Visa types
Tourist Schengen visa
A short-stay visa for trips to Barcelona, Madrid, Andalusia or the islands.
Business visa
For meetings, trade fairs and business talks in Spain; an invitation from the Spanish company is the core of the file.
Visiting family or friends
For visiting relatives or friends in Spain; an invitation and the host's residence document are requested.
Student visa
A national student visa for study or language programmes longer than 90 days, requiring admission and proof of funding.
Typical documents
- Valid passport and copies of previous visas
- Completed and signed application form
- Biometric passport photo
- Travel medical insurance valid across the Schengen area
- Return flight reservation
- Proof of accommodation or invitation letter
- Recent bank statements
- Employer letter, payslips and SGK service record
- For business owners: tax registration and trade registry gazette
- For students: certificate of enrolment and the sponsor's documents
Document lists vary by applicant and by consulate; the consulate's current official list is always the one that counts.
How to apply
- 1
Confirm that Spain is your main destination and choose your visa category.
- 2
Check the Spanish mission's current document list.
- 3
Complete the application form and prepare your documents.
- 4
Book an appointment at the authorised visa application centre.
- 5
Submit your documents and give your biometric data at the appointment.
- 6
Track your application and collect your passport.
Practical tips
- For a summer holiday in Spain, planning your application in spring makes finding an appointment easier.
- If a family member is paying for your trip, add a sponsorship letter and the sponsor's financial documents.
- If you are travelling on a tour, the tour programme and bookings should match the rest of your file.
- If you are heading to the Canary or Balearic Islands, document your domestic flights and accommodation too.