TIE, Banking and Large Purchases

@jfranknichols

You seem to be assuming that the rental contract is only needed for the TIE. However, I think you'll find that many applicants for the NLV in the USA are asked for this as part of their visa application too.

In addition, the TIE needs not just the rental contract, but your padron certificate. So you have to take the rental contract to your local town hall where they'll read it.

My guess is that a contract for a pitch would not meet their requirements.

The cheapest apartment rental (furnished) in our city (Elche, Alicante) is 500 euros per month. But if you go a bit more off the beaten track, I reckon 300 euros is possible.

You need a long-term contract (e.g. a year) for the town hall/padron, BUT once you have your NLV and TIE, you no longer need to keep this contract. Unlike the USA, there's normally no great problem in breaking your lease. So if you give a month's notice, you're off the hook for the rent (but you'll probably lose your deposit). Realistically, you could probably get away with 3 months cost (2 rent, 1 deposit) or about 900 euros on the cheapest rental possible. Plus you could stay there for a few days which saves on hotel costs. However, you might need a rental contract again when you renew your NLV (unless you've purchased an apartment/house by then).

I was under the impression that if you live in a camper van you cannot register on the padrón, which is necessary to obtain a resident's permit (as well as many other things)

Hi Frank,

Thanks for reaching out with these questions. You’ve clearly done a lot of research, and I’d be happy to offer some additional insights to help you make informed decisions.

Residency & TIE Requirements:

RV Park Rental:

While an RV park may be a cost-effective option, the Spanish authorities require proof of a fixed, permanent residence for the TIE application. Renting an RV spot, even on a year-long contract, may not be sufficient. They typically prefer a traditional residence (e.g., apartment or house) as a valid address.

Subletting the spot while you’re away could raise red flags, especially if you’re not living there full-time, and this might be seen as fraudulent under residency rules.

Renting an Apartment:

Renting a small apartment would be your best and safest option to meet the residency requirements. While it might be slightly more expensive, having a proper fixed address will streamline your TIE application and avoid complications with immigration. Rural or inland areas might offer rentals around €600–€900 per month.

Using Someone’s Property as an Address:

While some expats have used this method, it can be risky and potentially lead to problems with authorities. If you’re not physically living there, it could be seen as fraudulent. I’d recommend going with a more straightforward approach, like renting an apartment.

RV Purchase:

Dealers & Payments:

Reputable dealers should have no problem selling an RV with a NIE and receiving full payment through services like WISE. Just make sure to confirm with the dealer that they will handle taxes and registration. It's a standard service in Spain, but worth double-checking before you complete the purchase.

Driving License:

Yes, with a Class B license and as long as the RV is under 3,500kg, you’re good to drive it in Spain. Your US license should be valid for six months after entering Spain, but you’ll need to exchange it for a Spanish license if you plan to stay longer.

RV Insurance & Registration:

Don’t forget to secure insurance for your RV. Also, the dealer should arrange the ITV inspection if the RV is used, and handle registration as part of the sale.

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Best regards,

Kyle Alford

Alford

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