Spain Visas Guide: Types, Requirements, and Application Process

When planning to visit or move to Spain, selecting the right visa is a critical first step. There are various Spain visa types, including Schengen, national visas, residence permits, and long-stay visas for third-country nationals. Each type has specific entry requirements, required documents, and a defined validity period.

This guide outlines the main Spain visas, application form procedures, and the documents you need to apply for a visa. 

You can also find out more about:

• Who needs a visa for Spain?
• Spain Schengen Visa
• Spain Digital Nomad Visa
• Spain Job Seeker Visa
• Spanish Citizenship

Who Needs a Visa for Spain?

Whether you need a visa to enter Spain depends on your nationality, length of stay, and purpose of visit. Citizens of the European Union, EEA, and Switzerland enjoy free movement and do not need a visa or residence permit for entry or long-term stays.

Most third-country nationals need to apply for a visa to enter Spain. This includes travelers who plan to stay more than 90 days or intend to work, study, or reside there.

Travelers entering for tourism or short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period must check if they need a Schengen visa. Those planning to stay longer will require a national visa and, in most cases, a residency permit.

Always confirm the entry requirements with the relevant consular office or consulate general before travel, and ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay, with two blank pages available for stamping.

Schengen Visa

Visa Type

The Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows entry into Spain and other countries within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is intended for tourism, business, short-term education, or family visits. It is not a residence permit and cannot be converted into a long-stay visa while in Spain.

Visa Requirement

To apply for a Schengen visa, the applicant must meet the following entry requirements:

• A valid passport issued within the last 10 years with at least 2 blank pages and valid for at least 3 months beyond departure from the Schengen zone.
• Completed application form and signed declaration.
• Recent passport-sized photo.
• Travel health insurance covers the Schengen area.
• Proof of accommodation in Spain.
• Proof of sufficient economic means, such as bank statements or employment contracts.
• Return flight reservation.
• Purpose-specific documents, such as invitation letters for business or family members.
• Visa fee payment receipt.

Some consular offices may request additional documents depending on the nationality or purpose of the visit.

Visa Cost

• Adults: €80
• Children aged 6 to 12: €40
• Children under 6: Free
• Visa application fees are non-refundable, even if the visa is denied.

Non-Lucrative Visa Spain

Visa type

The Non-Lucrative Visa Spain is a long-stay visa for individuals who wish to reside in Spain without engaging in any professional or commercial activity. It is primarily used by retirees, remote workers not registered under the digital nomad category, or individuals seeking a residency permit based solely on financial means.

Visa requirement

• Be over 18 and hold a valid passport with at least two blank pages with a validity period of at least one year.
• A completed application form.
• Recent passport photograph.
• Proof of sufficient economic means or passive income (bank statements, retirement benefits, etc.).
• Police-issued background check covering the past 5 years, with official translation and apostille.
• Health insurance covers the Schengen area.
• Medical certificate verifying the applicant does not suffer from any disease that could impact public health.
• Marriage certificates or birth certificates (with official translation) for the following family members.
• Proof of accommodation in Spain.

Visa cost

• U.S. citizens: €140
• Other nationalities: €80–€100 (depending on country and consulate)

Payment is typically made at the consulate general or consular office during the appointment.

Digital Nomad Visa Spain

Visa type

The Spain Digital Nomad Visa is a national visa designed for third-country nationals who work remotely using digital and telecommunication tools. It allows remote workers and freelancers to live in Spain while working for foreign companies or clients, and a limited percentage (max 20%) of income may come from Spanish companies.

This visa offers a clear pathway to a residence permit and can be renewed for up to five years. It also provides access to healthcare, the option for family members to join, and a route to Spanish citizenship.

Visa requirement

To apply for a digital nomad visa, the applicant must:

• Be over 18 and hold a valid passport with at least two blank pages.
• Submit a completed application form and a passport-sized photo.
• Provide proof of a stable employment contract or freelance relationship of at least 3 months with a foreign company.
• Show professional qualifications—a university degree or at least 3 years of industry experience.
• Provide proof of sufficient economic means:
  • Main applicant: €33,156
  • First dependent: €12,500
  • second and subsequent: €4,200
• Submit bank statements or proof of payment confirming regular income.
• Show health insurance from a Spanish-authorized provider.
• Provide a background check with an official translation.
• Secure accommodation in Spain.

