Your New Life in Spain | Sunshine Homes — Non-Lucrative Visa Guide

Step-by-Step

The NLV Application: A to Z

This process must be completed in the UK (or your home country). Prepare each element carefully — Spanish consulates are strict, and any missing or incorrectly formatted document will result in rejection.

UK — Months Before

Book Your Application Through BLS International

Since late 2023, all NLV applications in the UK are handled by BLS International — the outsourced visa application partner to the Spanish Consulates. The Spanish Consulates in London, Edinburgh, and Manchester no longer accept applications or give appointments directly. You must book and attend through BLS. Your BLS centre is determined by your postcode — check the BLS website to confirm which centre covers your area. Waiting times for appointments can be 6–12 weeks, so book as early as possible. Full BLS contact details are in the Contacts section of this guide.

UK — Months Before

Gather Proof of Income / Financial Means

You must demonstrate sufficient passive income. The 2025/26 benchmark is approximately €2,400 per month for the main applicant (the Spanish monthly minimum wage × 4), plus approximately €600/month per additional family member. Pension letters, investment/dividend statements, and proof of property rental income all count.

⚠️ Updated Requirement: 12 Months of Bank Statements — Stamped by Your Bank

The requirement has changed. You must now provide 12 months of bank statements (not 6), and they must be officially stamped by your bank. Online-generated or unverified statements are no longer accepted. Contact your bank branch directly to obtain stamped copies — some banks require advance notice for this, so allow plenty of time. Documents must be current and typically dated within 90 days of your application date.

UK — Months Before

Healthcare Cover: Private Insurance or the S1 Route

Proof of healthcare cover is a mandatory requirement for your NLV application. There are two routes depending on your personal circumstances.

Route A — Private Health Insurance (pre state retirement age applicants): Your policy must be with a provider authorised in Spain; offer comprehensive cover without co-payments (reimbursement-only policies are rejected); cover the full duration of your visa; and list Spain as the country of cover. Providers commonly accepted include Adeslas, Sanitas, Asisa, AXA Spain, and Mapfre. Budget €80–€180 per month per adult depending on age. Purchase the policy before submitting your application.

✅ Route B — The S1 Form (UK State Pension & Benefit Recipients)

If you are already receiving your UK State Pension or certain other qualifying UK benefits (such as an industrial injuries or contribution-based benefit), you may be entitled to an S1 form. If accepted and registered by Spain, the S1 can replace the requirement for private health insurance, giving you access to Spanish public healthcare with the UK government meeting the cost.

How to get your S1: Contact the NHS Business Services Authority Overseas Healthcare Services on 0191 218 1999 (or from abroad: +44 191 218 1999), or apply via nhsbsa.nhs.uk. Have your National Insurance number and pension/benefit details ready. The S1 is free and is usually issued within 4–8 weeks. Once in Spain, register it with the local INSS (Social Security) office to activate your public healthcare entitlement.

Important caveat: While the S1 can satisfy Spain’s healthcare requirement once registered with the INSS, some Spanish consulates still ask to see private health insurance at the visa application stage. Always verify the current requirements with your specific consulate and an immigration lawyer before relying on the S1 route. It is worth noting that private health insurance policies for Spain are annual commitments, so factor this cost into your relocation planning from the outset. Private insurance is also strongly recommended as a valuable supplement for dental, optical, and other services that are not always fully covered under the Spanish public system.

Critical Document

Criminal Record Certificate — ACRO Police Certificate

The criminal record certificate required for the NLV is now issued by ACRO (the Criminal Records Office) — not the DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service). A standard DBS check is not accepted for Spanish visa applications. Apply online at acro.police.uk. You will need proof of ID and a recent proof of address. ACRO offers two service levels: Standard (up to 20 working days) and Premium (around 2 working days). In practice, most applicants receive their certificate in around 4 weeks on the standard service, though this can vary. Once received, the original must be Apostilled by the FCDO before submission. The certificate is valid for 3 months from date of issue, so time your application to avoid it expiring before your BLS appointment. Full ACRO contact details are in the Contacts section of this guide.

