Get Your Spain Visa Online

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Spain?

It depends on your nationality. Visa-exempt countries (60+ nations) include the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most Latin American countries. Citizens of these nations can visit Spain and the entire Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. EU/EEA citizens have unlimited right to enter and stay in Spain. Countries requiring visas : Citizens from countries not on the exemption list must apply for a Schengen visa at a Spanish consulate or visa application center before travel. Check the current Schengen visa exemption list for your specific nationality. Regardless of visa requirements, all travelers need a passport valid for at least 3 months beyond their intended departure date.

Q: What is the Schengen visa and how does it work?

The Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows travel throughout the 29 Schengen Area countries with a single visa. Spain is a founding member of the Schengen Area. How it works : Once you receive a Spanish Schengen visa, you can freely travel to France, Portugal, Italy, Germany, and all other Schengen countries without additional visas or border checks. 90/180 rule : You can stay up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period in the entire Schengen Area combined. Main destination rule : Apply to the country where you will spend the most time. If visiting multiple countries equally, apply to your first entry point. Types : Single-entry (one trip), double-entry (two trips), or multiple-entry (unlimited trips within validity period). Multiple-entry visas may be issued for up to 5 years based on your travel history.

Q: What documents do I need for a Spain Schengen visa?

Required documents for Schengen visa application : • Visa application form : Completed and signed Schengen visa application form • Passport : Valid for 3+ months beyond departure, issued within last 10 years, with 2 blank pages • Photographs : Two recent passport photos (35x45mm, white background) • Travel insurance : Minimum 30,000 EUR coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid throughout Schengen Area • Flight itinerary : Round-trip flight reservations • Accommodation proof : Hotel bookings, rental agreements, or invitation letter from host • Financial proof : Bank statements (3-6 months), pay slips, or sponsor letter showing minimum 100 EUR per day • Employment proof : Employment letter, business registration, or student enrollment letter • Travel itinerary : Detailed day-by-day travel plan Additional documents may be required based on your specific circumstances and the Spanish consulate's requirements.

Q: Can I extend my stay in Spain beyond 90 days?

Extending a short-stay Schengen visa beyond 90 days is difficult and only granted in exceptional circumstances . Valid reasons for extension : Serious illness preventing travel, natural disasters or civil unrest preventing departure, or humanitarian reasons. Extensions are processed at the Oficina de Extranjeros (Foreigners Office) in Spain and rarely exceed an additional 90 days total. Long-stay options : If you need to stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a long-stay national visa (Type D) before traveling. Options include student visa, work visa, or non-lucrative residence visa for those who can support themselves without working. Border run strategy : Unlike some regions, leaving and re-entering the Schengen Area does not reset your 90-day counter — the 180-day rolling window still applies. Overstaying consequences : Fines, deportation, Schengen-wide ban for up to 5 years, and difficulty obtaining future visas.

Q: Can I work in Spain with a tourist visa?

No , tourist visas and visa-free entry do not permit employment in Spain. Any paid work, even short-term freelance projects, requires proper work authorization. Working legally : Your Spanish employer must obtain work authorization before you can apply for a work visa. The process involves proving the position cannot be filled by a Spanish or EU citizen. Special programs : The EU Blue Card offers streamlined immigration for highly skilled professionals. Spain's entrepreneur visa welcomes business founders. The Golden Visa provides work rights to qualifying investors. Remote work : Spain launched a Digital Nomad Visa in 2023 for remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies, allowing stays of up to one year with renewal options. Requirements include minimum income of approximately 2,200 EUR monthly. Student work : Student visa holders may work part-time up to 20 hours per week. Penalties : Working illegally risks fines, deportation, and future visa bans for both employee and employer.

Q: Do I need to print my Spain visa or show it digitally?

Your Schengen visa is a physical sticker affixed to your passport — it cannot be shown digitally. The visa sticker contains your photo, visa validity dates, type, and number of entries permitted. At the border : Present your passport with the visa sticker to immigration officers. They will also stamp your passport with entry/exit dates. Supporting documents : While not always checked at the border, we recommend carrying printed copies of your accommodation bookings, travel insurance, return flight, and financial documentation. Immigration officers have the right to request these even after visa approval. Digital backups : Keep photos of all documents on your phone as emergency backup. Visa-free travelers : You do not need any printed visa — simply present your valid passport. Keep proof of accommodation and return travel available if requested. ETIAS (coming soon) : When implemented, visa-exempt travelers will receive an electronic authorization linked to their passport.

