Comprehensive Guide to Traveling, Living and Working in Spain

Spain is known for its bustling cities, diverse culture, siesta time, beautiful beaches, great architecture, and delicious cuisine. It is regarded as the second most visited country in the world. Travelers from the United Kingdom do not need a Spain visa for stays up to ninety days within 180 days. 

Spain being a Schengen area nation, has different entry and exit conditions for travelers based on their nationality, duration of stay, and purpose of visit.

Spain Entry Conditions

Spanish entry conditions vary on the type of passport held by the visitor. However, it has been reported that Spain’s passport validity rules may be stricter than its entry conditions. The requirement for a Spanish visa will depend on the citizenship of the traveler and the duration of stay.

Spain Entry Conditions for US Travelers

Travelers from the United States of America do not require a visa for Spain if they plan to visit the country for 90 days (in a 180-day period). The passport should be valid for six months, and three-month validity is required beyond the date of departure. Americans can stay up to 90 days for tourism and business purposes in Spain.

Currency Restrictions for Entry and Exit: None

Travel Visa Requirements: Not needed for travel up to 90 days

Blank Pages in Passport: One

Vaccination: Not Required 

However, in the case of official travel, different rules may apply. American travelers should contact the Embassy of Spain to learn more about the Spanish visa type and entry requirements based on their passports.

Spain Visa Types

Spain offers different visa types to citizens of different countries. The following Spanish visa types are available:

Spain Schengen Visa: Travelers (if belonging to visa-eligible countries) require a Spanish tourist visa and can apply for a Schengen visa for Spain (Visa Type C) for stays up to 90 days and adhere to Schengen entry rules and regulations.

Family Reunification Visa: Foreigners who enjoy permanent residency status in the country can apply for this family reunification visa to exercise the right to be reunited with their family.

Spanish family visa is not available for citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland. 

Student Visa: Prospective students (belonging to visa-required nations) planning to study in the country may need to apply for a short-term Spanish student visa if the duration of their course exceeds 90 days.

Individuals belonging to visa-exempt countries do not need a student visa for Spain if the duration of their course program is less than 90 days. 

Spanish Golden Visa: The Golden visa for Spain, or the Spanish Golden Investor visa, is available for non -EU nationals. As the EU is opposed to it, the Spanish government is considering either doubling the investment for the residency program or abolishing the program.

Spain Entrepreneur Visa: The Spanish start-up visa helps interested applicants to undertake entrepreneurial economic activity in the country. Spouses, unmarried partners, children, dependent adult children, and relatives in worker’s care are also eligible for the Spanish entrepreneur visa.

Non-Lucrative Residence Visa: Individuals who wish to immigrate to Spain and have adequate means to support themselves can apply for this long-stay visa. Remember, this is only available for those who do not wish to work there, and it is illegal to work on this visa.

Digital Nomad Visa: Digital Nomads can apply for "Ley De Startups" and continue to work remotely as with a Spanish Digital Nomad visa. This way, they can regularize their work conditions and continue to enjoy their Spanish lifestyle.

ETIAS for Spain: Travelers from visa-exempt countries will need a Spanish ETIAS in 2024. ETIAS for Spain is not a visa and is only for citizens of eligible countries. ETIAS visa waiver will become mandatory once it comes into effect.

Passport and Other Travel Documents

Spain is strict about passport validity rules. Travelers abound to España (another name for Spain) need to have the following.

1. A valid passport and a legitimate travel document with 3 months of validity from the date of departure. Travelers should check it should have been issued within ten years before the date of entry.
2. Visa-eligible nationalities will require a valid Spanish visa.
3. Return and onward ticket
4. For work-related travel, a letter of invitation from a Spanish organization will be required.
5. For travel related to studies, a letter of enrollment or proof of admission to a Spanish university or educational establishment will be needed.
6. For tourism purposes, proof of confirmed reservation for group trips, hotel reservations, or invitation letters from private individuals will have to be provided.
7. Proof of sufficient funds (if applicable). Please note letters from banks or online statements will not be accepted.
8. Visitors should not be subjected to the entry ban in Spain
9. Travelers must not pose any health risk at the time of entry
10. Third-state nationals must have a Spanish entry visa, paperwork, and economical means to support themselves.

Please note citizens of Norway, Iceland, the European Union, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and members of their families only need to carry a valid passport and their national identity card to enter Spain.

Adventure Travel in Spain

The Festival of Saint Fermin, popularly known as the running of the bulls, occurs in the month of July between the 7th-14th in Pampalona. Travelers are advised to exercise discretion and not take part in it as many tourists get badly injured or killed. In most cases, insurance does not cover it. 

Tourism and Cuisine

The world’s largest food fight, La Tomatina Festival, is held on the last Wednesday of August every year and is a huge tourist attraction. Madrid is known as the headquarters of the World Tourism Organization. As the second most visited country in the world, it offers travelers summer resorts, beaches, and some much-needed siesta (afternoon nap) time. 

In Spain, food is not just about cooking, it’s a way of life. It offers a diverse cuisine, and tourists should try Spanish tortillas, Paela, Tapas, Patatas Bravas, Gazpacho, Leche Frita and more should be on every foodie’s list.

Emergencies

The pan-European Emergency number is 112. It also diverts the user to the relevant service. Travelers can use the following emergency services in Spain

• 080 for Fire Services
• 092 for Local Police
• 061 for Ambulance
• 091 for National Police

Additionally, they can contact their local embassy and check if they can receive any assistance.

Romance Scams

Beware of romance scams in case a traveler is visiting Spain to meet an online date. Many travelers have fallen victim to the romance scam and have been swindled dollars by persons who feign romantic interest over the internet. 

Investment Scams

Before making any investment in Spain, it is advised to contact the Embassy of Spain as the country is still deliberating whether or not to continue its residency by investment program. At the same time, it has started issuing Spanish Entrepreneur Visa, but interested applicants are advised to seek trusted legal counsel before making any investment.

Remember, disputes can be costly and difficult to resolve.

Strikes and Demonstrations

Travelers should note that strikes and demonstrations are a regular feature in Spain. There is a danger that even political demonstrations may turn violent at any time of the day. Even flights get delayed or canceled because of demonstrations at the airport.

Tourists visiting Spain should always follow instructions issued by local authorities and avoid areas where strikes may occur. Visitors should stay updated by following the local news.

Beach Activity

Travelers should keep themselves informed of the weather report. They should be cautious when visiting the Spanish beaches and must follow the signage and obey warning flags. For instance, red signals dangerous waters, whereas the black flag stands for contaminated water bodies. The yellow flag is for agitated water, and the green flag is for calm waters, and swimming is allowed.

Road Safety

Many tourists have reported that drivers may drive at high speed in Spain, and the road conditions vary from place to place. The crossing between Spain and Gibraltar is known for increased border controls, and tourists have experienced significant delays.

Tourists are advised to make necessary food arrangements and be prepared for lengthy delays when traveling by road.

Living, Working, and Studying in Spain

Citizens of the European Union can live and work freely in Spain. Non- EU citizens will need a Spanish student and work visa to study in the country. As one of the popular expat destinations in Europe, Spain offers great weather, lovely beaches, and a high quality of life. Being a Schengen area country, it adheres to Schengen rules. Travelers are advised to obtain appropriate Spanish visas if they belong to visa eligible country before visiting this charming destination.