Spain Visa
The Spanish visa allows foreigners to visit, work or live in Spain. If you wish to apply for a Spanish visa, you can do so through your nearest Spanish embassy or consulate.
Spanish visas vary in their eligibility requirements, and depending on the purpose of your trip and what passport you hold, you may not even need to apply for a visa. Call Total Law today on +44 (0) 333 305 9375 or get in touch online to discuss the best option for you.
Do You Need a Visa for Spain?
Spain is a very popular destination for many foreign nationals who wish to visit, work, or reside in Spain. The warm climate, beautiful scenery, historic cities and relaxed pace of life are attractive to visitors from around the world.
Whether or not you need to apply for a visa to travel to Spain depends on the applicant’s passport and citizenship.
European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss Citizens
Passport holders from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland generally will not be required to apply for a visa in order to live, study, or work in Spain.
If you spend time exceeding 3 months in Spain, you will be required to register yourself with the Register for Citizens of the Union. This can be done at a relevant police station or Central Register of Foreigners.
Family members of a citizen of one of the countries listed above who are not passport holders of one of the nations themselves must apply for a residence permit or a visa for family members of a citizen of the Union.
Third-Country Nationals (Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens)
Citizens from any other nation that is not part of the EU or EEA will be required to apply for a National Visa in order to stay for any period exceeding 90 days within a 180 day period. This applies regardless of their reasons for travel.
If third-country nationals intend to work in Spain for less than 90 days, a visa application for a National visa will be required.
The National visa allows the visa holder to enter Spain and travel through or move around any Schengen State for up to 90 days, assuming they pass all entry requirements and border checks.
Page Contents
Spain Visa – Key Facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Visa type | Short-stay (Schengen) vs Long-stay (National) |
| Maximum stay (Short-stay) | Up to 90 days in any 180-day period. |
| Purpose (Short-stay) | Tourism, business, family visit, transit. |
| Purpose (Long-stay) | Study, work, residence, other national visa types. |
| Who needs to apply | Nationals of non-EU/EEA/Swiss states if staying more than 90 days (National visa) or for certain short-stays if not visa-exempt. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) |
| Passport validity requirements | Passport must be issued within the last 10 years, and expire at least 3 months after leaving Schengen area. (GOV.UK) |
| Travel rights with Long-stay visa | The national visa allows entry into Spain and movement around Schengen states for up to 90 days (if conditions met). |
| Key legal region | Spain is part of the Schengen Area — rules apply accordingly. |
Short-Term Schengen Visas in Spain
The Schengen visa, also known as the EU visa, is a type of tourist visa issued to foreign nationals of countries that do not comprise the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
A Schengen visa allows third-country nationals to visit the Schengen Area for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period for tourism, business, visiting friends and family, travel for medical treatment, training, volunteering, and other related activities. You will likely require a Schengen transit visa if you are travelling through but not entering Spain via airport or sea.
The Schengen visa is the most common tourist visa in Europe.
What is the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area is based in Europe and comprises 27 European nations. Also known as the Schengen zone, its purpose is to allow easy visa and passport-free travel across the zone’s borders to citizens of the specified counties.
Should I Get a Schengen Visa for Spain?
It is recommended that non-EU nationals apply for a Schengen Visa if:
- They are travelling to Spain or other Schengen area countries for tourism or business purposes
- They are travelling for a shorter period – 90 days or less
- They want to travel flexibly or visit multiple European countries during their trip.
Types of Schengen Visas
- Transit visa
- Tourist and visit visa
- Business visa
- Medical Treatment Visa
- Diplomatic Passport Holders visa
- Training visa
Our team at Total Law have deep knowledge and experience in Schengen visa processes and requirements. If you require advice or support with your Schengen visa application, you can contact us online today or call us on +44 (0) 333 305 9375.
Spain National Visa
The National Visa for Spain is a Long Stay Type ‘D’ visa and is generally acquired by foreign nationals who wish to stay in Spain for an extended period of time (above 3 months).
The National Visa is not like the Schengen visa. You will not be able to freely travel to other countries with a National visa as it only allows you to enter Spain.
This visa will allow you to stay and reside in Spain for an extended period of time – longer than 90 days in a 180 day period.