Applicants must register with Spanish Social Security or provide a certificate of coverage from their home country.

Visa cost

• Visa fee: €90
• Additional fees may apply for family members

Spain Study Visa

Visa type

The Spain Study Visa is a national visa that allows third-country nationals to reside in Spain while undertaking full-time studies, research, training, or voluntary service programs. It applies to academic programs exceeding 90 days and grants eligibility for a residence permit tied to the course duration.

After completing studies, this visa can be extended or modified into other permits, such as a work permit or residency permit.

Visa requirement

• A valid passport with a minimum validity period equal to the study duration and two blank pages.
• Completed application form and recent photograph.
• Letter of acceptance from a Spanish educational institution.
• Proof of sufficient economic means (approximately €700–€1,000/month) via bank statements or financial sponsor documents.
• Health insurance is valid in Spain for the full stay.
• Proof of accommodation in Spain.
• Background check certificate with the official translation (if staying over 180 days).
• Medical certificate stating the applicant has no illnesses that pose a public health risk.
• For minors: parental consent and officially translated marriage certificates or birth certificates.

Visa cost

• U.S. citizens: €141
• Most other nationalities: €80

Spain Job Seeker Visa

Visa type

The Job Seeker Visa Spain is a long-stay national visa that allows non-EU nationals to legally reside in Spain for a limited period while searching for employment. Recent graduates or qualified professionals often pursue it to transition into a residence permit linked to an eventual employment contract or work permit.

This visa does not permit employment during the job search period, but it can be converted into a work or professional visa once a job is secured.

Visa requirement

• Be a recent graduate from a Spanish higher education institution (within the last two years) or hold a recognized foreign qualification equivalent to at least Level 6 of the European Qualifications Framework.
• Submit a completed application form and a valid passport with two blank pages.
• Show proof of sufficient economic means for the entire stay—at least 100% of IPREM (€600/month).
• Provide health insurance coverage in Spain.
• Provide proof of accommodation.
• Background check with an official translation.
• Academic credentials with official translation and legalization.
• Additional documents may be requested by the consular office based on the applicant’s nationality and situation.

Visa cost

• Approx. €60–€80, depending on the consulate general
• Non-refundable and payable at the time of visa application

Working Holiday Visa Spain

Visa type

The Working Holiday Visa allows young individuals from eligible countries to reside and work temporarily in Spain, typically for cultural exchange and travel purposes. This national visa is valid for up to one year and grants limited work rights under pre-defined conditions.

Spain currently has working holiday agreements with select countries such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and others, depending on reciprocal arrangements.

Visa requirement

• Be between 18 and 30/35 years old (the age limit depends on the agreement with the applicant’s country).
• Hold a valid passport with at least a one-year validity period and two blank pages.
• Submit a completed application form and a passport-sized photo.
• Provide proof of sufficient economic means to support the initial stay (e.g., €7,200/annum), often verified through bank statements.
• Provide health insurance covering the duration of stay.
• Show a return ticket or funds to purchase one.
• Present a clean background check with an official translation.
• Meet the entry requirements specified by the consulate general.

Note: The number of visas issued annually may be capped depending on the bilateral agreement.

Visa cost

• Approx. €80, depending on nationality and local consular office.
• Payment is required during visa application.

Entrepreneur Visa Spain

Visa type

The Entrepreneur Visa or the Spain Self Employed Visa, is a national visa aimed at third-country nationals intending to launch an innovative business in Spain. It offers a pathway to a residence permit for individuals whose projects are deemed beneficial to the Spanish economy and innovation ecosystem.

This visa differs from a standard self-employed visa, focusing on scalable, tech-driven, or strategically valuable ventures. It supports family members under the same application.

