South Africa’s citizens must comprehend Spain’s visa requirements if they are planning a visit. Non-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Spain are required to secure the necessary visa. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover the Spain visa requirements for South Africans, the various visa categories and the application process.
Spain Visa Categories
There are two primary types of visas for Spain which are differentiated by the duration of stay:
- Short stay visas: For short-term visits ranging up to 90 days within a 180-day period, the Spain Schengen Visa applies. A Schengen visa is not required for the nationals of 62 countries as per the Schengen visa regime, if their visit corresponds to the Schengen visa purposes. Nevertheless, individuals previously denied entry into the Schengen region must obtain a Schengen visa for their visit to Spain. The initial visit has to be to Spain if you hold a Schengen visa for Spain, only then can you explore other Schengen countries.
- Long-stay visas: For stays exceeding three months, a Spain Long-Stay Visa, also referred to as a National Visa, is needed. Depending on the type of long-stay visa, the visa holder may also be authorised to work in Spain. Exceptions for long-stay visas are applicable to specific European Union member countries including Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland.
Short-term Visas (90-day maximum stay)
South African nationals must apply for a tourist visa, as South Africa is not among the visa-exempt countries. The Schengen visa allows its holder to stay in any EU/Schengen country for up to 90 days and is valid for 180 days.
You can apply for the following specific Spanish short-term visas depending on your purpose:
- Transit Visa
- Tourist and Visitor Visa
- Business Visa
- Medical Treatment Visa
- EEA/EU Dependent Visa
- Visa for Missing Residence Permit
- Study or Training Visa
- Visa for Diplomatic Passport Holders
National Visas (Long Stay)
The National Visa or Long Stay Visa allows individuals to stay in Spain for more than three months, permitting various activities not allowed under the Spain Schengen Visa.
The following are some of the Spanish National visas that you can apply for depending on the purpose of your travel:
- Student Visa
- Work Visa
- Family Visa
- Au Pair Visa
- Retiree Visa
- Golden Visa
- Entrepreneur Visa
- Working Holiday Visa
- Non-Lucrative Residence Visa
Spain Visa Requirements for South African Citizens
Before a Spanish visa is issued, South African applicants must provide the following documents:
- Completed Application Form
- Passport (South African)
- Cover Letter
- Proof of Accommodation
- Proof of Funds
- Travel Insurance
- Flight Bookings
How to Apply for Spanish Visa
South African citizens can apply for a Spanish visa in one of two ways:
Via a Consulate or Embassy
It involves visiting a Spanish consulate or embassy. They would need to submit their signed and completed application form along with the necessary documents. Following this, they would have an interview for visa consideration.
Online Application
The online application is ideal for those seeking short-term visa such as tourists, business or transit visas. The application process is strictly regulated by the Spanish government. Depending on the applicant’s country of residence, they may need to apply at a Spanish consulate, a Visa Application Centre.
Visa Processing Time
Typically, processing visas takes about 15 working days after submission to the Consulate. However, these times may vary and do not include the time necessary for making an appointment.
Note: As of September 2023, all information in this article is deemed accurate. It is vital to keep abreast of any changes in visa requirements, as the information provided here can change without notice. Compliance with these requirements is no guarantee of the issuance of a visa.
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