Q: How long does Spain visa processing take?

Standard Schengen visa processing for Spain takes 10-15 business days from the date of application submission. Factors affecting processing time : Your nationality, application completeness, consulate workload, and travel season all impact timing. Peak seasons : During summer (June-August), Easter, and Christmas periods, processing may extend to 30 days or more. Book consulate appointments early during these periods. When to apply : You can apply up to 6 months before travel but no later than 15 days before departure. We recommend applying 4-6 weeks in advance to allow for any complications. Appointment availability : Consulate appointment slots can fill up weeks in advance, especially in high-demand locations. Factor this into your timeline. Express processing : Some visa application centers offer premium services for faster processing at additional cost. DoVisa advantage : Our document review helps avoid delays caused by incomplete applications or missing paperwork.

Fast, secure Schengen visa processing for exploring vibrant cities, historic landmarks, and sun-drenched beaches

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How to Get Your Spain Visa

Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 10-15 business days

Complete the online application

Fill out our comprehensive Schengen visa application form with your personal details, travel itinerary, and accommodation plans. Our intelligent system validates your information against Spanish consular requirements and guides you through each section to ensure completeness.

Upload your documents

Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), recent passport-sized photographs meeting Schengen specifications, travel insurance with minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR, proof of accommodation, and financial documentation. Our experts review every document before submission.

We process your visa

Your verified application is submitted to the Spanish consulate or visa application center. We track your application status in real-time and notify you immediately of any updates, interview requirements, or requests for additional documentation throughout the process.

Receive your visa

Once approved, your Schengen visa sticker is affixed to your passport at the visa application center or consulate. Collect your passport and you are ready to explore Spain and the entire Schengen Area. Bienvenido a Espana!

Traveler using laptop to apply for Spain Schengen visa with travel guide and passport nearby

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Spain Visa Requirements & Entry Information

Schengen Tourist Visa

Up to 90 days

For tourism, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family

Business Visa

Up to 90 days

For meetings, conferences, and commercial activities

Visa Exemption

90 days per 180 days

Citizens from 60+ countries enter visa-free to Schengen

Student Visa

Duration of studies

For enrollment in Spanish educational institutions

Essential Requirements

📘Passport valid 3+ months beyond intended stay with 2 blank pages
📷Two passport photos 35x45mm, white background, recent
🏥Travel insurance covering 30,000 EUR minimum for Schengen
🏨Hotel reservations or invitation letter from Spanish host
💰Bank statements showing 100 EUR per day minimum
✈️Round-trip flight itinerary with confirmed dates

Schengen Visa & Visa-Free Entry

Spain is a member of the Schengen Area, meaning your Spanish visa grants access to all 29 Schengen countries. Understanding whether you need a visa depends entirely on your nationality and travel purpose. Visa-Free Entry Citizens from over 60 countries enjoy visa-free access to Spain and the Schengen Area for short stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This includes travelers from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most Latin American countries. Visa-free visitors simply need a valid passport (3+ months beyond departure) and proof of accommodation and return travel. Schengen Tourist Visa (Type C) Travelers from countries not on the visa-exemption list must apply for a Schengen short-stay visa before traveling. This visa allows stays up to 90 days for tourism, visiting family or friends, attending events, or short business trips. Spain should be your main destination or first entry point when applying for a Spanish Schengen visa. Single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry options are available depending on your travel history and plans.

The iconic Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona with its towering spires against a blue sky — Sagrada Familia — Gaudi's masterpiece and Barcelona's most visited landmark

Work, Study & Long-Stay Visas

Work Visa & Residence Permits Foreign nationals wishing to work in Spain require a work visa (Visado de Trabajo) and residence permit. The Spanish employer must first obtain work authorization from the Ministry of Labor. Highly skilled professionals may qualify for the EU Blue Card or Spain's special regime for entrepreneurs and investors. Work visas are issued for the duration of the employment contract, typically one year initially, and are renewable. Student Visa The Spanish student visa (Visado de Estudiante) is required for non-EU/EEA citizens studying in Spain for more than 90 days. Requirements include acceptance at a recognized Spanish institution, proof of financial means (approximately 600 EUR per month), health insurance, and accommodation arrangements. Students may work part-time up to 20 hours per week. Degrees from Spanish universities are highly regarded internationally. Golden Visa (Investor Visa) Spain's Golden Visa program offers residency to investors who purchase real estate worth 500,000 EUR or more, invest 2 million EUR in Spanish government bonds, or invest 1 million EUR in Spanish companies. This visa provides residency rights and eventual path to citizenship, plus freedom to travel throughout the Schengen Area.