UK — Weeks Before

Apostille All Documents

Most documents require an Apostille — the official government authentication that makes UK documents legally recognised in Spain. This applies to your criminal record certificate, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), any financial documents from official bodies, and your medical certificate — which must be stamped by your doctor before apostilling. The FCDO Apostille Service takes 2–4 weeks standard, or around 1 week via the premium service. Check the consulate’s current requirements carefully — not every document needs apostilling.

UK — Weeks Before

Certified Spanish Translations

All non-Spanish documents must be translated by a certified (sworn) translator — not just any bilingual person. Use only translators certified by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAEC). Costs typically run to £80–£150 per document. Allow 1–2 weeks. Do not use online or AI translation tools — these will be rejected without exception.

UK — Application Time

Complete Form EX-01

This is the official Spanish NLV application form, available from the consulate’s website. It must be completed in Spanish. Many applicants use a gestor (Spanish administrative specialist) or immigration lawyer at this stage to ensure total accuracy. One small error — a wrong field, a missing signature — can invalidate the whole application and cost months of delay.

🌞 Big Sunshine Homes Tip: Appoint a Specialist Immigration Adviser

We cannot stress this strongly enough: please appoint a qualified specialist immigration adviser or Spanish immigration lawyer to guide you through this entire process. The NLV application involves multiple government departments, strict documentation standards, consulate-specific quirks, and tight legal deadlines. A single mistake — a wrong date, a missing apostille, an incorrectly worded insurance certificate — can result in outright rejection and months of costly delay.

A good immigration specialist will manage your document checklist, ensure everything meets the specific requirements of your consulate, complete Form EX-01 correctly, handle your TIE application once in Spain, and manage your renewals. The fee — typically €500–€2,000 for the full process — is genuinely one of the best investments you can make in your move. We work with trusted immigration professionals and can refer you to the right person. Just ask us.

UK — Application Day

Attend Your Consulate Appointment

It is strongly advisable to attend with all original documents plus two complete sets of photocopies. BLS staff process a high volume of applications and having everything copied and clearly organised from the outset ensures your appointment runs smoothly and without unnecessary delays. Originals will be inspected and in some cases retained; your copies demonstrate thoroughness and help if any question arises during processing. Keep a third set at home for your own records. Also bring two recent passport-size photographs. Pay the visa fee (approximately £516 per applicant plus a £14.85 BLS service charge — verify current rates on the BLS website). BLS will retain your passport on behalf of the consulate for the processing period. Processing typically takes around 4 weeks, though it can run longer. You will not be able to travel abroad while your passport is held. Do NOT book one-way flights to Spain or commit to any property transaction before receiving your visa.

Critical Window

Enter Spain Within the Visa Validity Window

The NLV is issued for 1 year and you now have the full 12 months from the date of issue to make your first entry into Spain — this was recently increased from 90 days, giving you considerably more flexibility to plan your move. However, once you enter Spain on your visa, you have just 30 days to apply for your Spanish residency card (TIE). Do not delay on this step once you have arrived.

In Spain — Within 30 Days of Arrival

Apply for Your TIE (Residency Card)

The Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) is your official Spanish residency card. Apply at your local Oficina de Extranjeros (Immigration Office) or National Police Station (Comisaría) using form EX-17. Bring: passport, visa, two photos, proof of address in Spain, healthcare cover documentation, and your original financial evidence. The TIE is typically issued within 30–45 days of your appointment. This is the moment you become an official Spanish resident.

In Spain — After TIE

Register on the Padrón Municipal

The Padrón is the local residents’ register at your Town Hall (Ayuntamiento). Registration is separate from immigration registration and is important for accessing public services, healthcare enrolment, children’s schooling, and establishing your official local address. Bring your passport, TIE card, and proof of address (rental contract or property deeds).

