Navigating Spain VISA Portal and Policies with Travel Guidelines
Spain, as a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, follows standardized visa policies for non-EU citizens. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about Spain’s visa regulations, requirements, and current fee structure for all visa categories.
Important Note: Spain is part of the Schengen Area, which allows free movement between 26 European countries. A Schengen visa issued by Spain permits travel throughout the entire Schengen Zone.
The Spanish visa system categorizes visas based on purpose of travel, duration of stay, and applicant circumstances. Understanding the correct visa category is essential for a successful application.
Types of Spain Visas
Spain offers various visa categories depending on the purpose and duration of your visit. Select the appropriate visa type based on your travel intentions:
Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)
For visits up to 90 days within any 180-day period
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Business meetings
- Visiting family/friends
- Cultural/sports events
- Short-term studies
Long-Stay National Visa (Type D)
For stays exceeding 90 days
- Work and employment
- Long-term studies
- Family reunification
- Research activities
- Retirement residence
Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
For transiting through international zones of Spanish airports
- Required for certain nationalities
- Does not permit entry into Spain
- Valid only for airport transit
General Visa Requirements
While specific requirements vary by visa type, all Spain visa applications typically need the following documents:
Completed Application Form
A fully completed and signed visa application form. The form must be filled out accurately with no blank sections. Digital forms are available on official Spanish consulate websites.
Valid Passport
Your passport must:
- Be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay
- Have at least two blank pages
- Not be older than 10 years
- Include copies of previous visas (if applicable)
Recent Photographs
Two identical color photographs meeting Schengen requirements:
- Size: 35x45mm
- Recent (taken within last 6 months)
- Light background (white or off-white)
- Neutral facial expression with both eyes open
- No headwear except for religious purposes
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel medical insurance that:
- Covers the entire Schengen Area
- Has minimum coverage of €30,000
- Covers emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation
- Is valid for the entire duration of your stay
Proof of Accommodation
Documentation showing where you will stay during your visit:
- Hotel reservations with complete details
- Invitation letter from host with copy of their ID/residence permit
- Rental agreement
- For multiple destinations: complete itinerary with accommodation details
Proof of Financial Means
Evidence that you can support yourself financially during your stay:
- Bank statements for the last 3-6 months
- Sponsorship letter if being sponsored
- Proof of employment and salary
- Minimum required: approx. €65-100 per day depending on accommodation arrangements
Note: Additional documents may be required based on your specific visa category, such as invitation letters for business visas, enrollment certificates for student visas, or employment contracts for work visas.
Spain Visa Fee Structure
Visa fees are standardized across Schengen countries but may vary based on applicant age, nationality, and visa type. All fees are non-refundable, even if the application is rejected.
Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) Fees
| Applicant Category | Fee in EUR | Fee in USD (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults (12 years and older) | €80 | $85 | Standard application fee |
| Children (6-11 years) | €40 | $43 | 50% reduction for minors |
| Children under 6 years | FREE | FREE | No fee applicable |
| EU Family Members | FREE | FREE | With valid documentation proving relationship |
| Students/Researchers | €80 | $85 | Reduced or waived in specific educational exchange programs |
Long-Stay National Visa (Type D) Fees
| Visa Category | Fee in EUR | Fee in USD (Approx.) | Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Visa | €60 | $64 | Up to 1 year (renewable) |
| Work Visa | €190 | $202 | 1-2 years (depending on contract) |
| Family Reunification | €80 | $85 | Initially 1 year |
| Residence without Lucrative Activity | €80 | $85 | 1 year (renewable) |
| Entrepreneur/Investor Visa | €240 | $255 | 2 years initially |
Payment Information: Visa fees must be paid in the local currency equivalent at the current exchange rate. Payment methods vary by consulate but typically include cash, bank transfer, or credit/debit cards. Some visa application centers may charge additional service fees.
