tourist visa uk from spain

• 02084326004
• +447300463745
• [email protected]

Ultimate Guide To Spain Tourist Visa For UK Citizens

Spain has been a melting pot of tourism for many years, a popular country in southern Europe. Spain is one of the most popular destinations in the world. The country is known for its excellent beaches, rich culture, diverse cuisine and famous festivals such as the adrenaline-pumping Running of the Bulls event and the fun La Tomatina. If you plan to visit Spain as a tourist, you may need a Spanish visa. Whether you plan to visit Spain for a short time or stay in Spain for a longer time, in any case, you have to take a very important step, which is to understand what kind of visa you need. “Do I need a visa to enter Spain?” and “Do I need to apply for a Spanish tourist visa?” are the most frequent questions when travelling to Spain. In this blog, you will find all the relevant information about the Spain Schengen Visa UK . Get ready to visit this wonderful country in the European Union! If your trip to Spain does not include tourism-related activities, you must apply for a different type of visa. Let’s understand everything about Spain’s Tourist Visa in more detail.

What is a Spain Tourist Visa?

A Spanish permits you to travel to Spain for tourist activities such as holidays, sightseeing and learning about living in Spain. This short-term travel document allows you to travel to Spain and other Schengen countries for tourist purposes.

What documents do I need to apply for a Spain Schengen Tourist Visa in the UK?

You must submit several documents to process your Spain Visa Application. The following are the required Spanish Tourist Visa documents when applying for the  Schengen Tourist Visa in the UK.

Here is the list of Spain Tourist Visa documents that you must submit while applying for a Visa Application :

• A Valid Passport or a Travel document
• A Valid UK residency permit or another valid ID proof
• A digital Photograph & Biometric fingerprints
• A Passport-Sized Photograph
• Schengen Travel & Medical Insurance
• Proof of Accommodation
• Proof of a Financial Substance
• Proof of Travel arrangements

When Should I Apply For a Spainish Tourist Visa?

According to the Spanish Short Stay visa rules, the application can be submitted no earlier than six months before the planned trip to Spain.

How to apply for a Spanish tourist visa?

Applying for a Spain Schengen Visa from the UK can be quite confusing. However, to make things clear & easier, here are the steps to get your Spanish Tourist Visa in the UK:

Step 1: Fill in the Online BLS Spain visa application form

Step 2: We will book your Spain visa appointment with Visa Centre after filing the form

Step 3: Further, you need to visit he Visa Centre for Biometrics and Documentations

Step 4: Get your Tourist Visa & Passport via post

How Long Does It Take To Get a Tourist Visa For Spain?

It usually takes 10-15 working days to process a Spanish tourist visa in the UK so that you can stay there for 90 days, with a maximum of 180 days. However, if all the documents for the Spanish tourist visa are correctly presented, it can be reduced to less than ten days. Depending on the situation, the processing time can take longer if there is an extraordinary case.

Can I Travel to Other Schengen Countries with My Spain Tourist Visa?

You can travel to any other Schengen country with your Spain Tourist Visa during that time. In your application, you must clearly state your plan to travel to other Schengen countries.

You can Visit the following Schengen Member States with your Tourist Visa: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Spain, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Sweden and Switzerland.

What is the difference between a Single-Entry and a Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa?

A single-entry visa allows holders to enter a Schengen Area only once for a certain period. Once you leave the Schengen Area you entered, the visa validity expires, even if the period allowed to stay there is not over yet. In contrast, a Multiple-entry visa allows its holder to enter and exit the Schengen Area. If you’re still wondering whether Spain is a must-see destination, visit once, and you’ll want to stay here for a lifetime. To visit this beautiful country, apply for Spain Schengen Visa UK today.