In Spain — First Year

Renew the NLV: Year 2 & Beyond

After the first year, the NLV is renewed for 2-year periods at a time (using form EX-17) at your local immigration office in Spain — you no longer need to return to the UK. You must continue to demonstrate sufficient income and maintain your healthcare cover. After 5 consecutive years of legal residency you may apply for long-term residency; after 10 years, Spanish citizenship.

Realistic Application Timeline

Month 1 — Start Immediately

Begin ACRO Criminal Record Check

Apply via ACRO online at acro.police.uk — not the DBS. Standard service takes around 4 weeks; premium takes around 2 working days. Once received it must be apostilled, so factor in additional time. Also start researching health insurance providers and Spanish immigration lawyers or gestores.

Month 2

Gather Financial Evidence & Healthcare Cover

Collect 6 months of bank statements, pension award letters, investment summaries. Get health insurance quotes and apply for a policy (or begin S1 application if eligible). Book your consulate appointment — expect 6–12 week wait.

Month 3

Apostille Documents & Commission Translations

Submit ACRO Police Certificate for FCDO Apostille. Send all required documents for certified Spanish translation. Complete form EX-01 with professional help.

Month 4

Submit Visa Application at Consulate

Attend your appointment with your full document pack. Leave your passport with the consulate. Begin seriously researching Spanish property in your target area with Sunshine Homes.

Months 5–6

Visa Processing — Your Passport is with BLS

Await the consulate decision (typically around 4 weeks, though it can run longer). Important: your passport will have been retained by BLS on behalf of the consulate at your appointment and will not be returned until your visa is issued. This means you cannot travel abroad during this period. Use this time to research your target areas thoroughly online, shortlist properties with Sunshine Homes, and prepare for the next steps — but do NOT commit to a purchase or sign any contracts until your visa is confirmed.

Month 6–7

Visa Granted — Enter Spain & Begin Residency

Enter Spain within your validity window. Find or confirm your accommodation. Apply for TIE within 30 days. Register on the Padrón. Now begin your property purchase process in earnest.

Applicants	Monthly Requirement	Annual Equivalent	Notes
Main applicant (solo)	~€2,400/month	~€28,800/year	Based on 400% of Spanish minimum wage. Verify current figure with consulate.
Couple (2 applicants)	~€3,000/month	~€36,000/year	Each additional adult adds ~€600/month
Family of 4	~€4,200/month	~€50,400/year	2 adults + 2 children at ~€600 per dependent

Item	Approximate Cost	Notes
Visa application fee	£100–£140	Payable at consulate. Verify current rate.
ACRO Police Certificate	£65–£115	Standard (~4 weeks) or Premium (~2 working days). Apply at acro.police.uk
FCDO Apostille per document	£30–£75 each	2–4 weeks standard; 1 week premium
Certified translations	£80–£150 per doc	MAEC-certified translators only
Private health insurance (per adult)	€80–€180/month	Ongoing. Older applicants pay more. Not required if S1 accepted.
Immigration lawyer / gestor	€500–€2,000	Highly recommended. Dramatically reduces error risk.
TIE application fee	~€15	Modelo 790 fee
NIE number	~€10	Required before any property transaction in Spain

The Critical Warning

The Capital Gains Tax Trap That Costs Relocators Thousands

This is the section of this guide that can save — or cost — you tens of thousands of pounds. Read it carefully. Many people relocating to Spain after selling their UK home fall into a devastating tax trap that was entirely avoidable with the right timing.

The Problem: When You Become a Spanish Tax Resident Changes Everything

Spain considers you a Spanish tax resident if you spend more than 183 days in Spain in any calendar year, or if your main centre of economic or personal interests is in Spain. Once you are a Spanish tax resident, Spain has the right to tax your worldwide income and gains — including the profit on the sale of your UK home.

⚠️ The Classic Trap Scenario

You sell your UK home in October. You have lived in it for 20 years, so in the UK you benefit from Principal Private Residence (PPR) relief and pay zero UK Capital Gains Tax. But you have already been living in Spain since February of that same year — making you a Spanish tax resident for that calendar year. Spain’s tax authority (AEAT) now views the gain on your UK house sale as taxable in Spain. Spanish CGT rates on property gains run from 19% to 28%. On a £200,000 gain, that could mean €50,000+ in unexpected Spanish tax.