The Royal Palace of Madrid with its grand neoclassical architecture and manicured gardens — Royal Palace of Madrid — One of Europe's largest and most beautiful royal residences

Entry Requirements & Documentation

Essential Entry Requirements All visitors to Spain must meet these fundamental requirements: • Passport validity: Minimum 3 months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen Area, issued within the last 10 years, with at least 2 blank pages • Travel insurance: Mandatory for visa applicants, covering minimum 30,000 EUR for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid throughout the Schengen Area • Proof of accommodation: Hotel bookings, rental agreements, or invitation letter from a Spanish resident • Financial means: Bank statements showing minimum 100 EUR per day of stay (Spanish consulates may require 3-6 months of statements) • Travel itinerary: Confirmed flight reservations showing entry and exit dates Biometric Data & Visa Application Centers Schengen visa applicants must provide biometric data (fingerprints and digital photograph) at a Spanish consulate or authorized visa application center (BLS, VFS Global). Biometrics are stored in the Visa Information System (VIS) for 5 years and may be reused for subsequent applications. First-time applicants and those whose biometrics have expired must appear in person. ETIAS (Coming Soon) From 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need to obtain ETIAS authorization before traveling to Spain. This is not a visa but an electronic travel authorization similar to the US ESTA.

The stunning Alhambra palace complex in Granada with its intricate Moorish architecture and reflecting pools — The Alhambra — A UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece of Moorish architecture

Entry Points & Processing Times

Major Entry Points Spain welcomes visitors through numerous international gateways: • Airports: Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suarez (MAD) is Spain's largest hub, followed by Barcelona El Prat (BCN), Palma de Mallorca (PMI), Malaga-Costa del Sol (AGP), and Alicante (ALC). Smaller airports serve the Canary Islands, Ibiza, and regional cities. • Seaports: Barcelona, Valencia, and Malaga welcome cruise ships. Ferries connect Spain to Morocco (Algeciras-Tangier), Italy, and the Balearic Islands. • Land borders: Open borders with France, Portugal, Andorra, and Gibraltar. Schengen internal borders have no routine passport control. Processing Times Schengen visa applications to Spain typically take 10-15 business days from submission. During peak travel season (summer, Christmas, Easter), processing may extend to 30 days. We recommend applying at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date but no more than 6 months in advance. Peak Travel Seasons Spain experiences high tourist volumes during summer (June-August), Easter week (Semana Santa), and major festivals like San Fermin (July) and La Tomatina (August). Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.

The ornate Plaza de Espana in Seville with its colorful ceramic tiles and Renaissance architecture — Plaza de Espana — Seville's magnificent showcase of Andalusian artistry

Why Choose DoVisa?

See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service

Feature	📋Applying Yourself	With DoVisa
Application reviewExpert review before submission	✗No expert check	✓100% reviewed by experts
Document validationCheck documents meet requirements	✗Risk of rejection	✓Pre-checked for errors
Customer supportHelp when you have questions	✗Government offices only	✓24/7 dedicated support
Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms	✗Complex forms alone	✓Step-by-step guidance
Status trackingKnow where your application is	✗Manual checking	✓Real-time updates
Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected	✗No refund possible	✓Money-back guarantee

1,000+Visas processed

24/7Expert support

4.7Customer rating

96%Approval rate

Sarah M.Jan 15, 2026

"DoVisa made my Schengen visa application for Spain seamless. Their document checklist was incredibly thorough and the support team answered all my questions promptly. Barcelona here I come!"

James T.Jan 8, 2026

"Applied for a business visa to attend a conference in Madrid. DoVisa's team reviewed everything and caught a small error before submission. Visa approved in 12 days!"

Priya K.Dec 22, 2025

"Good service overall. The appointment scheduling help was useful since consulate slots filled up fast. Got my Spain visa without issues."

Michael R.Dec 10, 2025

"First time applying for a Schengen visa and was nervous about the process. DoVisa walked me through every step. The Alhambra was worth all the effort!"

Elena V.Nov 28, 2025

"Excellent experience with DoVisa for my family trip to Spain. They helped with applications for all four of us. Everyone approved on first try!"