To apply for a Spain Tourist Visa from the UK, you need to follow these simple steps: Complete the BLS Spain online visa application We will book your Spanish visa appointment at the Visa Application Centre after completing the form Additionally, you will need to visit a visa centre to obtain your biometrics and documents Get your Spanish tourist visa and passport via post

The essential requirements for a tourist visa to Spain for UK citizens are stated below: – A Valid Passport or a Travel document – A Valid UK residency permit or another valid ID proof – A digital Photograph & Biometric fingerprints – A Passport-Sized Photograph – Schengen Travel & Medical Insurance – Proof of Accommodation – Proof of a Financial Substance – Proof of Travel arrangements

The usual processing time of a Spain tourist visa processing time for a UK citizen takes around 10-15 calendar days. However, submission of all the documents correctly can reduce the time to less than 10 days.

A Spain Tourist Visa allows an individual to stay in Spain for a maximum of 90 days over 180 days. This visa will also allow you to visit other Schengen countries during that time.

You can extend your Spain Tourist Visa only in exceptional cases or emergencies.

Although you can always re-apply for a Spain Visa after a few days of rejection, it may be better to appeal the initial decision within the given time from the date of rejection. You must arrange for the missing information that caused rejection and write an Appeal Letter.

Let's Connect

Visa Type 30 Days Tourist Visa 60 Days Tourist Visa

Este sitio web utiliza cookies propias y de terceros para su funcionamiento, mantener la sesión y personalizar la experiencia del usuario. Más información en nuestra política de Cookies

• Consular services

Schengen visas

General information  .

The Schengen area encompasses 26 European countries without border controls between them: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. 

The Schengen visa allows the holder to travel to any of the Schengen States and to transit through their territory, but it does not automatically entitle them to enter the Schengen area. The border authorities can refuse entry if the visa holder does not provide proof of the purpose and specifics of the trip, or if any of the other entry requirements are not met (please refer to the section “Conditions for entry into Spain").

Required documents  

2. Photograph. A recent, passport-size, colour photograph, taken against a light background, facing forward, without dark or reflective glasses, or any garments concealing the oval of the face. Photographs of minors must not show any part of the adult holding them.  

3. Valid, unexpired passport. Original and a photocopy of the page or pages of the passport that contain biometric data. The passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen territory. It must also contain at least two blank pages. Passports issued more than 10 years ago will not be accepted.  

4. Travel medical insurance. The insurance must cover the costs of repatriation for medical reasons or death, as well as for urgent healthcare and/or emergency hospital treatment for the entire stay and throughout the Schengen area. Coverage must be of at least €30,000 or its equivalent in local currency. If the application is for a multiple entry visa, the medical insurance must be valid for the first planned entry. The applicant must undertake to purchase insurance for future trips. 

6. Documents corroborating the purpose of travel and the specifics of the stay, that the visa applicant has sufficient financial means, as well as the intention of the visa applicant to leave the Schengen area before the visa expires.  

7. Proof of residence in the consular district.  To verify your consular district, please visit the relevant web section of the Consulate.

When necessary to assess the application, the Consular Office may request additional documents or data and may also ask the applicant to come in for a personal interview. 

Only those applications meeting the requirements specified in sections 1, 2, 3 and 5 will be accepted. 

Procedure​  

• Who can apply for a visa: Applications must be submitted in person. If the applicant is a minor, the application must be submitted by their legal representatives. 
• Visa application period: Visa applications must be submitted between 6 months and 15 days before the scheduled date of travel. Seafarers may apply for the visa up to 9 months before the date of travel. 
• Biometric data capturing: The applicant's facial image and fingerprints will be captured during the visa application procedure. Applicants under 12 and applicants whose fingerprints have been taken in the last 59 months are exempt from fingerprint taking. However, in the latter case, if the applicant's prints are of poor quality, the Consular Office will request that they come back in to have their fingerprints retaken. 
• Rectifying the application: The Consular Office may ask the applicant to submit any missing documents, or to provide additional documents or data that are necessary for a decision regarding the application. The applicant may also be called in for a personal interview. 
• Decision period: The legal period for reaching a decision is of 15 calendar days as of the day after the application submission date, but this period may be extended to 45 calendar days if an interview or additional documents are requested. Visa applications submitted by nationals of certain States require consultation with the central authorities that could affect the duration of the visa procedure. 
• Permission granted by the visa: A visa does ​​​not automatically entitle someone to enter the Schengen area. The traveller must meet all legal entry requirements (see section "Conditions for entry into Spain"). 
• Visa refusal: Visa refusals will always be notified in writing, setting forth the grounds on which the decision adopted was based. 
• Appeals:  

In accordance with current regulations, the appeal for reconsideration must be written in Spanish and must contain at least the following information:

- Identification data (name and surnames and personal identification) of the appellant.

