How to apply for a visa in Spain

1. Determine whether you need a visa

• Schengen visa–exempt nationals (e.g., US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan):
  • No visa required for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period (tourism, business, family visits).
• Visa-required nationals:
  • You must apply before traveling.

2. Identify the correct visa type

Short-stay (Schengen) visa – Type C

For stays up to 90 days:

• Tourism
• Business
• Visiting family/friends
• Short courses or conferences

Long-stay visa – Type D

For stays over 90 days:

• Work
• Study
• Family reunification
• Non-lucrative residence (living in Spain without working)
• Digital nomad / highly qualified professional (specific requirements)

3. Where to apply

You must apply from your country of legal residence, through:

• The Spanish Consulate or Embassy, or
• An authorized visa center (e.g., BLS International), if applicable

You cannot apply from within Spain for most initial visas.

4. Book an appointment

• Appointments are booked online via the consulate or visa center website.
• For long-stay visas, appointments can be limited—book early.

5. Prepare required documents

Exact requirements vary by visa type, but typically include:

For short-stay visas

• Completed visa application form
• Valid passport (issued within last 10 years, valid 3+ months after return)
• Passport photos
• Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
• Proof of financial means
• Flight reservation
• Visa fee

For long-stay visas

• National visa application form
• Passport + copies
• Criminal background check (apostilled/legalized)
• Medical certificate
• Proof of purpose (work contract, university admission, etc.)
• Proof of financial means
• Health insurance (Spanish-compliant)
• Visa fee

6. Attend your appointment

• Submit documents in person
• Provide biometrics (fingerprints)
• Answer questions about your trip or plans

7. Wait for processing

• Short-stay visas: usually 15–45 days
• Long-stay visas: typically 1–3 months (sometimes longer)

8. After approval

• Collect your passport with the visa
• For long-stay visas:
  • Enter Spain within the visa validity
  • Apply for a TIE (residence card) within 30 days of arrival

Important notes

• Spain follows Schengen rules, but long-stay visas are national.
• Documents not in Spanish may need official translation.
• Requirements are strict; incomplete applications are often rejected.