⚠️ The 183-Day Trap

You spend January to June (182 days) in Spain, then sell your UK house in July and return to the UK briefly. You believe you are safe. But if you return to Spain in August and spend the remainder of the year there, you may still be classified as a Spanish tax resident for that year — or trigger a residency argument that is expensive to resolve.

✓ The Solution: Sequence and Timing

In most cases, the safest approach is to complete the sale of your UK home before you become a Spanish tax resident. This typically means: selling before you physically move to Spain and staying under 183 days in Spain in that calendar year. Alternatively, take specialist cross-border tax advice — from an adviser who understands both UK and Spanish tax law simultaneously — well before you begin the relocation process. Do not rely on a UK-only accountant or a Spain-only tax adviser for this; you need both perspectives in one place.

🚨 Sunshine Homes Strongly Recommends

Before you move to Spain, before you sell your UK home, and ideally before you even apply for your NLV, consult a specialist dual-jurisdiction tax adviser. The cost of that advice is a fraction of the potential tax liability. We can introduce you to trusted specialists — simply get in touch and ask. This applies whether you own one property or several.

UK PPR Relief

If you have lived in your UK home as your main residence, you may pay 0% UK CGT on the gain — but only if you have not already become a Spanish tax resident first.

Spain CGT Rates

Spanish CGT on gains: 19% on first €6k; 21% on €6k–€50k; 23% on €50k–€200k; 27% on €200k–€300k; 28% above €300k.

The Double Tax Treaty

The UK–Spain Double Tax Treaty may offer some protection but does not always prevent Spanish taxation of UK property gains. Treaty interaction is complex — specialist advice is essential.

Other Tax Obligations

As a Spanish tax resident you must file an annual Spanish return (Modelo 100), declare overseas assets over €50,000 (Modelo 720), and may be subject to Wealth Tax depending on your region and asset values.

Once You Arrive

Getting Settled: Residency & Life Admin in Spain

Arriving in Spain with your NLV is just the beginning. Here is everything you need to do in your first weeks and months to establish yourself legally and practically as a Spanish resident.

Within 30 Days — Mandatory

Apply for TIE at Oficina de Extranjeros

Book an appointment at your local immigration office or national police station using the CITA PREVIA system at icp.administracionelectronica.gob.es. Bring passport, visa, photos, healthcare documentation, financial proof, and proof of address. Pay Modelo 790 fee (~€15). Your TIE card will be ready to collect within 30–45 days.

Early Priority

Register on the Padrón Municipal

Visit your local Town Hall (Ayuntamiento) with proof of address and passport. Registration is free. Your Padrón certificate is required for many subsequent steps including healthcare enrolment, school registration for children, and some renewal processes.

First Month

Open a Spanish Bank Account

A Spanish bank account is essential for paying utility bills, direct debits, property costs, and purchase transactions. Major banks serving international buyers include Santander, CaixaBank, and BBVA. You will need your NIE, passport, and proof of address.

🌐 Also Consider: A Multi-Currency Online Account

Before or alongside a traditional Spanish bank account, many relocators now open a multi-currency online account with a euro denomination. Providers such as Wise (formerly TransferWise), Revolut, and Starling Bank offer euro IBANs that are widely accepted for Spanish direct debits, utility bills, and everyday spending — often with far lower fees than high-street banks and excellent exchange rates. A Wise or Revolut euro account can be opened from the UK in minutes and is extremely useful as a bridging account while your traditional Spanish bank account is being set up. Note: for property completion transactions, a traditional Spanish bank account is usually still required by the notary.

First 3 Months & Beyond

Register with a GP & Understand Your Healthcare Options

NLV holders do not automatically gain free access to the Spanish public health system simply by virtue of holding the visa — public healthcare in Spain is primarily funded through social security contributions, which NLV holders do not make. Your private insurance is therefore your primary healthcare cover, and you must maintain a compliant policy throughout your residency. If you hold an S1, register this at your local INSS office and obtain your SIP card at the Centro de Salud.

