Are you ready to embark on a journey to the vibrant streets of Spain? Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the historic landmarks of Madrid, soaking up the sun on the beaches of Barcelona, or indulging in mouthwatering tapas in Seville, a Spain Schengen visa is your key to unlocking unforgettable experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about applying for your Spain Schengen visa, from start to finish.
Good news for Kosovo passport holders! You can now travel to the Schengen area without a visa for up to 90 days in a 180 days period as confirmed by the European Union in January 2024.
What is a Schengen visa?
Think of the Schengen visa as your access pass to explore all 27 European countries without having multiple visas. It allows you to travel freely within the Schengen area without border checks.
Who needs a Schengen visa to enter Spain?
Citizens of the country who does not have an agreement with the European union for the visa-free wavier need a Schengen visa. Not sure if you need a Schengen visa or an ETIAS? Then take this simple assessment. ETIAS is basically a visa-free entry to the Schengen area.
Do green card holders require a Spain Schengen visa ?
Good news for the green card holders, if you planning for a short-term stay which is 90 days in a 180 day period you do not require a visa to enter Spain.
What are the documents required for a Spain Schengen visa?
Documents required may vary based on the type of visa, however following are the commonly required documents. You will get a list of required documents in every country’s consulate or embassy website based on the type of visa.
- Passport which is issued in last 10 years valid at least 3 months after returning to your country and it should have 2 blank pages .
- Visa application form accurately filled and signed by applicants.
- Passport size photos as per Schengen photo requirement.
- Cover letter for a Schengen visa with a brief on the purpose of visa, travel dates, information about accompanying persons, and any special requests or circumstances.
- Flight itinerary for a visa with round trip flight details such as booking ID, applicant name, flight number, and destination.
- Proof of accommodation could be a dummy hotel reservation. If you’re staying with friends or family, then get a Invitation letter from the host .
- Financial sustenance proof to ensure you have enough money during the trip. This can be justified by providing the last 3 months’ bank statements. If your trip is sponsored, then get a Sponsorship letter. In general, you must have at least EUR 80 per day per person (after booking your flight & hotels)
- Travel medical insurance covering minimum of 30.000€ including repatriation. This must be valid in all Schengen areas throughout the trip.
- Proof of employment which differentiates employees, self employed, students, or retired person.
- Employees can submit a Leave approval letter for the visa from their employers, pay slips, and recent ITR.
- Self-employed may issue the last 3 bank statements, Recent ITR , and Proof of business/income license or incorporation certificate
- Students can submit their school or college ID along with a no-objection certificate from the college stating that the leave is approved.
- A Retired person can show pension credited bank statements.
- If someone is sponsoring your trip, ensure they issue a sponsorship letter.
- Proof of residence
- Minor documents include a birth certificate of a child, application letter signed by both parents, and notarized letter if the child is travelling alone.
Know more detailed breakdown of Schengen visa documents.
When can you apply for a visa in Spanish consulate or embassy in your country?
Apply for your visa in Spanish consulate or embassy ,
- If Spain is your main destination.
- If visiting multiple Schengen countries then your longest stay must be in Spain.
- If spending equal days in multiple countries, your entry must be through Spain.
How to apply for a Spain Schengen visa?
- Identify the Spanish consulate, embassy or visa application centers in your country such as BLS International , VFS Global, TLS contact etc.
- Download , fill out and sign the application form accurately.
- Schedule an appointment by phone or email as mentioned in the website.
- Gather the required documents.
- Attend the interview (Pro tip-Arrive early and dress smartly, first impressions count).
- Provide biometric data.
- Pay the visa fees.
- Wait for visa processing.
How long does it take to get a Schengen visa?
Patience is the key when it comes to visa processing, and the duration may vary based on the embassy / consulate you are applying in. Generally, within 15 days you get the visa .But apply well in advance especially if its the peak season for the tourism.
How much does a Spain visa cost?
Visa service centers may impose a service fee when collecting applications on behalf of Consulates. Visa fees is applicable to change without notice , hence always confirm from the official websites.
- For adults, the fee is 80€.
- Children aged 6-12 are charged 40€.
- Applicants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Belarus pay a fee of 35€.
- Cabo Verde applicants are charged 60€.
How to extend a Schengen visa in Spain?
To be honest you cannot just extend your Schengen visa, unless there is a exceptional circumstances such as force majeure or humanitarian reasons which requires a strong justification. You can visit the nearest Foreigners’ Office or Police Station that handles immigration matters. They will further guide yo through the process.
Can I travel to other Schengen countries with a Spain visa?
Absolutely! With a valid Schengen Spain visa you can enter other Schengen countries within the visa duration.
What are the different Spain Schengen visas?
- Spain Transit Visa : Planning a layover in Spain? Ensure a smooth journey with a transit visa.
- Spain Tourist Visa : Ready for your Spain adventure? Then you can get a tourist visa for a maximum period of 90 days.
- Spain Visitor visa : Visiting friends or family in Spain? Opt for a visitor visa to make unforgettable memories.
- Spain Business visa : Engaging in business activities? Secure a business visa for meetings, trade fairs, and more.
- Spain Diplomat visa : Official visit on the agenda? The diplomat visa has you covered for national delegations and government officials.
- Spain Medical visa : Seeking medical treatment? The medical visa ensures access to healthcare services in Spain.
- Spain Student Visa : Pursuing studies in Spain? Obtain a student visa and embark on your academic journey.
- Spain visa for Sports, Film Crew : Attending sports events or filming in Spain? This visa is tailored for athletes and film crews.
- Spain Spouse Visa : Joining your partner in Spain? The spouse visa facilitates your reunion with loved ones.
What is a Spain digital nomad visa?
Ever dreamed of swapping your office in a sun kissed beach? Well now you can turn it into reality with the help of special visa program introduced by the Spanish government which attract remote workers, freelancers, and digital nomads who can legally live and work in Spain.