- Resolution appealed.

- Reason for the challenge.

- Place, date and signature of the appellant, and means of contact.

- Body, center or administrative unit to which it is directed.

- Other particularities required, where appropriate, by the specific provisions.

Each appeal must refer to a single administrative file.

The appeal for reconsideration may be filed personally by the interested party or by his legal representative (in this case, documentation proving said representation must be provided).

The maximum term for resolving the appeal is one month.

The place of registration of the appeal can be at the Consulate General of Spain in London (20 Draycott Place SW3 2RZ) from Monday to Thursday between 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

You are informed that the resources sent by email are not valid.

Data protection​ 

Persons wishing to exercise their rights of access, rectification and erasure of their personal data in the Visa Information System (VIS) may do so by addressing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the European Union and Cooperation: 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the European Union and Cooperation Inspección General de Servicios Postal address: Plaza de la Provincia, 1, Madrid, España Email: [email protected]​  

The following forms may be used to do so: 

Persons whose visa application has been refused because they are banned from entering the Schengen area may exercise their rights of access, rectification and erasure of their personal data in the Schengen Information System (SIS) by addressing the Ministry of the Interior.   

Basic legislation 

 Community Code on Visas 

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

• UK Visa Application in Spain

UK Visa Application Centre in Spain

Welcome to TLScontact UK in Spain . Please choose the Visa Application Centre where you would like to submit your application. This should be the same Visa Application Centre as your appointment.

By continuing to use this site you are agreeing to our website Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and the use of cookies.

Travel Safe

Information on Brexit for British tourists

How is tourism affected by the end of the transition period?

The following information answers the main questions that may arise on the topic.

Do I need a visa to travel to Spain from the United Kingdom?

No. As of 1 January 2021, UK nationals remain exempt from the requirement to have a visa when crossing the European Union's external borders for short-term stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period). This visa exemption does not provide for the right to work in the Union and is subject to the reciprocity mechanism applicable to third countries.

Will there be any border controls?

As of 1 January 2021, UK nationals travelling to the European Union and the Schengen area are treated as third-country nationals, and therefore subject to thorough checks at the Schengen area border. This means that intended stays in the territory of EU Member States cannot have a duration of more than 90 days in any 180-day period, and UK nationals will have to meet the entry conditions for third-country nationals.

What about travelling with pets?

You may continue to travel with your pets from 1 January 2021, though you will need the British health authorities to issue the corresponding animal health certificate, and you must also enter Spain at one of the airports or ports authorised to this effect. For dogs, cats and ferrets, a valid rabies vaccination certificate must be presented along with the animal health certificate. When returning to the United Kingdom, you will need to carry out the deworming treatment one to five days ahead of the trip. For more information, please see the page of the website of the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Will my British driving licence be recognised in Spain?

From 1 March 2022, driving licences issued by the UK authorities will be valid for driving in Spain for a period of six months. In the case of short trips or tourism, it will be six months running from the date you enter the country. For British citizens resident in Spain, this period runs from the date on which legal residence in the country was obtained. Once this six-month period has transpired, you will need to obtain a Spanish driving licence. British residents who did not apply for the exchange, renewal or extraordinary replacement of their driving licence before 31 December 2020 will have to apply for a new Spanish driving licence. For more information, please consult the on the website of the General Directorate of Traffic.

Will I have access to the Spanish healthcare system?

Yes, the social security coordination protocol of the Trade and Cooperation agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community, for one part, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, for the other, envisages this health cover with the UK European Health Insurance Card (UK EHIC) or the UK Global Health Insurance Card (UK GHIC). Contact the British institution to find out which document supporting your rights you are going to be issued with.