📌 The Convenio Especial — After 12 Months of Residency

After you have been a legal resident in Spain for at least 12 months and are registered on the Padrón, you become eligible for the Convenio Especial — a voluntary scheme that lets you pay into the Spanish public health system directly. The monthly contribution is approximately €60 per month if you are under 65, or €157 per month if you are 65 or over. Each adult applies and pays separately; dependants are not automatically covered.

The Convenio Especial gives you access to most public health services, though some limitations apply around certain specialist treatments and prescriptions. It does not replace your private insurance for NLV renewal purposes — Spanish immigration authorities still require a compliant private policy at each renewal. Many long-term residents use both: private insurance to satisfy the immigration requirement, and the Convenio Especial to access GP and hospital services cost-effectively. As premiums rise with age, the Convenio Especial becomes an increasingly attractive supplement. Speak to a Spanish immigration lawyer or financial adviser for guidance on the right combination for your circumstances.

First 3 Months

Establish Your Spanish Tax Position

Engage a Spanish tax adviser (asesor fiscal) to clarify your tax residency status, file your first Spanish return if required, and ensure Modelo 720 compliance. Also notify HMRC of your Spanish residency via the P85 form, as this affects your UK tax position, state pension, and any UK-source income.

Within 6 Months of TIE

Driving Licence Exchange (Canje)

UK licence holders may drive in Spain for 6 months from the date of their TIE, after which you must exchange your UK licence for a Spanish one at the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico). It typically takes 3–6 months to process so begin early. You do not need to retake your test.

🔄 Renewing Your NLV — And the 5-Year Absence Rule You Must Understand

Your initial NLV is valid for 1 year. Renewal applications are submitted at your local immigration office in Spain (not the UK consulate or BLS) using form EX-17, ideally 60 days before expiry. Subsequent renewals are for 2-year periods. Continue to demonstrate sufficient income and maintain your healthcare cover throughout. Missing the renewal window is a serious legal matter — set calendar reminders well in advance.

Critical: The 10-Month Absence Rule and Your Path to Permanent Residency

If your goal is to apply for Long-Term (Permanent) Residency after 5 years — which is the natural next step for most NLV holders — you must understand the absence limits now, not in year four. Spanish immigration law requires that your residency over those 5 years be continuous. In practice, this means two rules apply simultaneously:

You cannot be absent from Spain for more than 6 consecutive months at any one time.
Your total absences must not exceed 10 months across the entire 5-year period.

That works out at an average of just 2 months per year outside Spain. It sounds manageable — and for most residents it is — but it catches people out who take extended trips back to the UK, spend long periods caring for family abroad, or mistakenly believe their residency card protects them regardless of where they physically are. It does not. The Spanish authorities are implementing new digital tracking systems expected to be operational by late 2025, meaning absence checks at the permanent residency stage are likely to become stricter and more consistent.

If you exceed the 10-month cumulative limit, you will not necessarily lose your NLV — you can continue renewing it in 2-year periods — but your 5-year clock may effectively reset, delaying your route to permanent residency. Keep a personal record of every trip you make, retain old passports (stamps are evidence), and speak to your immigration lawyer before any extended absence from Spain. Good record-keeping now prevents serious problems later.

NLV Relocation Checklist | sunshine-homes.es | hello@sunshine-homes.es | +34 711 020 343

Your Personal Action Plan

The Complete Relocation Checklist

Print this checklist and work through it methodically. Items with a red checkbox border are critical — errors or omissions at these points can invalidate your application or create serious legal or financial problems.

