Americans

If you do get stuck Marco and need Professional help David Ruiz - Moving to Spain from USA could be your man.

I assume you've got a Schengen visa. If so, the extension procedure is detailed here:

http://www.interior.gob.es/en/web/servicios-al-ciudadano/extranjeria/regimen-general/estancia

Thanks.....I’ll give him a try

Hi Marco,

Welcome to Spain.  😊

We are based near Alicante City.  We’re from Ireland but spent several years living in the US.    Through the Alicante branch of a forum called Internations.org we’ve met people from several countries including North America.  

In addition to the helpful advise on this forum, have a look at https://www.internations.org/alicante-expats and perhaps you may find some contacts there who may be able to help.  

Best Wishes

Maria

There is no easy way to extend a Schengen visa. Article 33 of the Schengen Visa code only allows an extension if you cannot leave the Schengen area (force majeure) or you can provide “proof of serious personal reasons”. Otherwise you have to apply for another visa and you can only do that from your place of residence.

If you have an actual residencia it is initially granted for a year.  It is a process that usually takes months as many documents are reqired.  If you have an actual reisidencia you should begin the renewal process months ahead of time so you can make sure you have all docs required on the list.

I highly recommend using David Ruiz for all of your needs when it comes to this sorty of thing.  David has helped guide me through the process.

Thanks

the Schegen visa has different rules than the long term residencia visa issued at the consulate. You get 90 days the apply for extension to 1 year then apply for 2 more then 2 more then permanent. I have to go to Alicante for extensions. 

The appointments for Alicante are available on a website that I haven’t been able to decipher. I guess I’m going to Alicante one morning and make an appointment for a future trip to Alicante. It’s a chore to go there plus taxi fare each way. 

Sorry Marco - I misunderstood. I was thrown by you stating visa, whereas I now assume you're talking about extending the period of validity of a residencia card - TIE.

For the appointment, go to:

https://sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es/icpplus/

Click the drop-down and select Alicante, then Aceptar.

On the next page, in the drop-down list, select POLICIA-TOMA DE HUELLAS..., then Aceptar.

The next page tells you the documents required - make a note and then click Entrar.

After that it's easy.

It says I need proof of appointment.....I’ve been trying for 2 weeks with David Ruiz’ help.  He says there no appointments available.