Robert L.Oct 18, 2025

"Reliable visa service. Clear instructions for the Spanish consulate requirements. Processing took about 15 days which was within expectations."

Amanda C.Sep 5, 2025

"DoVisa helped me understand the 90/180 day rule for Schengen. Their support team was patient explaining everything. Now planning my second trip!"

David N.Jul 22, 2025

"As someone who travels frequently to Spain for work, DoVisa has been invaluable. They helped me get a multiple-entry visa that makes my trips much easier."

Spain Visa FAQs

What types of visas are available for Spain?

Spain offers several visa categories as a Schengen member state. Schengen Tourist Visa (Type C) allows short stays up to 90 days for tourism, visiting family, or attending events. Business Visa is for commercial activities, meetings, and conferences within the 90-day limit. Student Visa (Type D) permits stays exceeding 90 days for educational purposes. Work Visa requires employer sponsorship and allows employment in Spain. Family Reunification Visa enables joining family members who are Spanish residents. Golden Visa provides residency through qualifying investments. Transit Visa is for passing through Spanish airports (rarely required for most nationalities). The appropriate visa depends on your nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay.

Do I need a visa to visit Spain?

It depends on your nationality. Visa-exempt countries (60+ nations) include the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most Latin American countries. Citizens of these nations can visit Spain and the entire Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. EU/EEA citizens have unlimited right to enter and stay in Spain. Countries requiring visas: Citizens from countries not on the exemption list must apply for a Schengen visa at a Spanish consulate or visa application center before travel. Check the current Schengen visa exemption list for your specific nationality. Regardless of visa requirements, all travelers need a passport valid for at least 3 months beyond their intended departure date.

What is the Schengen visa and how does it work?

The Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows travel throughout the 29 Schengen Area countries with a single visa. Spain is a founding member of the Schengen Area. How it works: Once you receive a Spanish Schengen visa, you can freely travel to France, Portugal, Italy, Germany, and all other Schengen countries without additional visas or border checks. 90/180 rule: You can stay up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period in the entire Schengen Area combined. Main destination rule: Apply to the country where you will spend the most time. If visiting multiple countries equally, apply to your first entry point. Types: Single-entry (one trip), double-entry (two trips), or multiple-entry (unlimited trips within validity period). Multiple-entry visas may be issued for up to 5 years based on your travel history.

What documents do I need for a Spain Schengen visa?

Required documents for Schengen visa application: • Visa application form: Completed and signed Schengen visa application form • Passport: Valid for 3+ months beyond departure, issued within last 10 years, with 2 blank pages • Photographs: Two recent passport photos (35x45mm, white background) • Travel insurance: Minimum 30,000 EUR coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid throughout Schengen Area • Flight itinerary: Round-trip flight reservations • Accommodation proof: Hotel bookings, rental agreements, or invitation letter from host • Financial proof: Bank statements (3-6 months), pay slips, or sponsor letter showing minimum 100 EUR per day • Employment proof: Employment letter, business registration, or student enrollment letter • Travel itinerary: Detailed day-by-day travel plan Additional documents may be required based on your specific circumstances and the Spanish consulate's requirements.

How long can I stay in Spain on a tourist visa?

With a Schengen tourist visa or visa-free entry, you can stay in Spain and the entire Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The 90/180 rule explained: This is a rolling window, not a calendar calculation. At any point in time, looking back 180 days, you must not have spent more than 90 days in the Schengen Area. Example: If you spent 60 days in Spain from January to March, you would have 30 days remaining for the next 180-day calculation period. Important: Days spent anywhere in the Schengen Area count toward your 90-day limit — time in France, Italy, or Portugal reduces your available days in Spain. Online calculator: The European Commission provides an official short-stay calculator to track your days. Overstaying penalties: Exceeding 90 days can result in fines, deportation, and future visa bans. Always track your days carefully.

Can I extend my stay in Spain beyond 90 days?

Extending a short-stay Schengen visa beyond 90 days is difficult and only granted in exceptional circumstances. Valid reasons for extension: Serious illness preventing travel, natural disasters or civil unrest preventing departure, or humanitarian reasons. Extensions are processed at the Oficina de Extranjeros (Foreigners Office) in Spain and rarely exceed an additional 90 days total. Long-stay options: If you need to stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a long-stay national visa (Type D) before traveling. Options include student visa, work visa, or non-lucrative residence visa for those who can support themselves without working. Border run strategy: Unlike some regions, leaving and re-entering the Schengen Area does not reset your 90-day counter — the 180-day rolling window still applies. Overstaying consequences: Fines, deportation, Schengen-wide ban for up to 5 years, and difficulty obtaining future visas.