📞 View Key Contacts

📋 Phase 1: UK Preparation (Months 1–3)

Consult a dual-jurisdiction (UK+Spain) tax adviser re: property sale & CGT timing
Apply for DBS Enhanced Criminal Record Certificate (allow 8–10 weeks)
Research and confirm your Spanish consulate jurisdiction (London / Edinburgh / Manchester)
Book consulate appointment (allow 6–12 weeks wait)
Obtain NLV application form EX-01 from consulate website
Gather 6 months’ bank statements showing required income
Obtain pension award letters or investment income evidence
Obtain or apply for NIE number
Obtain certified copies of birth certificate(s)
Obtain marriage certificate if applicable
Check passport validity (min. 1 year beyond intended visa period)
If receiving UK State Pension, enquire about S1 form via NHSBSA (0191 218 1999)

🏥️ Phase 2: Healthcare & Documents (Months 2–3)

Research Spanish-authorised health insurance providers
Purchase comprehensive private health insurance (no co-payments) OR confirm S1 route with consulate
Submit DBS certificate for FCDO Apostille
Apostille birth certificate(s)
Apostille marriage certificate if applicable
Commission certified Spanish translations of all required documents (MAEC-certified translators only)
Instruct Spanish immigration lawyer or gestor
Complete form EX-01 (with lawyer/gestor help)
Prepare 2 recent passport photographs (white background)
Gather proof of accommodation in Spain (rental agreement or purchase intent letter)

🏛️ Phase 3: Consulate Application

Attend consulate appointment with complete document pack (originals AND copies)
Pay visa application fee
Leave passport with consulate
Note expected processing time given by consulate
Do NOT book one-way flights or commit to a property purchase yet
Begin area research and property search with Sunshine Homes during waiting period
Arrange secure storage for UK belongings if downsizing
Notify UK bank of planned move abroad
Research international money transfer services (Wise, CurrencyFair, OFX) and consider opening a Wise or Revolut euro account now
Notify HMRC of intended departure (P85 form)

✈️ Phase 4: Visa Granted — Moving to Spain

Note the entry validity window on your visa — enter Spain within this period
Enter Spain with all original documents
Book CITA PREVIA appointment for TIE within first week of arrival
Confirm or arrange accommodation (rental or owned property)
Arrange mail redirection in UK
Notify UK pension provider(s) of new Spanish address
Register with local Town Hall (Padrón) as soon as address is established
If S1 route: register S1 at local INSS office on arrival

📄 Phase 5: TIE & Residency (Within 30 Days)

Attend TIE appointment at Oficina de Extranjeros / Police Station
Bring: passport, visa, 2 photos, healthcare docs, proof of income, proof of address
Pay Modelo 790 fee (~€15)
Collect TIE card when notified (30–45 days)
Register on Padrón at local Ayuntamiento
Open Spanish bank account (bring NIE, passport, proof of address) — or open a Wise/Revolut euro account as an interim solution
Arrange transfer of funds from UK to Spanish account
Register with local Centro de Salud for SIP card
Begin driving licence exchange process (canje) with DGT

🏠 Phase 6: Property Purchase

Confirm NIE is obtained before any purchase transaction
Instruct independent Spanish lawyer (abogado) — separate from the estate agent
Engage Sunshine Homes to search your target area
Confirm total budget including 10–14% for purchase costs
Get currency exchange rate locked with international transfer service
Lawyer to conduct full legal due diligence on chosen property
Sign reservation agreement and pay reservation deposit
Sign Private Purchase Contract (CCP) and pay 10% deposit
Ensure Spanish bank account is funded for completion
Attend completion (escritura) at Notary with lawyer
Pay purchase taxes (ITP or IVA) within 30 days of completion
Register title deeds at Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad)
Transfer utilities into your name
Set up building and contents insurance

💰 Phase 7: Tax & Financial Compliance

Consult Spanish asesor fiscal to confirm tax residency status
File Modelo 720 (overseas asset declaration) by 31 March if assets exceed €50,000
File annual Spanish income tax return (Modelo 100) — deadline 30 June
Review UK tax position — confirm non-residency with HMRC (P85)
Review state pension forecast — voluntary NI contributions may be worth topping up
Consider Spanish wealth tax exposure (varies by region)
Review UK ISAs, pensions, and savings for cross-border tax treatment

