How do you prove..?

Question

that you have means of subsistence to get a VISA? Also, what if you run out of money while you are in another country? Should me/my partner start saving USD now so we are assured that we have enough to live on in Schengen in a couple of years?

Answer 1

If you want to travel or live abroad for a longer time, it does never hurt to have money in the bank.

You do prove how much money you have by showing a recent bank statement, and if you earn money in the USA while abroad, like getting a pension or royalties, they either show in your bank statements, and bring (copies of) several in that case, or you have a statement that shows what you earn.

These rules and regulations are made to prevent you running out of money, but if it does happen you normally take the first plane home.
(Although it is not unheard of that people work illegally to earn enough to keep traveling.)

Before you come over, check with the site of the embassy of the country you want to go to what you need, (often they quote an amount you need to have or get paid at home) and what paperwork you need to proof it.