Overview of Spain Visas
Spain Visas offers to both citizens of the European Union (EU) and those from outside the EU. The type of visa you need depends on your circumstances and the purpose of your travel.
For European Union Citizens: EU citizens have the right to move freely within the territories of other EU member countries under the principle of free movement. Therefore, EU citizens do not need a visa for Spain for simple tourism purposes. However, if planning to stay in Spain longer than 90 days (three months), they will need to apply for a Residency Card at the local town hall or immigration office.
For Non-EU Citizens: Non-EU citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Spain. There are several types of visas available based on the purpose of travel and intended duration of stay, including:
- Student Visa
- Work Visa
- Tourist/Short Stay Visa
- Schengen Visa
Having a visa for Spain offers various benefits, including the right to work and study in the country, access to healthcare and public services, and the ability to live and settle permanently.
EU citizens holding a visa can also travel freely within other EU countries.
Non-EU citizens with a visa can reside in Spain for up to five years, with the possibility of extension based on meeting certain requirements, such as employment or self-employment.
Some visas also offer additional benefits, such as access to investment opportunities and residency for family members.

Student Visa
Students who intend to attend a course lasting up to three months at an educational institution in Spain can apply for a student visa. This type of visa can be granted for a period of up to 5 years, depending on the duration of the course.
Who Needs a Student Visa in Spain?
Typically, non-EU nationals who wish to study in Spain need to obtain a student visa. This includes students participating in exchange and internship programs, language courses, and research programs. EU citizens do not require a student visa as they have the right to freely move within other EU member countries.
Eligibility Criteria for a Student Visa:
To be eligible for a student visa in Spain, applicants must:
- Be accepted by an accredited educational institution in Spain.
- Have adequate financial resources to cover tuition fees and living expenses while in the country.
- Provide proof of health insurance.
- Not have a criminal record.
How to Apply for a Student Visa:
Applicants should first schedule an appointment with the consulate or embassy of Spain in their country. They need to complete and submit a visa application form, available for download from the embassy’s website. Additionally, they must provide proof of acceptance at a Spanish educational institution, proof of financial resources, and a valid passport. Depending on the applicant’s country of origin, additional documents may be required. If approved, the visa can be collected from the Spanish consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country.

Work Visa
A work visa for Spain allows individuals from outside the EU to work in the country. There are two main types: Employment Visa with a fixed-term contract and Self-Employment Work Visa.
Employment Visa With A Fixed-Term Contract:
This visa allows non-EU citizens to work in Spain under a fixed-term contract. Eligibility requires a job offer from a Spanish employer, sufficient financial resources, proof of health insurance, a valid passport, and a clean criminal record. The application process involves the employer submitting an application to the Ministry of Labour and Social Economy, followed by registration with the Spanish Social Security system. Once approved, the individual can apply for a work visa at the Spanish embassy or consulate in their country.
Self-Employment Work Visa:
For those wishing to start their own business or freelance in Spain, a self-employment work visa is required. Similar eligibility criteria apply, but applicants must also provide a business plan outlining their proposed activities in Spain. Additionally, they need adequate financial resources to cover business costs. Initial authorization to work as self-employed in Spain is required, followed by the application process for a self-employment work visa

Tourist/Short Stay Visa
For individuals desiring to visit Spain for holidays or sightseeing purposes, they may be eligible for a Tourist Visa. This visa permits a stay in Spain for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Eligibility Criteria for Tourist/Short Stay Visa:
To qualify for a Tourist/Short Stay Visa, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
- Hold citizenship of an eligible country.
- Possess a valid passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six months.
- Present evidence of adequate funds to cover the duration of the stay in Spain.
- Provide a valid return ticket or proof of onward travel.
Additional Documentation:
In addition to the aforementioned requirements, applicants may be asked to submit supplementary documents such as:
- A copy of the passport.
- Confirmation of accommodation arrangements in Spain.
- Proof of financial resources demonstrating the ability to sustain oneself during the stay.
Application Process:
Upon gathering all necessary documents, applicants should submit them to the Spanish authorities for review. If the application is approved, the applicant will receive the Tourist/Short Stay Visa, allowing them to visit Spain within the specified period.
Schengen Visa
The Spain Schengen Visa is a short-term visa granting its holder the right to travel freely within the Schengen Area. It is required for non-EU citizens intending to stay in Spain or visit other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 6-month period.
Types of Schengen Visas:
- Single-Entry Visa: Allows one entry into the Schengen Area within the specified period.
- Multiple-Entry Visa: Permits multiple entries into the Schengen Area during the visa’s validity, suitable for travelers with frequent visits or multiple destinations.
Schengen Area Countries:
The Schengen Area comprises 26 European countries that have eliminated passport and immigration controls at their internal borders, enabling unrestricted movement. These countries include:
Germany, Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Other Short-Term Schengen Visas Include:
- Spain Transit Visa: Issued for transiting through the Schengen area, including the Airport Transit Visa (ATV) and Seamen Transit Visa (STV).
- Spain Tourist and Visit Visa: Allows visits for leisure, visiting family/friends, or attending business meetings.
- Spain Business Visa: For business travel purposes within the Schengen area.
- Spain Medical Treatment Visa: For medical treatment within the Schengen area.
- Spain Visa for Diplomatic Passport Holders: Issued to diplomatic passport holders traveling within the Schengen area.
- Spain Study or Training Visa: For educational or training purposes, including studies and research for periods under 3 months.