Since the United Kingdom left the European Union in 2020, travel between the UK and EU countries, including Spain, has undergone significant changes. The rules for UK citizens visiting Spain, living in Spain, or working in Spain have been impacted by Brexit. This article will clarify the visa requirements for UK citizens, detailing whether they need a visa to visit Spain, the process for long-term stays, and the documents required for the visa application.
Visa Requirement: Do UK Citizens Need a Visa to Visit Spain After Brexit?
One of the most important questions UK travelers have after Brexit is whether they need a visa to visit Spain. The short answer is: it depends on the type of visit and how long you intend to stay.
Before Brexit, UK citizens enjoyed the freedom of movement within the EU, which meant no visas were required for short trips to Spain. However, after Brexit, the situation has changed. UK citizens no longer enjoy the same freedom of movement, meaning they must adhere to new rules and regulations when traveling to Spain and other EU countries.
Short-Term Stays: How Long Can UK Citizens Stay in Spain Without a Visa?
For short visits, the rules have become more formalized after Brexit. UK citizens do not need a visa for short trips to Spain if they are staying for 90 days or less within a 180-day period. This rule applies to tourism, business, or family visits.
However, there are some important conditions to be aware of:
90/180 Rule: UK citizens can stay in Spain for a total of 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that if you have already spent time in another Schengen Area country (a group of 27 EU countries, including Spain), this time will count towards your 90-day limit.
Traveling for Business: If you are traveling to Spain for business purposes, you are still allowed to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
ETIAS Visa Waiver: From 2024, UK citizens will be required to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) visa waiver before traveling to Spain. The ETIAS is not a full visa, but a digital authorization, and it must be obtained online. It is quick and easy to apply for, with approval typically granted within minutes. The ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Long-Term Stays: What Are the Visa Requirements for Staying in Spain for Extended Periods?
If you intend to stay in Spain for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa or residence permit. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your stay.
Residency Visas: If you plan to live in Spain for the long term, you will need to apply for a residency visa. Spain offers several types of residency permits, including:
Golden Visa: For individuals who invest in Spain, such as purchasing property or starting a business.
Non-Lucrative Visa: For those who wish to live in Spain without working, typically for retirees or individuals with sufficient income from other sources.
Work Visas: If you have secured a job in Spain, you will need to apply for a work permit.
Student Visas: If you plan to study in Spain for more than 90 days, you will need a student visa.
Each visa has specific requirements, so be sure to review the eligibility criteria for the particular visa type that applies to your situation.
Work Permits: If you plan to work in Spain, you must obtain a work visa before arriving. Spain has a range of work visas, including those for skilled workers, highly qualified professionals, and seasonal workers. The specific work visa you need will depend on the type of job you intend to take.
Student Visas: For those planning to study in Spain for more than 90 days, a student visa is required. This visa allows students to live and study in Spain for the duration of their course.
Application Process: How to Apply for a Spanish Visa
Applying for a visa to Spain can be a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps. Below is a step-by-step guide to applying for a Spanish visa.
Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa You Need
First, determine which type of visa is required for your stay in Spain. The visa type will depend on your travel purpose—whether it’s for tourism, work, or study.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Once you have determined the visa type, you will need to gather the necessary documents. These documents will vary depending on the visa type, but generally, you will need the following:
A valid passport that remains valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay in Spain.
A completed visa application form. This can typically be found on the Spanish Consulate website or obtained in person at the consulate.
A passport-sized photo that meets the specific requirements for Spanish visas.
Proof of travel insurance that covers medical expenses for the duration of your stay in Spain.
Proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay (bank statements, sponsorship letter, etc.).
For long-term visas (such as work, student, or residency), additional supporting documents will be required, such as a job offer letter, student enrollment letter, or proof of investment.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Once you have gathered your documents, you will need to schedule an appointment at the Spanish consulate in your area. The consulate will have a booking system available online, and it is essential to schedule an appointment in advance to avoid delays.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Attend your visa appointment and submit your application along with the required documents. You may be asked to attend a visa interview, especially for long-term visas.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
After your application is submitted, you will need to wait for it to be processed. Processing times can vary, so it’s important to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Step 6: Receive Your Visa
Once your visa is approved, you will be notified by the consulate. You can then collect your visa or have it sent to you, depending on the consulate’s process.
Required Documents for a Spanish Visa Application
Here are the common documents required for a Spanish visa application:
Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned return date.
Visa Application Form: Completed and signed by the applicant.
Passport Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos.
Appointment Confirmation: Proof that you have scheduled an appointment with the consulate.
Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or proof of income showing you can support yourself during your stay.
Travel Insurance: A policy that covers the duration of your trip.
Additional Documents: Depending on the type of visa, you may need documents like a job contract, student enrollment, or investment proof.
Visa Fees: How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a Spanish Visa?
Visa application fees for Spain can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your nationality. For UK citizens, the typical visa fees are as follows:
Short-term Schengen visa (up to 90 days): €80
Long-term visa (e.g., work, student, or residency visas): Fees can vary widely depending on the visa type and processing time. For example, work visas can cost around €150, while student visas may cost around €60.
Check with the Spanish consulate or embassy for the exact fee applicable to your visa type.
Processing Time: How Long Does It Take to Get a Spanish Visa?
Processing times for Spanish visas depend on the type of visa you are applying for and your individual circumstances. As a general guideline:
Short-term visas (tourism, business, etc.) usually take around 15 calendar days to process.
Long-term visas (work, study, residency) can take several weeks or even months to process.
It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date—at least 4-6 weeks before you plan to travel.
Validity and Duration: How Long Is a Spanish Visa Valid?
The validity and duration of your Spanish visa depend on the type of visa you are granted:
Short-term Schengen Visa: Valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Long-term Visas: Valid for the duration of your stay in Spain, whether that’s for work, study, or residency.
Additional Tips for a Successful Visa Application
Ensure Your Documents Are Complete: Incomplete applications can cause delays or rejections, so double-check your documents before submitting.
Apply Early: Apply for your visa as early as possible to allow enough time for processing and any unforeseen delays.
Prepare for the Interview: If required, be prepared to explain the purpose of your visit to Spain and answer any questions the consulate may have.
Conclusion
While UK citizens no longer enjoy the same visa-free access to Spain that they did before Brexit, short visits for up to 90 days are still possible without a visa. However, travelers will need to apply for the ETIAS visa waiver from 2024. For longer stays, including working, studying, or living in Spain, UK citizens must apply for the appropriate visa. The process for applying for a Spanish visa can be straightforward if you follow the required steps, provide all necessary documents, and plan ahead. Whether you’re planning a short vacation or a long-term stay, being informed about the visa requirements will ensure your trip to Spain goes smoothly.
