Spain Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Valid for travel across 29 Schengen Area countries
- Maximum stay of up to 90 days in a 180-day period
- Available as single, double, or multiple entry visas
- Standard processing time of approximately 15 calendar days
- Mandatory travel insurance coverage of at least €30,000
- Requires biometrics collection (fingerprints and photo)
- Application typically serviced through BLS International or VFS Global
Processing time
15 - 30 working days
Processing may take up to 45 days in complex cases or during peak summer/holiday seasons. There is no official 'fast-track' service for tourist visas.
Estimated cost
$120 - $140
- Standard Schengen Visa Fee (Adults)€80 (approx. $87)
- Standard Schengen Visa Fee (Children 6-12)€40 (approx. $44)
- Visa Application Centre Service Fee$30 - $45
Requirements
- The applicant must be a resident of the country where they are applying.
- Purpose of travel must be strictly limited to tourism or family visits.
- The passport must have at least 3 months validity remaining after the intended exit date.
- Applicants must provide proof of legal status in their current country of residence.
- Proof of employment or student status is generally required.
- Sufficient funds to cover the stay (minimum €108 per day as of recent guidelines).
- The applicant must not be considered a threat to public policy or national security.
- Travel insurance must include repatriation and emergency hospital care.
- Minors must provide a birth certificate and notarised parental consent if travelling alone.
- The applicant must have no prior overstays in the Schengen Area.
Documents you'll need
- Completed and signed Schengen Visa application form
- Passport-sized biometric photographs (max 6 months old)
- Passport valid for at least 3 months after departure from the Schengen area
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
- Flight itinerary or round-trip flight reservations
- Evidence of sufficient financial means (last 3 bank statements)
- Travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
- Cover letter explaining the purpose and duration of the visit
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Determine Your Jurisdiction
Identify the Spanish Consulate or Visa Application Centre (like BLS International) that serves your jurisdiction based on your place of residence.
- 2
Complete the Application Form
Complete the official Schengen Visa application form accurately; ensure all information matches your passport and supporting documents.
- 3
Schedule an Appointment
Book an appointment for your visa interview and biometric data collection. These slots can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
- 4
Prepare Your Document File
Gather all required documents, including bank statements, insurance, and flight itineraries, ensuring they are translated if required.
- 5
Attend the Appointment
Attend your appointment in person to submit your file and pay the visa and service fees. If you haven't provided biometrics in the last 59 months, you will do so now.
- 6
Wait for Processing
Once submitted, your application is reviewed by the consulate. You can often track the status of your application online using your reference number.
- 7
Collect Your Passport
You will be notified to collect your passport. Check the visa sticker immediately for any errors in dates or name spelling.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Apply early—at least 3 to 4 weeks before your trip—to account for any unexpected delays.
- Ensure your bank statements are recent (within 1 month) and officially stamped by the bank.
- Write a clear cover letter that matches your hotel bookings and flight dates exactly.
- Double-check that your travel insurance policy specifically mentions 'Schengen Area' or 'Worldwide' coverage.
- Be honest about your travel history and any previous visa refusals from other countries.
- Do not submit stapled documents; use paper clips if necessary, as many centres require loose pages for scanning.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.