Visa requirement

• Submit a detailed business plan approved by ENISA or another Spanish evaluation body.
• Present a valid passport with a sufficient validity period and two blank pages.
• Provide a completed application form and a passport-sized photo.
• Show evidence of the project’s economic viability, innovation, and potential for job creation.
• Present proof of sufficient economic means to support living expenses (e.g., €2,400/month for the main applicant, with additional funds for family members).
• Submit health insurance documentation.
• Provide a background check with an official translation.
• Show qualifications, professional experience, or certifications relevant to the business.
• Confirm the proposed business has the necessary civil registry documentation, licenses, or official translations if required.

Visa cost

• Approx. €80–€100
• Fees may vary by consulate and are payable upon visa application.

Skilled Professional Visa Spain

Visa type

The Skilled Professional Visa, also known as the Highly Qualified Professional Visa Spain, is a residence and work permit for third-country nationals hired by a Spanish company to perform a specialized role requiring advanced skills, experience, or academic qualifications. This national visa is ideal for executives, specialists, or graduates with in-demand profiles.

It grants access to a residency permit, Schengen travel, and the possibility of bringing family members under the same application.

Visa requirement

• Be at least 18 years old and not a citizen of the European Union or affiliated states.
• Possess a valid passport with a suitable validity period and two blank pages.
• Have a job offer from a Spanish employer that meets the required salary thresholds and qualifications.
• Submit a completed application form, passport photo, and signed employment contract.
• Provide proof of qualifications (degree, diploma, or at least 3 years of industry experience).
• Submit bank statements or employer sponsorship for sufficient economic means.
• Provide health insurance and a recent background check with an official translation.
• Register with Spanish Social Security upon arrival.
• Include official documents proving the company’s legal status and business activity.
• Additional documents may be requested by the consulate general or consular office.

Visa cost

• Approx. €80–€100, payable at the consular office.
• Fees may vary slightly based on nationality and consulate location.

Spain Work Permit

Visa type

The Spain Work Permit is a national visa that allows third-country nationals to reside and work in Spain under a valid employment contract with a Spanish employer. It leads to a residency permit and can be renewed or transitioned into permanent status based on continued employment and residence.

This permit applies to various employment categories, including seasonal, fixed-term, or highly specialized roles.

Visa requirement

• Secure an employment contract with a Spanish company that meets wage and occupational criteria.
• Submit a completed application form and a valid passport with at least two blank pages.
• Provide proof of qualifications and/or professional experience.
• Show a recent background check with an official translation.
• Present a medical certificate stating the applicant does not suffer from diseases that could impact public health.
• Provide health insurance, proof of sufficient economic means, and accommodation details.
• The employer must prove the position could not be filled by local or EU job seekers.
• Additional documents may be requested by the consular office, including official translations, company tax records, or civil registry evidence.

Visa cost

• Fees range from €80 to €167, depending on job category and consulate general.
• Paid at the time of visa application submission.

Spanish Citizenship

Spain offers a path to citizenship for third-country nationals who meet long-term residency and integration criteria. Spanish Citizenship grants full rights as a Spanish national, including free movement within the European Union, access to national services, and eligibility for a Spanish passport.

Requirements

To be eligible for Spanish citizenship, the applicant must:

• Reside legally in Spain for 10 consecutive years (reduced to 2 years for nationals of Ibero-American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, and Sephardic Jews).
• Hold a valid residence permit and maintain uninterrupted residency (no more than 6 consecutive or 10 total months abroad during the 10 years).
• Pass the A2 DELE Spanish language exam unless exempt.
• Pass the CCSE cultural exam covering Spanish society, laws, and government.
• Provide a clean background check with an official translation.
• Submit civil registry documents, including birth and marriage certificates, with official translation and apostille.
• Prove integration into Spanish society through schooling, employment, or community involvement.

Documents

• Completed application form
• Valid passport
• TIE (Foreign Identity Card)
• Proof of residence
• Proof of sufficient economic means
• Health insurance
• DELE and CCSE certificates (if required)
• Official translations of all foreign documents
• Background check
• Additional documents may be requested by the civil registry

Process

After application approval, the applicant must:

1. Swear allegiance to the Spanish Constitution and the King.
2. Renounce previous citizenship (except for countries with dual citizenship agreements).
3. Complete registration in the Spanish Civil Registry.

