Non-Lucrative Visa holders have options to switch visas by applying for a different category that suits their new circumstances, such as work or student visas.
Non-Lucrative Visa holders in Spain who wish to transition to a different type of visa have several options available to them. The process typically involves meeting the eligibility criteria for the new visa type and submitting the appropriate application. Here’s how they can make the transition:
1. Transition to a Work Visa
- Eligibility: To transition to a work visa, the Non-Lucrative Visa holder must secure a job offer from a Spanish employer willing to sponsor the work permit.
- Process:
- Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from a company in Spain.
- Work Permit Application: The employer applies for a work permit on behalf of the visa holder through the local immigration office (Oficina de Extranjería).
- Change of Status: Once the work permit is approved, the visa holder can apply to change their Non-Lucrative Visa to a work visa.
- Considerations: This process may require the employer to prove that the job cannot be filled by a local worker.
2. Transition to an Entrepreneur Visa
- Eligibility: This option is for those who wish to start a business in Spain. The Entrepreneur Visa (Ley de Emprendedores) is ideal for individuals with a viable business plan that benefits the Spanish economy.
- Process:
- Business Plan: Develop a detailed and viable business plan.
- Application Submission: Submit the business plan and visa application to the appropriate authorities, such as the UGE-CE (Unidad de Grandes Empresas y Colectivos Estratégicos).
- Approval: If the business plan is approved, the Non-Lucrative Visa can be transitioned to an Entrepreneur Visa.
- Considerations: The business should ideally create jobs and contribute to economic growth in Spain.
3. Transition to a Student Visa
- Eligibility: Those who want to pursue further education in Spain can transition to a student visa.
- Process:
- Enrollment: Gain admission to an accredited educational institution in Spain.
- Application for Student Visa: Apply for a student visa at the local immigration office, providing proof of enrollment and financial means.
- Considerations: A student visa allows part-time work and is suitable for those looking to study and live in Spain.
4. Transition to a Golden Visa
- Eligibility: The Golden Visa is available for individuals making a significant investment in Spain, such as purchasing real estate worth at least €500,000.
- Process:
- Make an Investment: Purchase real estate or make another qualifying investment.
- Apply for Golden Visa: Submit an application for the Golden Visa, which offers residency and work rights in Spain.
- Considerations: The Golden Visa also allows for easier travel within the Schengen Area and family reunification.
5. Long-Term Residency (Permanent Residency)
- Eligibility: After five years of continuous legal residency in Spain, Non-Lucrative Visa holders may apply for long-term residency.
- Process:
- Submit Application: Provide proof of continuous residency, financial stability, and health insurance.
- Considerations: Long-term residency grants more flexibility and similar rights to EU citizens in terms of work and travel.
Key Considerations:
- Legal Advice: Consulting with an immigration lawyer or advisor can help navigate the complex process of changing visa status.
- Timing: It’s crucial to start the application process before the current Non-Lucrative Visa expires to ensure legal residency status is maintained.
By understanding the requirements and processes involved, Non-Lucrative Visa holders can smoothly transition to a visa that aligns with their long-term goals in Spain.