Travel plans for inspiring you

Practical information

Spain, an accessible destination for people with disabilities

10 reasons to choose Spain as a MICE destination

Ten tips for choosing your accommodation in Spain

APPLY FOR VISA TO SPAIN IN LONDON

Website disclaimer, very important information..

From Monday, 27 Nov 2023, All Spain Visa applications will be submitted at BLS International Visa Centre Offices, located at 20 St Andrew Street, London EC4A 3AG

All applicants with appointments will need to go the stated address.

VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

Can't visit the Visa Application Cerntre? Get your application submitted at your home on your convenient time

Book Now and get a call back in 1 business day

Useful Links

News & notification, important update.

visa applications for Schengen visas submitted less than 15 days in advance to the intended trip date are not accepted.

British passport holders who wish to apply for National residence visas / Long term visas needs to contact Spanish consulate.

A new regulation has been issued by the Spanish Ministry of Health, dealing with the health measures to be implemented and concerning the travellers arriving in Spain. In this regard, it is mandatory for prospective travellers to know about the following:

• All passengers arriving in Spain, may it by air or sea, will undergo a health check carried out by Spanish authorities before entering the country. These controls may include a temperature check as well as a documentary and a visual assessment of passengers’ condition.
• Before initiating the travel to Spain all passengers originating from any airport or port must complete a public health form. It can be done online at www.spth.gob.es or through the free application: SPAIN TRAVEL HEALTH-sp TH. Once the form is filled-in, the person concerned will receive a QR code, which you will have to show upon arrival in Spain.
• A transitional period is established, until July 31 , 2020, in which international passengers who have not been able to complete the public health form electronically may fill it and present it upon arrival in Spain in paper format.

PLEASE BE GUIDED ACCORDINGLY & ALWAYS STAY SAFE.

Importance Notice As of 2nd February’ 2020 The deadline for submitting a visa application is extended to 6 months instead of 3 months. In case of Seafarers they may be presented with a maximum advance of 9 months. Visa application form has been changed. Visa Fee increases from February 2nd Above 12 years : 80 Euros 6 to 11 years: 40 Euros Children under 6 years: Free of charge

• We have updated our Privacy Policy. Click here to read more.

Spain Tourist Attractions

Track Your Application Online

Important Information

All Schengen Countries Visa

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

Netherlands

Switzerland

Home / Blog / Spain visa / How to get Spanish visa appointment From UK

How to get Spanish visa appointment From UK

• February 1, 2024

Getting an appointment for a Spain tourist visa is an essential step if you are planning to travel there from the UK. In order to visit Spain, whether for business, holidays or for any other reason, you must know how to How to get a Spanish visa appointment . We will walk you through every step of the procedure in this guide, which also includes information on fast Schengen visa process for Spain, documents required, processing time, validity period and how to ensure a trouble-free trip.

STEP 1. Identify the right visa type

Choosing the appropriate visa type according to the purpose of your trip is the first step in obtaining a Spain visa appointment from UK . For the majority of the visitors, short-term tourist visa is the most suitable option. Make sure you choose the appropriate visa category from the different options according to the reason like business or other specific purposes. According to the length and purpose of your trip below mentioned are the 3 main types of visas available:

• Spain Tourist Visa – This is a short-term visa which remains valid for 90 days.
• Spain Business Visa – Anyone willing to travel for business related activities must apply for this visa.
• Long Stay National Visa – Long stay Spain visa lets you stay in the country for more than a year. Usually, British people apply for this visa as for three month stay they do not need any visa.