Can I work in Spain with a tourist visa?

No, tourist visas and visa-free entry do not permit employment in Spain. Any paid work, even short-term freelance projects, requires proper work authorization. Working legally: Your Spanish employer must obtain work authorization before you can apply for a work visa. The process involves proving the position cannot be filled by a Spanish or EU citizen. Special programs: The EU Blue Card offers streamlined immigration for highly skilled professionals. Spain's entrepreneur visa welcomes business founders. The Golden Visa provides work rights to qualifying investors. Remote work: Spain launched a Digital Nomad Visa in 2023 for remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies, allowing stays of up to one year with renewal options. Requirements include minimum income of approximately 2,200 EUR monthly. Student work: Student visa holders may work part-time up to 20 hours per week. Penalties: Working illegally risks fines, deportation, and future visa bans for both employee and employer.

Do I need to print my Spain visa or show it digitally?

Your Schengen visa is a physical sticker affixed to your passport — it cannot be shown digitally. The visa sticker contains your photo, visa validity dates, type, and number of entries permitted. At the border: Present your passport with the visa sticker to immigration officers. They will also stamp your passport with entry/exit dates. Supporting documents: While not always checked at the border, we recommend carrying printed copies of your accommodation bookings, travel insurance, return flight, and financial documentation. Immigration officers have the right to request these even after visa approval. Digital backups: Keep photos of all documents on your phone as emergency backup. Visa-free travelers: You do not need any printed visa — simply present your valid passport. Keep proof of accommodation and return travel available if requested. ETIAS (coming soon): When implemented, visa-exempt travelers will receive an electronic authorization linked to their passport.

How long does Spain visa processing take?

Standard Schengen visa processing for Spain takes 10-15 business days from the date of application submission. Factors affecting processing time: Your nationality, application completeness, consulate workload, and travel season all impact timing. Peak seasons: During summer (June-August), Easter, and Christmas periods, processing may extend to 30 days or more. Book consulate appointments early during these periods. When to apply: You can apply up to 6 months before travel but no later than 15 days before departure. We recommend applying 4-6 weeks in advance to allow for any complications. Appointment availability: Consulate appointment slots can fill up weeks in advance, especially in high-demand locations. Factor this into your timeline. Express processing: Some visa application centers offer premium services for faster processing at additional cost. DoVisa advantage: Our document review helps avoid delays caused by incomplete applications or missing paperwork.

What if my Spain visa application is rejected?

Schengen visa rejections occur for various reasons, but options exist. Common rejection reasons: Insufficient financial proof, unclear travel purpose, incomplete documentation, previous Schengen violations, passport issues, or lack of strong ties to home country. Rejection notification: You receive a written refusal letter specifying the reason(s) for denial. Appeal process: Spain allows appeals within one month of the rejection notification. Submit your appeal to the Spanish consulate with additional supporting documents addressing the stated concerns. Appeals are reviewed and may take several weeks. Reapplication: You can submit a new application immediately with improved documentation. There is no waiting period between applications. Focus on addressing the specific reason(s) for the previous rejection. Prevention: Submit complete, well-organized applications with strong ties documentation (employment, property, family) and clear travel plans. DoVisa guarantee: We offer a money-back guarantee if your visa is denied despite following our guidance.

What is the best time to visit Spain?

Spain offers year-round appeal, with optimal timing depending on your interests. Spring (March-May): Ideal overall with pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, and Semana Santa (Easter) celebrations. Perfect for cities and coastal areas. Summer (June-August): Peak tourist season with hot temperatures inland (35-40C in Madrid, Seville). Best for beaches, festivals, and northern regions. Autumn (September-November): Excellent weather, fewer crowds, grape harvest in wine regions, and lower prices. Great for cultural exploration. Winter (December-February): Mild in southern Spain and Canary Islands, cold in central and northern regions. Ski season in Sierra Nevada. Major events: San Fermin/Running of the Bulls (July, Pamplona), La Tomatina (August, Bunol), Feria de Abril (April, Seville), Las Fallas (March, Valencia). Avoiding crowds: Visit major cities and attractions during shoulder seasons. Barcelona and Madrid are busy year-round but manageable outside August and major holidays.

