Visa for Spain

How to Apply for a Visa to Spain

Spain is a top destination for tourism, study, and work. It’s part of the Schengen Area, so short stays usually require a Schengen visa (unless you’re from a visa-exempt country). If you’re planning to study, work, or live in Spain long-term, you’ll need a national long-stay visa (Tipo D) and possibly a residence permit after arrival.

This guide explains who needs a visa, the main visa types, and the step-by-step process.

visa for spain

1. Do You Need a Visa?

  • Visa-free entry:
    Citizens of the EU/EEA, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea and many others can enter Spain visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism, short business trips, or family visits.
  • Visa required:
    Nationals of countries such as India, China, Russia, Turkey, South Africa, Nigeria and most of Africa and Asia must apply for a Schengen visa before travelling.
  • Long-term stays:
    Even visa-exempt travellers need a visa if staying longer than 90 days for study, work, or residence.

✅ Check Spain’s official visa portal: https://www.exteriores.gob.es or your nearest Spanish consulate’s website.

2. Main Visa Types

Visa TypePurposeValidity
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)Tourism, business, family visitsUp to 90 days in a 180-day period
National Long-Stay Visa (Tipo D)Work, study, family reunification, residenceMore than 90 days, usually 1 year renewable
Student VisaStudy programs over 90 daysDuration of course
Work Visa / EU Blue CardEmployment in Spain1–2 years renewable
Non-Lucrative Residence VisaRetire or live in Spain without working1 year renewable
Digital Nomad VisaRemote work for foreign employersUp to 5 years
Transit Visa (Airport)Passing through Spain24–48 hours

3. Applying for a Schengen Visa (Tourism/Short Visits)

Step 1 — Determine Where to Apply

  • Apply through the Spanish Embassy/Consulate or its authorised visa centre (e.g., BLS International) in your country of residence.
  • If travelling to multiple Schengen countries, apply where you’ll spend the most time or, if equal, where you’ll enter first.

Step 2 — Book an Appointment

  • Check the Spanish consulate or BLS International website.
  • Appointments can book out weeks in advance, especially before summer.

Step 3 — Prepare Required Documents

Commonly required:

  • Visa application form (download from consulate or BLS)
  • Passport valid 3 months beyond your planned departure, issued within last 10 years
  • Two recent biometric passport photos (35×45 mm)
  • Travel itinerary (flights, hotel bookings)
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel reservations or invitation letter)
  • Travel medical insurance covering €30,000 for all Schengen states
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements, payslips, sponsorship letter)
  • Visa fee (currently €80 adults; €40 children 6–12)

💡 If visiting friends/family, you may need an official invitation letter (Carta de Invitación) obtained by your host from a Spanish police station.

Step 4 — Submit Application & Biometrics

  • Attend your appointment in person.
  • Provide fingerprints and a digital photo (stored for 5 years in the EU VIS system).

Step 5 — Pay the Visa Fee

  • €80 for adults, €40 for children 6–12, free for under 6.
  • BLS or other centres may charge a small service fee.

Step 6 — Wait for Processing

  • Standard time: 15 calendar days, but up to 45 days if extra checks are needed.

Step 7 — Collect Your Visa

  • Check the visa sticker: validity dates, number of entries (single/multiple), and permitted stay.

4. Applying for a Long-Stay (National Type D) Visa

If you’re staying in Spain for work, study, or residence:

  1. Secure Authorization First
    • Work: Your Spanish employer must request a work authorization (autorización de residencia y trabajo) before you apply.
    • Study: Provide your university/school acceptance letter and proof of funds/accommodation.
    • Non-lucrative residence: Show you have sufficient savings/income (usually €27,000+ for a year).
  2. Apply at the Spanish Consulate in your home country with all required forms and supporting documents.
  3. After Arrival in Spain:
    • Apply for a Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within 30 days of entering Spain.
    • Register your address with the local town hall (empadronamiento).

5. Visa Fees (2025)

Visa TypeFee
Schengen short-stay (C)€80 adults / €40 children 6–12
Long-stay (D)~€80–€160 (varies by category & nationality)
Transit visa€80

Fees are non-refundable even if the visa is denied.

6. Tips for a Smooth Application

  • Apply early: Up to 6 months before travel (recommended at least 4 weeks ahead).
  • Insurance is mandatory: Must cover €30,000 across all Schengen states.
  • Show strong ties: Employment, property, or family connections help prevent refusal.
  • Check language: Documents not in Spanish or English often need official translation/legalisation.
  • Digital Nomad visa: Spain introduced this in 2023 — perfect for remote workers with foreign employers.

Quick Pre-Travel Checklist

  • Passport valid 3+ months beyond return, 2 blank pages
  • Completed visa form & biometric photos
  • Flight & accommodation reservations
  • Travel insurance €30,000 minimum
  • Proof of funds & employment/study letters
  • Appointment booked with consulate/BLS