STEP 2. Gather the Necessary Documents

Before booking an appointment there are a few Spanish Schengen visa requirements for the UK residents that you must satisfy. The main documents are as follows:

• Passport – A passport valid for three months after leaving Spain and with blank pages for the stamping of visa. It must have been issued no more than ten years ago.
• Residency Permit – It should have been issued in the UK and must be valid for at least 3 months after you come back to UK from Spain.
• Photo – Two similar passport-size photos that meet the requirements for the Spain visa.
• Travel Insurance – Medical insurance accepted by Spain that must provide at least EUR 30,000 in emergency medical care and repatriation coverage.
• Hotel Booking –Include your entire travel schedule and accommodation details during your Spain trip.
• Flight Booking – Reservation confirmation for your round-trip flight. If in case you are planning to go by bus or train you will need to provide a few additional information such as vehicle registration and insurance or bus/train ticket.
• Bank Statement – A letter from your bank that includes the current amount in your account, recent activities & the bank statement.
• Cover letter – In this letter you must include all the trip related information, your financial status & anything else that would be related to your Spain visa Manchester, London or Edinburgh application.

STEP 3. Book Spain Visa Appointment

If you plan to go for a holiday in Spain anytime soon, you should definitely start preparing early. Securing necessary travel documents including Spain visa appointment is important in ensuring magnificent and worry-free holidays. Here is convenient and guided process for your ease:

• Fill the online Spain visa form with all your details and complete the online payment to proceed further with reserving your express appointment slot at BLS visa centre.
• Provide your preferred date and time of appointment and share your documents with the experts for review.
• Go to the visa centre with all your documents and submit your fingerprints and digital photo for verification.
• Pay the BLS visa fee using your card during the appointment for further visa processing. You will receive your passport & visa in few days via courier.

Now as you know How to apply for a Spanish Visa and appointment let’s take a look at some other important things that might be helpful in making your trip smooth.

Spanish Visa Processing Time in the UK

The processing time for Spain visa in the UK varies depending on the country you belong to and type of visa you wish to apply. In general short stay visa processing time is around 7-8 working days and long stay Spain visa takes approximately 8-15 days. It can take more than 15 days for some nationalities. So keep the processing time in mind and make your plans accordingly.

Validity of Spain Visa

The validity of your Spain visa depends on a number of criteria such as whether this is your first application or whether you have previously obtained several Schengen visas. Spain usually grants visa for up to three months to two years or even longer. However, the longest stay permitted to anyone in a single visit is 90 days.

Who Needs a Visa to Travel to Spain From UK?

Anyone living in the UK and does not hold the British passport needs a visa to travel to Spain. On the other hand citizens of the UK do not need this visa. So you if you hold a valid residency permit all you need to do is get in touch with the experienced Spain visa Edinburg , London or Manchester agents and apply for your visa in order to make your journey stress-free and smooth. Applying for appointment yourself is a little difficult as slot are generally not available due to high number of people traveling to Spain. It is therefore better to apply for your visa through professionals.

Request a Call Back

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Spain holiday warning: Foreign Office warns UK holidaymakers they need 'two extra documents' to visit the country

UK tourists have been issued with a Spanish travel warning as two key documents are needed to enter the country

UK tourists have been issued a Spain travel warning as two key documents are needed to enter the country. Tourists will need to carry two bits of documentation with them if they're heading abroad to Spain on holiday. 

Since Brexit, the rules for Brits travelling to countries in the Schengen area have changed. Now those coming from outside the zone, including the UK, may face extra checks at the border.

The warning comes from the Foreign Office, urging Brits to make sure they have “additional documents” on hand. Travellers might also need to show proof of where they're staying, like a hotel booking receipt or an address if they're visiting a second home or friends or family.

The UK Foreign Office stated: "If you enter the Schengen area as a tourist, you may need to provide additional documents at the border. As well as a valid return or onward ticket, when travelling to Spain you could be asked to show you have enough money for your stay; proof of accommodation for your stay, for example a hotel booking confirmation, proof of address if visiting your own property (such as second home) [or] an invitation or proof of address if staying with a third party, friends or family. A carta de invitation completed by your hosts is one of the options available." 

Invitation letter (carta de invitación) is a document needed for NON-EU citizens to be able to travel to Spain without having booked commercial accommodation (hotel, AirBnb). If a NON-EU citizen needs a tourist visa to enter Spain, it might be required for the visa application. If a tourist visa is not required, it could still be requested at the border when entering Spain. The invitation letter is issued for a maximum of 90 days. Documents needed to acquire the document include a rental contract or property deed, copy of passport of the NON-EU person, DNI/NIE/TIE of the inviting person, application form and tax payment confirmation.

