I made it! There is (some) light at the end of this tunnel! I certainly have not finished everything, but I have gotten to the point of signing my papers and now I wait. Wait for an approved or rejected application (let’s hope for approved…) and then I will send a few more documents, sign a few more things, swear allegiance to the Spanish King and Queen (……) and I’ll be a brand spankin’ new Spanish baby.
Anyway, thought I would share my notary experience for any of you out there who want to know what to expect. Of course, EVERY notary is different, but this is my experience.
Once you get to step 5 on the portal, it will allow you choose a notary. By “choose”, I mean that a new notary shows up on the portal each day, so you can select the one that is there or wait until the next day to choose.
Once you choose your notary, a notification (ha) is sent to the notary and it sends them all of your information and uploaded documents. The notary will put all of that information into one document, and then they will most likely get in contact with you via e-mail to set a date and come sign this document they have created. Basically, they are vouching for you that you meet the requirements to apply for nationality.
Some things to note:
- You will need to come to Spain to sign this document. It is the only time (apparently) that you need to travel to Spain. Use it as an opportunity to travel!
- You will be required to pay a 101 Euro tasa a.k.a a tax (see this post for more information) before signing the documents. BE SURE to bring one of the receipts with you to prove you paid.
- You will also be required to pay your notary for his/her work. This price depends on the notary, but expect a fee between 200 and 400 Euros. (Editted to add: I have been contacted by numerous people who have read this blog to say they have been charged MUCH more than what I wrote. Every notary is different and there is no set rate, so be aware of that)
Basically, you will get an appointment time. Go to your appointment and bring ALL OF YOUR DOCUMENTS (original copies), plus any other documents you think you could use- proof of Spanish classes, proof of connection to Spain, etc. And bring your tasa receipt and money to pay the notary. They will show you the document they prepared, review it with you, you check all of the information, then you sign it, and that’s it! Once you leave, they will “register it” and you should receive an e-mail that it has been done. It will look like this:
Then you wait.
And wait.
And wait.
And wait.
Up to a year.
And then you will be contacted to do a couple more things. When I get to that point, I will update you!
