file your application.
Step 4: Collect Your Physical TIE Card
Around 3–6 weeks later, you’ll return to collect your card (some offices require an appointment; others don’t).
Your first NLV TIE is valid for 1 year, renewable from Spain.
Step 5: Understand Your NLV Obligations
To maintain your residency:
- You cannot work in Spain
- You must spend over 183 days per year in Spain
- You must prove sufficient financial means for renewals
- Private health insurance must remain active
These rules matter for future renewals and for your path to long-term residency.
Step 6: Plan Ahead for Renewals
You renew after the first year for a two-year card.
Start preparing 60 days before expiry.
Apply for a digital certificate (we can help with that!)
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