It is also important to make sure your passport is up to date for travel. It should be good for three months after you plan to leave the Schengen area and less than ten years old when you go in. These rules have changed since the UK left the European Union, and it is easy to get caught out. 

• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie policy
• Cancellation and Refund Policy

Tourist Visa for Spain

The Tourist visa for Spain allows you to visit Spain for tourism, vacation and sightseeing purposes. It also permits you to visit family and friends residing in Spain.

For more information about the Tourist visa for Spain, including what you need to do to be eligible for it, how to apply, and expert advice for your application, reach out to us today on  (+44) 333 4149244  or contact us  online

Request a call back from our immigration experts

• Our Services
• Content /Overview
• Related Pages

Benefits of Choosing IAS ‘ Spain Immigration Lawyers

When it comes to obtaining a Spain visa or permit, IAS Spain immigration lawyers are well-equipped to help you.

With IAS’ track record of successfully helping clients visit or immigrate to Ireland successfully, we can help businesses and individuals achieve their goals.

Our dedicated immigration lawyers provide our services through a comprehensive and personalised approach. With IAS, you enjoy:

Expert support from an experienced immigration lawyer dedicated to your success

Support in gathering supporting documents and completing a high-quality application.

Confidence that your case is being handled by an experienced team.

In-house document checks done by lawyers who are accredited by the IBA in Madrid and Seville.

Services we Provide

Need help with an immigration issue? Book a one-to-one advice session with one of our legal caseworkers.

We can complete your visa application on your behalf, taking the stress and hassle out of the process.

Need to submit an application quickly? We can help you complete and send it off in as little as 24 hours.

Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal with our legal support and guidance.

Overview of the Tourist Visa for Spain

When you apply for the tourist visa for Spain, you actually get the Schengen visa which will allow you to spend a maximum of 90 days in Spain. Furthermore, since Spain is part of the 27 countries in the  Schengen area , the visa permits you to visit Spain and other Schengen countries.

The tourist visa, also known as the category C short-stay visa, is purely for tourism and sightseeing purposes and does not permit the holder to work.

Before you apply for this visa, it is necessary to confirm if you need the Schengen visa to enter Spain or the Schengen area. This is because some nationals are exempt from applying for the tourist visa.

To get the visa, you must prove to the consulate that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Spain. You must also convince the consulate that you will leave Spain when your permit expires.

Note that if you intend to spend more nights in another country in the Schengen area other than Spain, you must apply at that country’s embassy. However, if you will be spending equal time in all the countries you intend to visit, then it is essential that you make your application to the consulate of the country through which you’d be entering the Schengen territory.

Your visa permits you to stay for a maximum of 90 days out of 180, and should you want to renew, you’d have to spend the next 90 days in a non-EU country.

Who Can Apply for a Tourist Visa for Spain?

If you are from a non-European country, you will need a Schengen visa to visit Spain.

There are exceptions, though. For example, the citizens of Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Australia and the US can visit Spain if they intend to stay for less than 90 days. This is because the European Union agreed with these countries to grant their citizens visa-free entry into the EU.

However, this visa-free entry only applies to the citizens of these countries and not the residents.

It is necessary to note that from November 2023, the citizens of these countries who enjoy visa-free entry into the Schengen area would need the ETIAS visa waiver to enter the Schengen area for tourism, business or transit.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) visa waiver process can be completed online.

What Are the Requirements?

To get the tourist visa for Spain, you will need to provide documents that will identify you and prove you are going to Spain for legitimate purposes. You will also need to show that you are financially capable of taking care of yourself (and your dependents) while in Spain.

Financial Requirements

As part of the tourist visa requirements, you must show that you have enough money to financially support yourself (and any dependent) during your stay in the Schengen zone.

If you are staying for 10 days or less, you will need to show you have 90% of the minimum wage for 10 days which is €900. If you are staying for more than 10 days in Spain, then you have to prove you have €70.77 daily.

