Background Check for Spain Non-Lucrative Visa
A clean criminal record is a mandatory requirement for the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa. You must provide a background check from every country where you have lived for the past 5 years. For most applicants, this means a check from your home country.
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By Bruno Bianchi, CEO of Spainguru (225,000+ community members) · Updated October 2026
For US Applicants: FBI Background Check
Americans need an FBI Identity History Summary, commonly called an FBI background check. Here is the process:
- Option 1: FBI eDO online portal (fastest) — Submit through edo.cjis.gov. Results typically in 3–5 business days. Costs $18.
- Option 2: FBI-approved channeler — Use a channeler like Identogo or PrintScan. Fingerprinting done in person, full result in 1–3 business days. Costs around $40–75.
- Option 3: Direct FBI mail submission — Mail your fingerprint card directly to the FBI. Takes 8–12 weeks. Costs $18.
After receiving the FBI check, you must get it apostilled by the US Department of State in Washington, DC, then have it sworn-translated into Spanish.
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Browse Vetted Lawyers →For UK Applicants: ACRO Police Certificate
British citizens need an ACRO Police Certificate (also called a Subject Access Request for international use):
- Apply online through the ACRO Criminal Records Office
- Processing time: approximately 10-15 business days
- Cost: around 55 GBP
- Then apostille through the FCDO and get it sworn-translated
Important Timing Notes
Background checks have a limited validity period — most consulates require them to be dated within 3-6 months of your application. Plan accordingly:
- Do not get the background check too early — it may expire before you apply
- Factor in apostille and translation time after receiving the check
- FBI channelers are much faster than direct FBI submission — use a channeler if your timeline is tight
Step-by-Step Process
- Get your background check (FBI/ACRO)
- Get the apostille (US Dept of State / UK FCDO)
- Get the sworn translation into Spanish
- Submit with your NLV application
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Browse Vetted LawyersDisclaimer: general information only — not legal, tax or immigration advice. Requirements change and vary by consulate; verify with your consulate or a qualified professional before acting.