Countries with Visa Fee Facilitation Agreements
Applicants from these countries pay a reduced visa fee of €35:
- Albania
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Georgia
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Russia
- Serbia
- Ukraine
Visa Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for a Spain visa:
Step 1: Determine Jurisdiction
Identify which Spanish consulate has jurisdiction over your place of residence. Applications must be submitted to the consulate responsible for your area.
Step 2: Complete Application
Fill out the visa application form accurately. Download the latest version from the official consulate website to ensure you have the current form.
Step 3: Gather Documents
Collect all required documents based on your visa category. Ensure documents are recent, translated if necessary, and organized as per consulate requirements.
Step 4: Schedule Appointment
Book an appointment through the consulate’s online system. Appointment availability varies, so schedule well in advance of your planned travel date.
Step 5: Attend Appointment
Submit your application in person with all documents. Be prepared for possible interview questions about your travel plans.
Step 6: Pay Fees & Biometrics
Pay the applicable visa fee and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) if required.
Step 7: Processing & Decision
Standard processing is 15 calendar days but can extend to 45 days in certain cases. You may be contacted for additional information.
Schengen Visa: 15 calendar days (may extend to 45 days in complex cases)
National Long-stay Visa: 30-60 days (depending on type and season)
Student Visa: 30-45 days (peak periods may take longer)
Step 8: Collect Passport
Once processed, collect your passport with the visa sticker or refusal letter. Some consulates offer courier return services.
Travel Policies & Entry Requirements
Understanding Spain’s entry requirements and travel policies ensures a smooth journey and stay.
COVID-19 Travel Policies
As of 2024, Spain has lifted most COVID-19 related travel restrictions. However, travelers should check the latest updates before departure.
Standard Entry Requirements
- Valid Visa: If required by nationality (check visa exemption list)
- Passport Validity: At least 3 months beyond intended departure date
- Proof of Purpose: Documentation supporting reason for visit
- Financial Sufficiency: Bank statements or sponsorship letters
- Health Insurance: Mandatory for visa applicants
Border Control Procedures
Upon arrival in Spain, non-EU travelers can expect:
- Passport and visa inspection by Spanish border police
- Possible questions about travel purpose and duration
- Request to show proof of accommodation and return ticket
- Biometric data collection (photograph and fingerprints) for first-time Schengen visa holders
Travel Advisory: Even with a valid visa, entry into Spain is not guaranteed. Border officials have authority to deny entry if they suspect the visitor may overstay, lack sufficient funds, or pose a security risk.
Visa-Exempt Travelers
Citizens of certain countries (USA, Canada, Australia, etc.) can enter Spain without a visa for tourism or business for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. However, starting in 2025, these travelers will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) approval before travel.
Processing Times: Standard Schengen visa applications are typically processed within 15 calendar days. Long-stay national visas may take 1-3 months. During peak travel seasons or for complex cases, processing may take up to 45 days. Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Spain Visa FAQs
- Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C): Tourism, business, family visits (up to 90 days).
- Airport Transit Visa (Type A): Transit through Spanish airports.
- National Long-Stay Visa (Type D): Work, study, residence, family reunification.
- Book an appointment with the Spanish Embassy/Consulate or BLS International.
- Complete the Schengen visa application form.
- Prepare required documents.
- Submit biometrics and pay the visa fee.
- Wait for a decision.
- €80 – Adults
- €40 – Children (6–12 years)
- Free – Children under 6
- Valid passport (minimum 3 months validity after return)
- Recent passport photographs
- Completed Schengen application form
- Flight reservation
- Hotel booking or invitation letter
- Travel insurance (€30,000 coverage)
- Bank statements (last 3–6 months)
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days, which may extend to 30–45 days during peak seasons.
Yes. Travel medical insurance of at least €30,000 covering all Schengen states is mandatory.
You can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the Schengen Area.
Extensions are granted only in exceptional cases such as medical emergencies or humanitarian reasons.
Yes. Each child must have an individual Schengen visa unless exempt by nationality.
Yes. A valid Spain Schengen visa allows travel to all Schengen member states, provided Spain is your main destination or first entry point.