I just wanted to post an update regarding prior information. I am trying to get a work permit for freelance work as an English Teacher. I went to Sevilla, rented an apartment, paid a few months in advance. Applied for and obtained my Padron. Opened a bank account. Applied for an NIE with form ex 15, stating a non-lucrative visa. Received my NIE certificate. Signed a contract with Orange for ADSL, so I would be able to do my on line lessons, for which I have a contract from a company in the states to teach their expats via Skype.

Lawbird told me via e-mail that I would not be able to get my NIE, without depositing lots of money in the bank.

My lawyer here in the states, stated oops, the non-lucrative is not the way. But there is a FREELANCER visa, which is not posted on the website for the consulate of spain, which is a ‘loophole’, further stating that a lawyer from Spain sent him a package of info. However, this info, now states that I need a business plan. I am not setting up my own company…...Can anyone shed any light on this PLEASE? My NIE is only good for 3 months. Thank you.

Interesting. I’ve heard rumours of folks getting freelancer visas after setting themselves up as “autonomo” but these were only rumours and I’ve never been able to verify it. I do know someone who sponsored oneself by creating a new SL (limited company), for which he did indeed need a business plan (it was a legit business). Then there is a separate “freelancers visa” but that is really only for journalists.

You shouldn’t need any money deposited to get an NIE, but you might need a pile deposited for your business to register and be able to sponsor you in the case of an SL.

Did you end up getting the non-lucrative visa?

Sounds like you’re blazing an unconventional trail toward immigration… would love to get updates as you go!

Exactly, I thought proving that I am serious and contributing to the “economy” would be a plus. Secondly, getting my NIE prior to the applying to the consulate would shorten the time for a visa. As I walked out of the police station with NIE/certificate in hand, I thought to myself, one hurdle over! No, not going the non-lucrative way, as I stated, I haven’t got $70k. Still waiting for an appointment for the consulate to be scheduled and getting quite nervous about the time frame. The lawyer just e-mailed me and stated that the ‘business plan’ is just a letter setting my purpose, etc. So, that shouldn’t be difficult to draw up, plus, I have my credentials in order. Invoices, payment received, etc from this current contract/client. Guess, I have done things backwards, to move forward. I know there are many people in my situation that would like to do the same. Most of them younger and they go over on a student visa and then just figure it out that way. I shall keep you posted and the rest that come to this site for information. Thank you for your response.

Great, looking forward to them!