Spain is one of the world's most visited countries, with good reason. The Spanish people's art, beautiful cities, and relaxed attitude draw many visitors. Many different visas can be obtained depending on your situation. It is important to note that visa-exempt countries do not need a visa to visit.

Visa Exempt Countries

Certain countries do not need a visa to visit Spain. Visa-exempt countries include the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Argentina, and Japan.

EU Citizen

EU citizens can travel, work, and study in Spain without a visa. Talk about a great deal for citizens of the EU!

Different Types of Visas

There are many different types of visas for Spain depending on where you are coming from. Whether you are a traveler looking for a relaxing vacation, a sophisticated business person tired of hustle culture, or perhaps a student looking to expand their knowledge horizons, Spain has a visa for you.

Schengen visa

The Schengen visa is the coolest visa I have ever seen. Since the late 1950s, the EU has been trying to break down internal barriers to trade and travel. The Schengen visa is the answer to enabling European Citizens (and some other close friends) to travel between borders freely! A few of these countries include Spain, Italy, France, Germany, and the list goes on. It is important to note that Spain does not have an individual tourist visa. You will have to apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa, but only if you are not from a visa-exempt country.

Work Visa

If you are not an EU citizen, you will need a Work Visa to live and work in Spain. There are various types of Work Visas for Spain, a few are listed below:

Long-term Work Visas
Seasonal Work Visas
Au Pair Visas
EU Blue Card

There are many types of Work Visas that you can apply for, most require an application to your local Spanish embassy or consulate in your home country. For certain types of visas, your employer makes the initial application on your behalf.

Working as a highly-skilled employee is one option if your job is listed as a ‘Shortage Occupation.’ You may also consider Seasonal and self-employed/freelance work. The self-employed/freelance work visa is valid for one year but can be renewed if the requirements are met. Requirements are as follows:

Proof of sufficient finances to support yourself
Proof of relevant skills and experience
A business plan (if applicable)
Any contracts or commissions from companies
Any required licenses or registrations

The EU Blue Card is for those who have completed at least three years of higher education in a skilled profession or those with five years of professional experience at a high level.

Au Pairs live with a host family, participate in childcare, and become part of the host family for a short time.

Student Visa

Spain is a great choice for education with some of the world's best and most affordable universities. Once you are accepted to a course or program, you can apply for a student visa. You will be allowed to work up to 20 hours a week for the duration of your studies.

Digital Nomad Visa

The Digital Nomad Visa is an exciting new visa that Spain is supposed to release by September 2022. The visa is supposed to be valid for up to 5 years and includes tax incentives. If you want to know more details on this visa check out my blog post on the Spain Digital Nomad Visa.

Be sure to check back next week when we go over the high-speed trains of Spain, but until then, adiós!

Spain Visa Options