Citizenship for minors born in Spain

Children born in Spain to foreign parents may apply for citizenship after 1 year of legal residence without the need for exams.

Spain Intercompany Transfer

Visa Type

The Spain Intercompany Transfer Visa (ICT) is a residence and work permit allowing third country nationals to relocate temporarily to Spain under a corporate structure. It applies to employees being transferred to a Spanish branch, subsidiary, or partner company from abroad, either within a multinational group or under a professional services agreement.

Spain offers two subcategories:

• EU ICT Permit – for transfers within the same company group across EU states.
• National ICT Permit – for intra-company transfers outside of EU corporate structures.

This national visa includes Schengen area mobility and can be extended into a residence permit.

Visa Requirement

To apply for an intercompany transfer visa, the applicant must:

• Be an executive, specialist, or trainee with at least 3 months’ prior employment in the home company.
• Hold a valid passport and submit a completed application form.
• Present an employment contract or transfer letter detailing the assignment duration, role, and salary.
• Provide background check documents with official translation.
• Submit health insurance, proof of sufficient economic means, and accommodation details.
• Show Social Security coverage from the home country or register with Spain’s system.
• The employer must submit company documentation confirming the business relationship and the purpose of the transfer.

All official documents must be properly translated and legalized if issued outside of Spain.

Visa Cost

• Fees vary by nationality, typically around €80–€100
• Payment is made during visa application at the consulate general

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Spain Visas

Can I apply for a visa while already in Spain?

In most cases, you must apply for a visa at the appropriate consulate or consular office in your home country before traveling. Certain residence permits, like the Digital Nomad Visa, may allow for application from within Spain under specific conditions.

How long does the visa application process take?

Processing times vary by visa type and consular office but typically range from 15 to 60 days. Some residence permits may take longer, depending on the volume of applications and the complexity of the case.

What happens if my visa is denied?

If your visa application is denied, you will receive a written explanation. You may appeal the decision or reapply with improved documents or corrections.

Do all visa types allow family reunification?

Yes, most long-term national visas and residence permits, including the non-lucrative, skilled professional, and digital nomad visas, allow you to bring family members, including spouses, children, and dependent relatives.

Is health insurance mandatory?

Yes. You must have valid health insurance from a Spanish or EU-authorized provider. It’s required for almost all visa types, especially residency permits.

How much money do I need to prove for sufficient means?

This varies by visa type. Generally, between €600 and €2,800 per month is required. Some visas also require bank statements, employment income, or proof of financial sponsorship.

What is the difference between a national visa and a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa is for short stays (up to 90 days), while a national visa covers longer stays and is often tied to work, study, or residency purposes.

Can my visa be converted into a residence permit?

Yes, certain long-stay visas can be converted into residence permits upon meeting eligibility conditions and submitting documents at a local police station or immigration office.

What if I overstay my visa in Spain?

Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and bans on re-entry. Always adhere to your visa’s validity period and apply for extensions or residency permits on time.

Do I need to translate my documents?

Yes, most foreign documents must be accompanied by an official translation into Spanish and sometimes an apostille or legalization, especially for background checks, marriage certificates, and academic documents.

What are the main Spain visa types available in 2025?

Spain offers several visa types, including Schengen visas, national visas, residency visas, student visas, long term visas, and immigration visas for work, family, and business purposes.

Is a Spain visa required for U.S. citizens?

Spain visa for U.S. citizens is not required for short stays up to 90 days. However, U.S. citizens must apply for a visa for long term visas, such as work, study, or residency visas.

Can I complete the Spain visa application form online?

Yes. The Spain visa application form online is available for certain visa categories through consulate or official immigration platforms. Some processes may require printing and in-person submission.

What are Spain long term visas used for?

Spain long term visas are for stays exceeding 90 days and include categories like residency visas, digital nomad visas, study visas, and immigration visas for employment or family reunification.

How can I track my Spain visa application?

Most Spain visa tracking services are offered by the relevant consulate general or visa processing center. You’ll need your application reference number and passport details to access the tracking tool.