NLV Sworn Statement: Proving You Won't Work in Spain

For Non-Lucrative Visa applicants, the sworn statement about not working looks simple. But it is frequently mishandled because applicants treat it like generic paperwork, not a consistency check against the rest of the file.

What the Statement Is For

The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) is residence without gainful activity in Spain. Consulates may ask a notarized affidavit confirming that commitment and explaining your situation.

This is not just a formality. Officers compare it against:

• Your financial evidence
• Your professional background
• Your intention and residence plan in Spain

What Consulates Commonly Ask to See

Depending on jurisdiction, many applicants include:

1. Brief professional background
2. Reason for moving to Spain
3. Intended stay length and initial Spanish address
4. Explicit commitment not to perform work activities (onsite or remote) under NLV

Some consulates ask for Spanish language text or sworn translation.

How to Draft It Well

Keep it clear and specific:

• Use your legal name exactly as in passport
• Reference NLV context directly
• Avoid vague wording like "I do not plan to work much"
• State the commitment in unambiguous terms
• Align dates and address with your application forms

Consistency Checks That Matter

Your affidavit can fail if the rest of your file says the opposite.

Examples:

• Affidavit says no work, but bank statements show active freelance payments as ongoing labor income
• Affidavit says retired, but no pension/income basis is documented
• Affidavit residence plan conflicts with EX-01 address details

Notary and Translation Notes

• Follow your consulate's notarization instructions strictly
• If drafted in English, verify whether sworn Spanish translation is required
• Keep original signed and notarized version plus copies

Common Refusal Triggers

• Generic affidavit copied from internet with no personal details
• Missing notary formalities required by your jurisdiction
• No clear statement about remote/online work prohibition under NLV
• Financial file that implies active work despite affidavit language

What to Do This Week

1. Download your consulate's latest NLV checklist.
2. Draft affidavit with exact identity, address, and timeline consistency.
3. Book notary and translation (if required) before your visa appointment.
4. Cross-check affidavit against bank and income documents.
5. Keep a final PDF package and physical originals ready for submission day.

If NLV is not the right fit because you need to keep working, compare with Spanish Digital Nomad Visa 2026: Salary Requirements and Net vs. Gross Income.