You typically prove this by submitting any of the following:

• A six-month bank statement.
• A credit card statement.
• A letter of sponsorship if someone else will bear the cost of your trip. This letter should come with the person’s bank statement.

Additional Visa Requirements

You will need to also prove to the consulate that you will leave Spain after the duration of your stay. This is done by submitting proof of your employment situation.

If you are employed, you need to provide the following:

• Your employment letter.
• Your bank statement for the last 6 months.
• Certificate of Income Tax showing that your tax is being deducted.
• No-objection letter from your employer showing they approved your time off work and also showing that you have an obligation to return to your duty post.

If you are self-employed, you will need to show the following:

• Your company’s bank statement in the last 6 months.
• Your business licence.
• Income Tax Return.

If you are a student, you will need to show the following:

• Your admission letter.
• No-objection or leave approval letter from your school.

If you are retired:

• Pension statement from the bank in the last 6 months.

Our expert immigration lawyers can assist you with your Tourist Visa application.

Required Documents

Here are the documents you’ll need to provide. Note that the consulate reserves the right to request additional documents to support your application:

• A completed and duly signed visa application form. This form can be found online.
• A passport. Your passport should have at least 2 empty pages, be less than 10 years, and be valid for at least 3 months after you leave the Schengen territory.
• Two photographs taken within the last 3 months following the Schengen photograph specification. This should be attached to your visa application form.
• Copies of your passport pages. You must make copies of the biodata pages of your passport and the pages with visa stamps.
• Proof of flight reservation. This should have your name and the dates you intend to arrive and leave Spain.
• Proof of residence in the country you are applying from. This could be your student ID, National ID, driver’s licence or voter card. Note that they should contain your current address.
• A travel medical insurance certificate. This should cover medical costs of up to €30,000 and must be valid in all Schengen countries for the duration of your stay. Your medical insurance covers your medical bill in an instance of a health emergency.
• Proof of hotel reservations for all the nights of your stay. The reservation should have the name, address and contact of the hotel.
• If you are visiting a friend or family, they will have to send you a letter of invitation which you will present to the consulate. You will have to show both the original and the copy.
• If you are travelling with your child, who is a minor and your spouse isn’t going with you, you will have to provide a notarised authorization letter showing your partner’s consent to travel with the child. You’ll need to provide this, too, if the child is not yours.
• Birth/adoption certificate of the minor.
• A cover letter that explains why you are travelling to Spain and how long you intend to stay.
• Evidence of visa fee payment.

How Do I Apply?

To apply for the tourist visa for Spain, do the following:

Download and Fill out The Application Form

Go to the website of the Spanish embassy in the country where you reside and download the visa application form. Ensure the details you fill in are correct and up-to-date. Also, make sure you sign at the end of the form.

To avoid your application being rejected, the details in the application form should tally with the details of the documents you will submit to the embassy. For example, your age and name on the application form should be the same on your ID and passport. It is not unheard of that discrepancies in personal details cause visa denial.

Schedule An Interview

When your form and documents are ready, go to the Spanish embassy website and schedule an interview. Scheduling could be done via phone call or the website.

Attend Your Interview

Take your documents with you to the embassy. There, you will meet with a consular officer who will ask you some questions regarding the purpose of your application. The officer will also be the one to review your documents.

If you are applying for a Schengen visa for the first time in 5 years, your biometrics will be captured.

Where Should I Submit My Application?

It is vital to note that you should only submit your application to the Spanish embassy if:

• You will only stay in Spain.
• You will tour other countries in the Schengen area but will spend the most time in Spain.
• You will spend an equal amount of time in several countries in the Schengen territory but will enter through Spain.

Once you meet any of the conditions above, proceed to the Spanish consulate in your country to submit your application. In some countries, Spain outsources their visa application to a third party. Therefore, you should visit the third-party application centre to submit your application.

If your country does not have a Spanish consulate or a third party responsible for managing their visa applications, you will have to visit the consulate in the nearest neighbouring country.

What Are The Fees And Processing Times?

