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Spain visas

Spain visa on arrival

A Schengen visa may be issued at Spain's border in exceptional circumstances. This is not a routine option for a planned holiday.

Ways to get a Spain visa on arrival

  1. Exceptional single-entry Schengen visa at the border

    Visa on arrival

    Travellers who meet the regular visa requirements and prove that unforeseen and urgent circumstances made an advance application impossible.

    Stay
    Up to 15 days.
    Valid for
    Up to 15 days.
    Entries
    Single entry.
    1. Explain and document why you could not apply in advance.
    2. Request the visa at the border and show that you meet the regular visa requirements.

Who needs it

This route is reserved for travellers who can prove that unforeseen, urgent reasons prevented an advance application and who meet the regular visa requirements.

How to apply

  1. Present evidence showing why unforeseen and urgent circumstances prevented an advance visa application.
  2. Request a visa at the border and meet the regular Schengen visa requirements.

What to bring

  • Evidence of the unforeseen and urgent circumstances.
  • Documents showing that the regular Schengen visa requirements are met.

Good to know

  • If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian reasons, national interest or international obligations.
  • An airline may refuse boarding if you do not already have the required travel documents.
  • A separate family member route at the border is described in the family entry category.

Questions

Do I need a visa on arrival for Spain?

This route is reserved for travellers who can prove that unforeseen, urgent reasons prevented an advance application and who meet the regular visa requirements.

How long can I stay on a Spain visa on arrival?

Up to 15 days for an exceptional single-entry border visa.

How long is a Spain visa on arrival valid?

Up to 15 days. Entries: Single entry..

What documents do I need for a Spain visa on arrival?

Evidence of the unforeseen and urgent circumstances.; Documents showing that the regular Schengen visa requirements are met..

How do I apply for a Spain visa on arrival?

1. 1. Present evidence showing why unforeseen and urgent circumstances prevented an advance visa application. 2. 2. Request a visa at the border and meet the regular Schengen visa requirements.

What rules do I have to follow on a Spain visa on arrival?

If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian reasons, national interest or international obligations.

Does my passport change whether I need a visa on arrival for Spain?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Spain visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a visa on arrival for Spain be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Spain visa on arrival rules?

On Spain's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my visa on arrival once I am in Spain?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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