New Financial Documentation Rules for Spain’s Non Lucrative Visa in 2025

As of May 2025, several Spanish consulates across the globe have introduced additional financial documentation requirements for the Spain Non Lucrative visa. While the underlying immigration regulation remains unchanged, these updated practices have raised questions and concerns among applicants—particularly around new types of banking documents being requested that are not always standard in other countries.

This article aims to clarify what these new financial requirements mean, why they are being requested, and how prospective applicants can respond effectively.

Updated Financial Documentation: What Is Being Requested?

Although Spain’s immigration law has not been formally revised, several consulates (such as the one in Washington D.C.) have updated their internal guidelines. Applicants are now expected to submit the following financial documents:

• A certificate from the bank that clearly states the bank’s name and address.

• Full account identification, including the account holder’s name and complete account number.

• A certificate specifying the date the account was opened (and closed, if applicable).

• A document showing the account balance as of December 31 of the year prior to application.

• A separate certificate reflecting the average balance for the same prior year.

These additions are reportedly meant to enhance transparency and verify the applicant’s financial stability. However, this has created logistical difficulties, especially for individuals whose banks do not normally provide such documents or notarized certifications.

Why Have Consulates Introduced These Measures?

It appears these changes are driven by internal policy decisions, possibly coordinated by Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The intent seems to be reducing the submission of misleading or incomplete financial records. However, the process can feel disproportionately demanding—particularly when outsourced visa agencies like BLS request documents that go beyond the formal requirements.

Still, the legal threshold for approval remains clear: applicants must demonstrate sufficient economic means to support themselves in Spain, without engaging in local employment.

Do You Really Need to Provide a Year-End Balance?

Yes—according to recent guidance from several consulates, applicants are now being asked to prove their account balance on December 31 of the previous year. For example, if you are applying in 2025, your bank must certify your balance as of December 31, 2024. Additionally, a separate document showing the average account balance for all of 2024 is being requested.

Naturally, this raises issues for applicants who may have only recently received funds—for instance, through the sale of a home or an inheritance early in the new year. From a legal standpoint, what matters most is whether the applicant holds sufficient funds at the time of submission. Consulates may accept a contextual explanation with supporting documents to bridge the gap between low prior balances and current financial solvency.

What If Your Bank Can’t Issue These Documents?

This is one of the most common challenges. Many financial institutions—especially in the U.S., UK, and Canada—do not provide year-end or average balance certificates, nor do they offer notarized documents on request. If your bank cannot issue the exact format requested:

• Submit monthly bank statements for the entire prior year.

• Prepare a calculation of the average balance, and, if needed, have this confirmed before a notary public.

• Include a written explanation stating that your financial institution does not issue the specific document requested.

• Aim to demonstrate transparency and good faith—this will often suffice.

As legal practitioners, we frequently help clients prepare documentation that aligns as closely as possible with consulate expectations, even when exact compliance is impossible.

Gifts, Loans, and Third-Party Funds: Are They Allowed?

Yes, but with important caveats.

• Gifts: These are acceptable, particularly when funds are transferred by family members. However, a notarized declaration must accompany the application, confirming the gift is non-repayable and unconditional.

• Loans: Generally discouraged. A loan implies an obligation to repay, which can undermine the perception of financial self-sufficiency—one of the key principles behind the Spain Non Lucrative visa.

In practice, we regularly assist families in drafting gift declarations when adult children are applying independently. This is now essential, as children over 18 must submit separate applications and meet financial requirements individually.

Are These Requirements Official and Uniform Across All Consulates?

At present, these financial documentation changes are not part of the official immigration law. Instead, they reflect evolving consular practices. As such, there is variability depending on the consulate’s location and administrative approach.

Applicants should:

• Closely review the financial document guidelines published by their specific consulate.

• Be prepared to adjust to changing expectations, even if these are not codified in law.

• Seek legal assistance when preparing explanations or substitute documentation.

It is expected that over time, some standardization may develop. For now, a flexible and well-documented approach is your best strategy.

Is the Spain Non Lucrative Visa Being Discontinued?

No. There are no official plans to phase out the Spain Non Lucrative visa. While it remains a complex process, this visa continues to be a valid option for non-EU nationals who wish to reside in Spain without engaging in local employment.

Despite rumors circulating in expat forums and online groups, there is no government announcement suggesting the end of this residency option. What’s clear is that the visa process has become more procedural, not less accessible.

Final Thoughts: Navigating a Complex Landscape

The financial requirements for the Spain Non Lucrative visa in 2025 have become more detailed and, at times, inconsistent across consulates. Nevertheless, the core requirement remains unchanged: the applicant must prove they have sufficient funds at the time of submission.

While the new requests for historical account data and average balances may seem excessive, practical solutions exist. With experienced legal guidance, it is possible to overcome these administrative hurdles and present a strong application—even when banks are unable to provide documents in the exact form requested.

At Sterna Abogados, we are closely monitoring these developments and supporting clients in adapting to the evolving requirements with clarity and confidence.

Contact us at info@sternaabogados.com