Hi Everyone.
We thought people would be interested in our journey to the Non Lucrative Visa so here goes.
We currently own an apartment in Mojacar which we are very happy with. However we are now thinking about living in Spain full time. Yes we know we've missed the Brexit rush for residencies but Brexit is not the end of the story. So the Non Lucrative Visa? Our understanding so far following contacts with our Spanish solicitor and the Spanish Embassy in Manchester.
Firstly you need to complete 2 forms found online EX-01 and 790-52. These are personal details with English notes to help.
You will need to fit the financial criteria for earnings or earnings plus savings or you application will not proceed.
You need two Schengen size photos which you can manage at several online sites.
You will need a medical report highlighting any major ailments. (Doctors surgery will suffice). I believe translated to Spanish.
You will need a criminal history check (Application can be made on line) . Again I believe translated to Spanish.
A private health insurance is required prior to authorising the Visa equivalent to Spanish National Insurance. This can be via a Spanish or UK company operating in Spain. I believe this is not required if you are on state pension as it then becomes reciprocal care between UK and Spain. This seems to cost about €7-800.
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Two visits will be required to the nearest Embassy in the UK. This cannot be done in Spain. Eventually NIE numbers will be issued and fingerprints taken before the visa and TIE is issued. You then become a Spanish tax resident once the visa is activated
You have to be resident in Spain within 3 months or the visa will be cancelled.
I think that's it as far as we are aware. This can be done without a solicitor and obviously costs are saved. There are obvious costs in the health and crime checks along with translation costs.
There are then financial implications. If you on a private pension or have other incomes this has to be declared and tax paid in Spain obviously the UK government needs informing of residency when you will no longer be eligible to NHS care. If you own a UK property which you fail to sell before taking Spanish residency you will be eligible to pay Spanish capital gains tax on the profit you have made! Spanish personal taxes are not as good as UK and you will pay more tax on earnings and investments.
Now having said all that I would be obliged if someone can tell me if I'm right on all points or have I entered something wrong or missed something out.
Hope this is helpful and opens a good positive debate on the pros and cons.
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