Comparison of Major Spain Visa Types
| Visa Type | Purpose / Typical Use | Stay Duration | Key Eligibility Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-stay (Schengen) | Tourism, business, family visits, transit | Up to 90 days in any 180-day period | Proof of funds, travel/medical insurance, valid passport, return/onward ticket. |
| Long-stay (National) | Work, study, residence over 90 days | More than 90 days (varies by visa subtype) | Admission letter (for students), employment contract (for work), sufficient means (for residence) |
| Work Visa (Employment) | Non-EU nationals working in Spain | As per contract / permit | Offer of employment, work permit, social security registration. |
| Self-Employment / Entrepreneur Visa | Starting business or freelance in Spain | Typically national visa duration | Business plan, economic viability, sufficient means. |
| Study Visa | Enrolment in educational/training programme in Spain | Duration of course + sometimes extension | Admission by educational institution, insurance, financial means. |
| Digital Nomad / Remote Work Visa | For remote workers / digital nomads residing in Spain | Up to 12 months (initially) with renewal possibility | Remote work contract, minimum income, not doing local employment. |
Spain Visa Types
There are many visa routes available for foreign nationals. The Spain visa type that you apply for depends on your personal circumstances and reasons for travelling to Spain.
Work Visa
Work visas for Spain are visas offered to those from non-EU countries who wish to earn a living in Spain.
There are two key type of Spain work visas:
- Employment visa with a fixed-term contract
- Self-employment work visa
Employment Visa With a Fixed-Term Contract
Citizens of non-EU countries can apply to work temporarily in Spain through a fixed-term contract employment visa. You must have a valid job offer from a Spanish employer that complies with the latest national employment restrictions in order to apply for this visa.
Job position availability may be restricted and will depend on La Situación Nacional de Empleo (Spain’s national employment situation).
Self-Employment Work Visa
Citizens of non-EU countries that wish to work as a freelancer or start a business in Spain can apply for a self-employment work visa.
You must submit a business plan to the Spanish Self-Employed Workers Association and wait for their approval before you can apply for this visa. You must then include your approval as part of the application process.
Digital Nomad Visa
A digital nomad is someone who earns their income fully remotely and online from the location of their choosing. Many countries are now offering visas specifically aimed at this demographic who wish to travel or stay abroad whilst working.
You will need to prove how you earn your living as a self-employed or employed person of an overseas business, and that you can support yourself financially during your time in Spain.
Digital nomad visa is generally valid for 1 year.
Non-Lucrative Visa
Non-Lucrative visas are offered to those who wish to spend extended periods of time in Spain without gaining any form of paid employment during their stay.
This visa has up to one year validity and can be renewed twice more, allowing you to stay in Spain for up to 3 years without engaging in any form of work. You will be required to prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
This is a common visa route for those who wish to retire in Spain.
Student Visa
Student visas for Spain are offered to those who wish to take a course at a Spanish educational institution. In general, the Spanish student visa is granted for up to a 1 year validity period.
If you are planning to take a 3 year undergraduate university course, you will most likely be required to update your visa on an annual basis.
You will be required to provide evidence that you have been accepted onto a course held and accredited by a legitimate Spanish educational institution, and show that you can support yourself in Spain financially during your studies.
Family Reunion Visa
If you are the spouse, child, or parent of a Spanish resident, you may qualify for the Family Reunification visa.
You must prove your relationship to the resident, such as submitting a marriage or birth certificate. You will need to submit all documents to immigration authorities in the area where your relative lives. You must prove that you have financial means to support yourself in Spain.
Golden Visa (Investor Visa)
Golden visas are offered to foreign nationals who wish to invest significant sums of money in Spain via real estate, business, deposits or entrepreneurial activities.
The terms of qualifying for a Golden Visa largely depend on which route you wish to take:
- Real estate investments must be worth at least €500,000
- Business investments must be work at least €1 million in Spanish companies or funds
- Bank deposits should be at least €1 million
- Entrepreneurial projects must create jobs, have a clear socio-economic impact, or contribute to scientific or technological innovation.
What Documents Do I Need to Apply for Spain Visa?
The documents required for a Spanish visa will vary depending on what type of visa you wish to apply for, whether you are applying on behalf of yourself or someone else, and your personal history (for example, if you have previously breached immigration law or have any criminal convictions).
In general, in order to apply for a visa for Spain, you will need to include the following:
- The relevant visa application form, completed in full without errors
- A valid passport-size photograph taken recently
- Your passport with at least 3 months validity on it before its expiration date
- Travel insurance
- Visa payment fee
- Flight reservations or relevant travel arrangements, if applicable
- Proof of accommodation during your trip, if applicable
- Documents proving purpose of travel, if applicable
- Documents proving proof of residence (such as residence permit cards, bank statements, utility bills), if applicable.
- Please note that your application will not automatically be accepted and that immigration officers reserve the right to request further information, documentation or to arrange an interview.
We understand that being able to obtain all valid and relevant documents for a visa application can be difficult, depending on your personal history or which passport you are applying with. It can be even more challenging to apply on behalf of someone else.
That is why Total Law is here. We have a team of immigration lawyers with global expertise who can support you with your specific concerns and challenges. Contact us online today or call us on +44 (0) 333 305 9375.
How Do I Apply for a Spanish Visa?
The steps you need to take to apply for a Spain visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for, and whether or not you have all the relevant documentation and meet all the eligibility requirements.
