Visas for Spain – Visit, Study, Work & Settle
Spain, a key member of the Schengen Zone, offers multiple visa types depending on your purpose of visit. This guide covers short-stay (Schengen) visas and long-stay national visas for students, workers, and families.
🇪🇸 Spain Visa Types
1. Spain Visit Visa (Schengen Type C)
This is for tourism, family visits, business, or short events (up to 90 days in 180-day period).
Documents Required:- Completed visa application form
- Passport (valid 3 months beyond return)
- 2 passport-size photos
- Travel medical insurance (€30,000 coverage)
- Proof of accommodation
- Return flight booking
- Bank statements (3-6 months)
- Employment/student letter (if applicable)
- Cover letter explaining purpose
2. Spain Student Visa (Long-Stay Type D)
Required if your course duration is more than 90 days. Shorter courses may use Schengen visa.
Documents Required:- University admission letter (public or private)
- Valid passport and photos
- Proof of accommodation in Spain
- Bank statements or financial sponsorship proof
- Medical insurance
- Criminal record certificate (translated & legalised)
- Visa application form
➡️ Apply through the Spanish Consulate or BLS Spain Visa Centre in your country.
3. Spain Work Visa (Skilled Professionals)
You need a valid job offer before applying for a work permit. Your employer in Spain applies for authorization first.
Documents Required:- Copy of job offer or signed employment contract
- Employer’s approval from Spanish Ministry of Labour
- Valid passport
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical certificate
- Proof of qualifications
4. Spain Family Reunification / Spouse Visa
If your spouse or parent is legally residing in Spain, they can sponsor you through reunification.
Documents Required:- Proof of relationship (marriage or birth certificate)
- Copy of sponsor’s residence card
- Proof of accommodation in Spain
- Financial proof by sponsor
- Medical insurance
- Police clearance
How to Apply for a Spain Visa
- Book an appointment via BLS Spain (UK: blsspainvisa.com)
- Submit application at the designated visa centre
- Pay the visa fee (varies by type)
- Track your application online
Visa Processing Time
- Visit visa: 10–15 working days
- Long-stay visas: 4–6 weeks on average
Pathway to Settlement in Spain
Foreigners can apply for Spanish residency and permanent residence over time:
- Residency permit after 1+ year of legal stay (non-EU nationals)
- Permanent residency after 5 years of continuous residence
- Spanish citizenship possible after 10 years (or 2 years for Latin American citizens)
- Family reunification rights after certain years of residence
Useful External Links
- Spain Visa Appointments – BLS International
- Spanish Ministry for Immigration (Oficina de Extranjería)
- Study in Spain – Official Portal
- Book Cheap Flights – EuroFlyDeals
📄 Related: Compare Student Visas | How to Apply for a Spain Visa