In a major procedural shift, the General Consulate of Spain in Melbourne has officially rolled out new rules for applicants seeking a Non-Working Residence Visa, effective immediately from July 24, 2025. This change streamlines the entire visa process but also tightens the protocol with an emphasis on in-person appointments, precise documentation, and clearly defined timelines for all applicants—including dependents.
This long-term visa permits foreign nationals to reside in Spain without engaging in any paid or professional activity, provided they can demonstrate adequate financial resources. Designed for retirees, digital nomads with passive income, and those seeking a peaceful life in Spain’s sun-drenched cities and countryside, this visa also allows qualified family members to join under the same conditions.
What’s New in the Application Process?
The revamped process comprises three critical stages:
1# Appointment Request by Email Only
No walk-ins. All visa appointment requests must now be emailed directly to cog.melbourne.visappt@maec.es, specifying full name, nationality, and type of visa requested. Importantly, appointments are first-come, first-served—with a lead time recommendation of 2 months for Schengen visas and 3 months for national visas, including the Non-Working Residence Visa.
2# In-Person Application Submission
Once the appointment is granted, applicants must physically visit the Spanish Consulate at Level 7, 564 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC 3004, with all required documents in hand.
- NOTE:
- Schengen Visa Appointments: Tuesdays and Thursdays
- National Visa Appointments (including Non-Working): Fridays
- Visa Submission Window: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Cash and money orders are the only acceptable payment methods for the visa fee.
3# Document Collection
Passports and documents must also be collected in person. No mail returns. Collection windows mirror appointment days and do not require separate appointments.
What is the Non-Working Residence Visa?
The Non-Working Residence Visa allows an individual to legally stay in Spain without employment rights. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency—specifically, income or assets worth at least 400% of Spain’s Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator (IPREM) for the primary applicant and 100% of IPREM per accompanying family member. Health insurance and background checks are mandatory.
Who Can Apply Alongside You?
Eligible family members include:
-
- Spouse or registered/unregistered partner
- Dependent children
- Dependent parents
They must each submit a full application package similar to the main applicant, with added proof of the family relationship and financial dependence.
Essential Documentation Checklist
Applicants must prepare:
-
- Completed National Visa Form and EX-01 Form
- Passport (valid for at least one year and issued within the past 10 years)
- Recent passport-size photo
- Proof of financial means
- Comprehensive Spanish health insurance policy
- Criminal record certificate for the past 5 years (translated & apostilled)
- Medical certificate stating the absence of communicable diseases
- Proof of local residency (within Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, or Tasmania)
- Form 790 Code 052 for payment of residence permit fees
(Visa fees: $470 + €18 = approx. $488; rates vary for Australia, US, UK, Canada, and Bangladesh)
Processing Timeline and Outcome
- Standard processing time: 3 months, though extensions may occur for interviews or extra documentation.
- Applicants receive a receipt with a tracking code to monitor their application online.
- Approved visas are valid for 90 days, during which applicants must enter Spain and apply for their Foreigner Identity Card.
In case of denial, the Consulate will issue a written explanation. Appeals may be filed within 1 month (administrative) or 2 months (judicial).
A Strategic Move for Spain?
As countries like Spain attract lifestyle-driven migrants, these streamlined policies highlight a broader effort to balance immigration control with openness to well-supported residents. With Spain’s mild climate, world-class healthcare, and cultural richness, the Non-Working Residence Visa is gaining popularity globally—especially among retirees, remote workers with passive income, and global citizens seeking quality of life.
With applications now accepted exclusively via appointment and no in-person or email inquiries entertained, prospective applicants are urged to act early and ensure their documentation is flawless. Spain might not be offering you a job—but it’s certainly offering you a lifestyle.
REFERENCE:
USE THIS LINK TO CHECK THE REFERENCES