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Typical Timeline for Applying for a Spanish Digital Nomad Visa (DNV)

The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) offers remote workers and freelancers a fantastic opportunity to live in Spain while maintaining their foreign employment.

However, the timeline for securing this visa can vary based on your preparation, the specific consulate, and the details of your case.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical process and timeline for obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa in Spain:

1. Preparation Stage (1-2 Weeks)

The first step is gathering the required documents, including proof of remote employment or freelance contracts, financial stability, health insurance valid in Spain, and police clearance.

Once all documents are in hand, make sure they are correctly translated into Spanish and apostilled if required.

This stage typically takes around 1-2 weeks, assuming you have easy access to the necessary paperwork and translation services.

It also helps to work with an experienced immigration specialist, to ensure your application is complete and error-free.

2. Scheduling the Consulate Appointment (2-4 Weeks)

After gathering your documentation, the next step is to schedule an appointment at the nearest Spanish consulate in your country.

Appointment availability can vary based on location. Major consulates often experience higher demand, so plan for a 2-4 week wait to secure a slot.

Booking your appointment as early as possible, even during document preparation, can help you get a date that aligns with your timeline.

3. Submitting Your Application (Same Day at the Consulate)

On the day of your appointment, you’ll submit your application and documents. Consulate staff will review your application for completeness, and if everything is in order, they will accept it for processing.

Since this step is completed on the same day, ensure that all paperwork is accurate and complete to avoid rescheduling.

4. Application Processing Time (2-6 Weeks)

Once submitted, the DNV application typically takes anything from 2-6 weeks to process.

During this period, the consulate will verify your documentation, financial status, and employment details to ensure you meet the DNV requirements.

Processing times vary based on the consulate’s workload, with busier locations potentially experiencing longer wait times.

5. Notification of Approval or Denial (1-2 Weeks)

After processing, you will be notified by the consulate regarding the decision. If approved, you’ll be informed of the next steps for obtaining your visa, which may involve submitting your passport for the visa stamp.

Notifications usually arrive within 1-2 weeks following the processing period. If denied, the consulate will specify the reason for rejection, allowing you to address any issues and reapply if desired.

6. Collecting Your Visa and Preparing to Enter Spain (Within 12 Weeks of Application)

Once your visa is approved and issued, you typically have up to 90 days to enter Spain. Upon arrival, you’ll have 30 days to apply for the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero), the residency card that confirms your legal status in Spain.

This final step varies in timing, with the TIE card issuance taking an additional 2-3 months depending on the appointment availability and processing times at the local police station or immigration office.

Summary of the Timeline (NB: This is a broad estimate and varies from case to case)

  • Document preparation: 1-2 weeks
  • Consulate appointment scheduling: 2-4 weeks
  • Application processing time: 2-6 weeks
  • Approval notification: 1-2 weeks
  • Entering Spain and TIE application: within 12 weeks post-visa issuance

Total Estimated Time: This varies from 4-12 weeks from consulate appointment to receiving the visa

Next Stop, Spain?

While the timeline for getting a Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa can seem lengthy on paper, thorough preparation and submitting complete documentation can help avoid unnecessary delays.

It’s best to plan ahead and ensure you have ample time to gather documents and book appointments, as some stages, like document authentication and appointment wait times, are out of your control.

If you’re considering applying for the Spanish Non-Lucrative Visa but are unsure of the process or facing delays, our team is here to help.

Book a consultation with us today, and we’ll guide you through every step – from gathering the necessary documents to ensuring your application is error-free.

Our expertise can help avoid common pitfalls and streamline the process, giving you the best chance for approval.

David Poole is a South African entrepreneur and businessman, and founder of Consult Immigration.