A tourist visa for Spain costs €80 if the visitor is above 12 years of age. For children within the age bracket of 6 to 12, the fee is €40. The visa is free for children younger than 6 years.

Processing Times

On average, the Spanish embassy and all other Schengen embassies process short-term visas within 15 working days. But it can take longer if the consulate is dealing with a surge of applications. When this happens, it might take 30 to 60 days to get a decision on your application.

Note that you cannot make your application more than 180 days or less than 21 before departure. It is wise to complete your application early, within the 180 days window.

Find out how we can assist with your Tourist Visa application.

How Can IAS Help?

Applying for a tourist visa for Spain can be quite a task due to the many documents that must be submitted. It can get overwhelming handling all the tedious processes required, especially if you are a busy business or career person.

If you need assistance with your Spanish tourist visa application, such as if you are not too sure of the requirements and application method, IAS can help.

At IAS, we understand the need to take some time off work and business to see the world and connect with friends and family across the globe. So, we are dedicated to maximising your chances of doing this.

Our team of formidable immigration advisers can guide you every step of the way during your application for a Tourist visa for Spain. What we can do include:

• Liaising with you via phone, skype or even in person at your convenient time;
• Helping you check your documents to ensure they are good enough for your visa application;
• Ensuring you meet the financial requirements for the tourist visa for Spain;
• Accessing your eligibility;
• Completing each segment of your application form to the best standard;
• Offer support if your visa application has been rejected, we can be there to guide you through the process.

For more information about our services and what we could do for you, reach out to one of our immigration advisers on  (+44) 333 4149244  or contact us  online  today.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone.

Table of Contents

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i extend my tourist visa while in spain.

You can extend your tourist visa while in Spain, but this has to be under strict circumstances. These circumstances are:

• You have a single-entry tourist visa and came into the Schengen region days after the validity of your visa started counting.
• Your country is at war, or a pandemic has broken out, making it unsafe for you to return.
• You are receiving medical treatment or avoiding going back to poverty.

You will have to remain in Spain when you apply for an extension. If your application is rejected, you must leave Spain in two days.

Why Was My Visa Application Rejected?

The tourist visa application can be rejected for many reasons. Some common causes are insufficient funds to finance your travel and stay in Spain, incomplete documents and inconsistent or incorrect information.

Usually, if your application is rejected, you will also be notified why. Then, you can either appeal the decision or correct what was wrong and reapply again.

Can My Visa Be Cancelled?

Your visa can be cancelled if the consulate determines that you no longer meet the requirements for which they gave you a permit in the first place.

The visa can be revoked before or after you have left for Spain. If you are in Spain when this happens, you will be issued an ultimatum to leave Spain within a time frame, after which your stay will be considered illegal.

What our clients are saying

We are the UK’s leading immigration specialists

OISC Accredited UK Immigration lawyers

We’ve had over 9000 applications approved

We are now open 7 days a week from 8.30am to 6pm.

How our UK Immigration Lawyers can help

At the Immigration Advice Service our lawyers specialise in a wide range of UK visas, nationality and asylum applications and have represented clients in various successful complex and high-profile cases.

Get in Touch

Immigration Advice Service Ashwood House, Ellen Street Oldham, OL9 6QR

We have over 20 offices across the UK, find a branch near you:

Related pages for your continued reading

Spain Study Visas

If you want to study in Spain, you may need to obtain a study visa. Click here to learn more about Spain’s study visas.

Immigrate to Spain

Foreign nationals who want to immigrate to or visit Spain may require one of the various visas. Learn more here.

Spain Short-term Visas

If you wish to travel to Spain for pleasure, business, study, training, or visit, a Spanish Schengen visa may be a good route. Learn more here.

Spain Family visas

IAS Spain immigration lawyers can help you reunite with your family in Spain. Contact us today for support.

Spain Residency

There are a few routes to permanent residency in Spain. Click here to explore them.

Spain Work Visas

Looking to work in Spain or obtain a work visa for your employee? We can help. Learn more here.

In the news

Get in touch with our team

Learn about our professional services and find out how we can help.