🔄 Phase 8: Ongoing Annual Compliance

Renew NLV/TIE 60 days before expiry (form EX-17 at local immigration office)
Maintain healthcare cover — do not let private insurance lapse (if applicable)
File annual Spanish tax return (Modelo 100)
File Modelo 720 if overseas assets have changed significantly
Ensure you spend 183+ days in Spain per year to maintain residency
Update Padrón if you change address within Spain
Keep TIE card safe — it is your primary ID document in Spain
Review health cover annually for adequacy and cost

Your Rolodex

Key Contacts & Resources

The key organisations and contacts you will need at each stage of your relocation journey, all in one place.

NLV Applications — BLS International (Official Visa Partner)

ℹ️ Important: Applications Are Now Handled by BLS International

Since late 2023, all NLV applications in the UK are processed through BLS International Services — the outsourced partner to the Spanish Consulates. Do not contact the consulates directly for appointments or application queries. All bookings and submissions go through BLS. The shared phone number for all three centres is +44 20 3807 0750 (Mon–Fri, 09:00–17:00). The BLS website is uk.blsspainvisa.com.

BLS International — Visa Application Centre

BLS London

Area: England (excl. North), Wales

Address: 20 St Andrew Street, London EC4A 3AG

Phone: +44 20 3807 0750

Email: info.lhr@blshelpline.com

Web: uk.blsspainvisa.com/london

BLS International — Visa Application Centre

BLS Edinburgh

Area: Scotland, Northern Ireland

Address: 6 Dock Place, Suite 1A, First Floor, Edinburgh EH6 6LU

Phone: +44 20 3807 0750

Email: info.edi@blshelpline.com

Web: uk.blsspainvisa.com/edinburgh

BLS International — Visa Application Centre

BLS Manchester

Area: North of England (check postcode jurisdiction)

Address: Unit 1, 205 Chapel Street, Salford M3 5PF

Phone: +44 20 3807 0750

Email: info.man@blshelpline.com

Web: uk.blsspainvisa.com/manchester

Spanish Government & Immigration

Immigration Appointments

Cita Previa Extranjería

Purpose: Book TIE, renewal, and other immigration appointments in Spain

Web: icp.administracionelectronica.gob.es

Note: Appointments fill fast — book as soon as you arrive in Spain

Spanish Tax Authority

AEAT — Agencia Tributaria

Purpose: Spanish tax returns, Modelo 720, NIE, tax certificates

Web: agenciatributaria.es

Phone: 901 33 55 33 (within Spain)

Traffic Authority

DGT — Dirección General de Tráfico

Purpose: Driving licence exchange (canje), vehicle registration

Web: dgt.es

Note: Begin canje within 6 months of obtaining TIE

Social Security

INSS — Seguridad Social

Purpose: Social security, healthcare, S1 form registration

Web: seg-social.es

Phone: 900 20 22 22 (within Spain)

UK Government Resources

Criminal Record Certificate

ACRO — Criminal Records Office

Purpose: Police Certificate for NLV and Spanish visa applications (not DBS)

Web: acro.police.uk

Phone: +44 1962 871111 (Mon–Fri, 08:30–16:30)

Note: Apply online. Standard service ~4 weeks; Premium ~2 working days. Start this first.

Healthcare Abroad

NHSBSA — Overseas Healthcare (S1)

Purpose: S1 form for UK State Pension/benefit recipients

Phone: 0191 218 1999 (or +44 191 218 1999 from Spain)

Web: nhsbsa.nhs.uk/healthcare-abroad

Document Authentication

FCDO Apostille Service

Purpose: Apostille for UK documents required by Spanish authorities

Web: gov.uk/get-document-legalised

Note: Allow 2–4 weeks standard or 5 days premium

Tax & Pensions

HMRC & DWP — Leaving the UK

P85 Form: gov.uk/tax-right-retire-abroad

State Pension Abroad: gov.uk/state-pension-if-you-retire-abroad

Int’l Pension Centre: +44 191 218 7777

Certified Translators

MAEC — Spanish Ministry (Translator Directory)