As of September 2024, the easiest way to apply for a visa for Spain is to make an appointment with your closest Spanish Embassy or Consulate.
You must ensure your application is fully completed and that every relevant item included is submitted. You will likely need to leave your passport with the consulate, so make sure you do not plan any travel during the waiting period for approval.
Please note that applying via the Spanish consulate may include significant travel for some applicants and should be factored in as part of the costs for applying to travel to Spain. Contact Total Law today for more information on where to go to submit your visa application.
Spain Visa Application: Step-by-Step
| Step | What you must do | Typical Timing / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Determine visa type and gather required documents. | Can be done up to 6 months in advance in some cases. |
| 2 | Book appointment at the relevant Spanish embassy/consulate or visa application centre. | Availability depends on country; early booking advisable. |
| 3 | Attend appointment, submit application, biometrics (where required). | Delays may occur; late arrival may risk rejection. |
| 4 | Wait for decision / visa issuance. | Processing times vary by visa type and embassy. |
| 5 | Travel to Spain (if granted) and in some cases register with immigration authorities (for long-stay). | For long-stay student visas, e.g., must apply for foreigner card within 1 month of arrival. |
How Long Until My Spain Visa is Approved?
Once you have submitted your application, you will then need to wait for your visa application to be processed. In general, this takes approximately 2-3 weeks, though please note it may take longer during peak periods, or if your personal circumstances are more complex.
Once a decision has been made regarding your application, the consulate will notify you via telephone, text or email.
Whether your visa has been approved or rejected, you will need to return to the consulate to collect your documents and visa.
If your visa has been rejected due to insufficient or confusing evidence, or you feel it was rejected on unfair grounds, we recommend that you seek legal advice. You can contact Total law on +44 (0) 333 305 9375 or chat to us online.
How Much is a Visa for Spain?
Spain visa fees can vary considerably depending on which country you are from, your age, and which type of visa you are applying for.
National visa costs vary depending on which country you are from. Golden visas require significant six to seven figure sums of investment, as well as a visa processing fee.
Schengen visa types (type ‘C’ visas) are more consistent in pricing, and you can generally expect to pay the following:
- Adults aged 18 and above – approximately €90
- Minors aged 12 and above – Adults aged 18 and above – approximately €90
- Minors aged 6-11 years old – approximately €45
- Minors under age 6 are usually not required to pay a visa processing fee.
How Total Law Can Help
Choosing which visa is right for you can be a difficult process, particularly if you have more complex or unique personal or family circumstances.
Some of our customers simply seek advice to understand which visa is the best option for them because they qualify for more than one, or they have long-term plans to live in Spain and may have to change visas over the course of that time. Other customers come to us with more complex immigration challenges, such as being unable to access or provide certain documentation or having a previous criminal conviction.
Total Law is here to support you. Our team of experienced Spanish immigration lawyers handle applications, refusals, and offer advice on any immigration-related queries you have about travelling to Spain.
Contact us today online, or call us on +44 (0) 333 305 9375.
Advice Package
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Designed to make your visa application as smooth and stress-free as possible.
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Premium application service that ensures your visa application is submitted to meet your deadline.
Appeal Package
Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal. We will represent you in any case.
The Advice Package
During this untimed Advice Session with our professional immigration lawyers in London, you will receive our comprehensive advice, completely tailored to your needs and your situation.
The Application Package
With our Application Package, your dedicated immigration lawyer will advise you on your application process and eligibility. Your caseworker will then complete and submit your forms to the Home Office on your behalf.
The Fast Track Package
Our Fast-Track Application Package is a premium service for those who need to submit their application in time with their deadlines. Your case will become a top priority for our lawyers and you will benefit from our highest-quality services.
The Appeal Package
By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.
Related pages for your continued reading.
FAQs
If you are a passport holder of any country outside of the European Union/Schengen zone, European Economic Area, or Switzerland, you will be required to apply for a visa to travel to, through, or stay in Spain.
Generally, the Spain visa application process will be processed within a 1 month period. However, this can vary according to which visa you apply for, when you apply (if you apply during a particularly busy period), and whether your application requires further documents, an interview, or clarification by immigration officials.
We recommend you do not plan any travel to Spain until your visa has been approved.
If you have applied for a visa for Spain but it has been rejected, the reasons for the rejection should be outlined in the rejection letter you receive from the Spanish immigration officials.
Sometimes, visa rejections are fairly simple – perhaps you forgot to submit a document or fill in a particular section of your application. If this is the case, you can amend your application and make a new application. Please note you will need to pay the same visa fee again.
If you feel your visa has been rejected on unfair grounds, you may have good reason to file a rebuttal lawsuit. If this is your intention, you will need legal representation. We recommend you contact Total Law to discuss your situation and we can guide you through the next steps.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Total Law before making any decisions based on the content provided.