Foreign nationals planning to visit Spain can apply for a Schengen visa, among other visa types offered by the Spanish government. But before you start the application process, you ought to know the visa requirements as well as the Spain Schengen visa processing time. We provide clarity below.
What Is the Spain Schengen Visa Processing Time?
When the Spanish embassy receives a Schengen visa application from an applicant, it takes about 15 days to process. However, in special cases, the processing time can take up to 45 days, depending on the volume of applications the embassy is handling.
The Kingdom of Spain
Spain is the second largest European country by land mass, covering an area of 505,990 km2. It is also one of the most populated countries on the continent, with close to 47 million inhabitants. Officially called the Kingdom of Spain, Spanish is the country's official language.
Spain has a long history of boasting rich vegetation and lovely landscapes, as seen in some of its big cities like Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and the capital, Madrid. There are cultural festivals hosted across the country throughout the year, like the tomato festivals, thrilling parties in Ibiza, and the famous bullfighting exhibitions staged all around the country.
Spain is also one of the world's top tourist countries, with tourism being one of the top revenue earners for the country. Famous tourist sites such as the Great Mosque of Cordoba, Sagrada Familia, and Generalife Gardens draw in crowds every day.
Is Spain A Schengen Country?
Spain is a Schengen country, having joined the association in 1995. The Kingdom is also an EU member State which allows the government to issue Schengen visas to visitors in line with the immigration laws agreed upon by other Schengen member states. A holder of a Spanish Schengen visa can enter the 26 other countries in the Area as long as their visa is valid.
Who Needs A Spain Schengen Visa?
This visa is meant for citizens from non EU/Schengen countries or those not from countries in Spain's visa-exempt list.
Types of Spain Schengen Visa
You can get any of these visas as long as you meet the requirements
Tourist Visa: A tourist Schengen visa is issued solely for the purpose of tourism. Holders can visit any of the famous tourist sites in the country and enjoy all the side attractions on display.
Transit Visa: This visa is for those passing through Spain en route to another country. It has a short validity date.
Business Visa: The Schengen business visa is for those that wish to visit Spain on business. They can visit to attend meetings, engage suppliers or participate in business summits and events like trade fairs.
There are also medical visas, and sports, cultural, and film crew visas, among other visa types. These visas have special requirements.
Spain Schengen Visa Cost
A Schengen visa door Spain has different fees depending on the applicant's age. Children under six don't pay an application fee; those between Sox to eleven years of age pay €40, while applicants between 12 and 80 years pay €80. Applicants coming for charity events may be exempted from such fees.
Spain Schengen Visa Processing Time
The visa takes 15 days to process, so you must factor this waiting time into your plans. If you plan to travel in a month, endeavor to apply for the visa at least three weeks before the day. In special circumstances, the processing time may extend beyond the 15-day mark due to a backlog of unprocessed applications. So ensure that your documents are accurate and valid, including the information you provide in your application form.
Spain Schengen Visa Requirements
You must provide the following documents to avail of a Schengen visa.
Application Form: You must fill out and sign the visa application form. Don't leave any sections unfilled, and make sure you provide only valid information that corresponds with what you have in your documents.
Photos: Two recently taken passport photographs showing your physical details clearly. The photos must be in good condition, not smeared or creased.
Valid Passport: A valid passport with a minimum of three months validity from the departure date from Spain. The passport must not be older than ten years.
Round Trip: A round trip reserved flight ticket showing your flight number and the entry and departure date.
Hotel Reservation: Hotel reservation if you don't have any private residence to stay. The copy should show the address of the hotel.
Travel Insurance: A €30,000 travel insurance to cover potential medical bills you may incur during your stay.
Proof of Funds: A statement of account showing proof of funds of a minimum of $100 daily or $30 daily for students to cover their daily expenses.
Now that you know the Spain Schengen visa processing time, do well to apply for your visa as early as possible to avoid delays and changes to your travel plans.