Purpose: Find official sworn translators authorised by Spain

Web: maec.es (translators directory)

Note: Only translators on this list are accepted by Spanish consulates

Sunshine Homes — Your Property & Relocation Partner

Real Estate — Costa Blanca & Costa Cálida

Sunshine Homes

Web: sunshine-homes.es

Email: hello@sunshine-homes.es

WhatsApp: +34 711 020 343

Location: Ciudad Quesada, Alicante, Spain

What We Can Do For You

More Than Just Property Search

We help you find the right home in the right place at the right budget — and we can refer you to the lawyers, tax advisers, gestores and mortgage specialists you need at every stage.

WhatsApp Us Email Us

Your New Life in Spain.Done Properly.

Spain Is Calling.Here’s How You Answer Correctly.

300+ Days of Sunshine

World-Class Healthcare

Lower Cost of Living

Outstanding Property Value

Easy Connections

EU Lifestyle

What Is the NLV, and Is It Right for You?

Who It’s For

What It Allows

What It Does NOT Allow

The NLV Application: A to Z

Book Your Application Through BLS International

Gather Proof of Income / Financial Means

Healthcare Cover: Private Insurance or the S1 Route

Criminal Record Certificate — ACRO Police Certificate

Apostille All Documents

Certified Spanish Translations

Complete Form EX-01

Attend Your Consulate Appointment

Enter Spain Within the Visa Validity Window

Apply for Your TIE (Residency Card)

Register on the Padrón Municipal

Renew the NLV: Year 2 & Beyond

Realistic Application Timeline

Begin ACRO Criminal Record Check

Gather Financial Evidence & Healthcare Cover

Apostille Documents & Commission Translations

Submit Visa Application at Consulate

Visa Processing — Your Passport is with BLS

Visa Granted — Enter Spain & Begin Residency

Financial Requirements & Costs

Monthly Income Requirements (2025/26)

Application & Setup Costs

The Capital Gains Tax Trap That Costs Relocators Thousands

The Problem: When You Become a Spanish Tax Resident Changes Everything

⚠️ The Classic Trap Scenario

⚠️ The 183-Day Trap

✓ The Solution: Sequence and Timing

UK PPR Relief

Spain CGT Rates

The Double Tax Treaty

Other Tax Obligations

Getting Settled: Residency & Life Admin in Spain

Apply for TIE at Oficina de Extranjeros

Register on the Padrón Municipal

Open a Spanish Bank Account

Register with a GP & Understand Your Healthcare Options

Establish Your Spanish Tax Position

Driving Licence Exchange (Canje)

Visa First. Property Second.

Finding Your Home in Spain — With Experts Who Understand the Journey

Buying Property in Spain: The Key Steps

1. Get Your NIE First

2. Instruct an Independent Spanish Lawyer

3. Reservation Agreement & Deposit

4. Private Purchase Contract (CCP)

5. Open Spanish Bank Account & Fund It

6. Completion (Escritura) at Notary

The Complete Relocation Checklist

📋 Phase 1: UK Preparation (Months 1–3)

🏥️ Phase 2: Healthcare & Documents (Months 2–3)

🏛️ Phase 3: Consulate Application

✈️ Phase 4: Visa Granted — Moving to Spain

📄 Phase 5: TIE & Residency (Within 30 Days)

🏠 Phase 6: Property Purchase

💰 Phase 7: Tax & Financial Compliance

🔄 Phase 8: Ongoing Annual Compliance

Key Contacts & Resources

NLV Applications — BLS International (Official Visa Partner)

BLS London

BLS Edinburgh

BLS Manchester

Spanish Government & Immigration

Cita Previa Extranjería

AEAT — Agencia Tributaria

DGT — Dirección General de Tráfico

INSS — Seguridad Social

UK Government Resources

Your New Life in Spain.
Done Properly.

Spain Is Calling.
Here’s How You Answer Correctly.

Let’s Begin
Your Journey to Spain