Is Spain safe for tourists?

Spain is generally very safe for tourists and ranks among Europe's safest destinations, welcoming over 85 million visitors annually. Safe areas: Major tourist destinations including Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Valencia, Malaga, and the Balearic and Canary Islands have excellent tourist infrastructure and police presence. Common concerns: Pickpocketing is the primary issue in crowded tourist areas — La Rambla in Barcelona, Puerta del Sol in Madrid, and metro systems require standard precautions. Practical advice: Use hotel safes, carry minimal cash, secure bags in crowded areas, and be alert to distraction tactics. Violent crime targeting tourists is rare. For women travelers: Spain is very welcoming to solo female travelers with normal precautions. Health: Tap water is safe throughout mainland Spain. Healthcare is excellent. EU citizens should carry the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). All tourists should have travel insurance. Emergency: Dial 112 for emergencies. Tourist police (policia turistica) exist in major cities and often speak English.

What currency is used in Spain and how should I pay?

Spain uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency, shared with most European Union countries. Cards: Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted throughout Spain — restaurants, hotels, shops, and even small businesses typically accept cards. Contactless payments are common. American Express has more limited acceptance. Cash: Useful for small purchases, markets, some taxis, and small towns. ATMs are plentiful in cities and towns. ATM tips: Use bank ATMs to avoid high fees. When prompted, always choose to be charged in EUR rather than your home currency (to avoid poor exchange rates). Tipping: Not obligatory as service charges are often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated. Tax-free shopping: Non-EU visitors can claim VAT refunds on purchases over 90.16 EUR at participating stores — request the paperwork and process at the airport before departure. Budget: Mid-range travelers should budget approximately 100-150 EUR per day for accommodation, food, and activities.

Can I travel to other European countries with my Spain visa?

Yes, a Spanish Schengen visa allows travel throughout all 29 Schengen Area countries including France, Portugal, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Greece, and many others. No border controls: Internal Schengen borders have no routine passport checks. You can freely travel by train, car, bus, or plane between member countries. The catch: Your combined stay in all Schengen countries cannot exceed 90 days within any 180-day period. Days in France, Italy, or Portugal count against your Spain visa allowance. Main destination rule: You should have applied to the country where you spend the most time. If questioned, be prepared to show your itinerary justifies your Spanish visa. Non-Schengen EU countries: Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania are EU members but not in Schengen — separate entry rules apply. United Kingdom: Not part of Schengen or EU — British visas are completely separate. From Spain: Easy day trips to Portugal and France; ferries to Morocco; flights throughout Europe.

Do children need their own visa for Spain?

Yes, every traveler including infants requires their own passport and visa (if applicable) to enter Spain. Children cannot be included on parents' passports. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name meeting Schengen requirements (3+ months validity, 2 blank pages). Visa applications: If visas are required, children need their own applications signed by parents/guardians. Birth certificates and parental consent may be required. Traveling with children: If a child travels with only one parent, carry notarized consent from the absent parent plus their ID copy. If traveling with neither parent (grandparents, groups), carry notarized consent from both parents. Spanish border officials are vigilant about child trafficking and may request these documents. Visa fees: Children under 6 are exempt from Schengen visa fees. Children 6-12 pay reduced fees. Family-friendly Spain: Spain is exceptionally welcoming to families. Late dining times (9-10 PM) are normal and children are welcome everywhere. Many attractions offer family tickets.

What is ETIAS and do I need it for Spain?

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is an upcoming electronic travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers visiting the Schengen Area including Spain. Who needs it: Citizens of visa-exempt countries (US, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.) will need ETIAS before traveling to Spain once the system launches. Those who currently require visas will continue to need visas — ETIAS is not for them. Launch date: Expected in 2025 (repeatedly delayed from original 2024 target). Application process: Online application taking approximately 10 minutes. Fee of 7 EUR for adults (free for those under 18 or over 70). Most applications approved within minutes. Validity: Three years or until passport expiration, whichever comes first. Multiple entries permitted. What it is not: ETIAS is not a visa. It does not change your 90/180 day stay limit. It is a pre-screening tool similar to the US ESTA or Canadian eTA. Current situation: Until ETIAS launches, visa-exempt travelers need only their valid passport to enter Spain.