Visa requirements

Spain

General visa requirements for travelling to Spain. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Journalist visa (Schengen Visa-Free Entry (Journalist))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

• Maximum stay: 90 days
• Validity: 180 days
• Entry: Multiple entry

Visa-exempt nationals can enter Spain for short-term journalism assignments under the standard 90/180-day visa-free regime. Press credentials recommended but not required at border.

Eligibility

• Nationality

  Citizens of EU Annex II visa-exempt countries

• Purpose of visit

  Must be visiting for short-term journalistic activities within 90-day limit

  Includes

  • Short-term journalism
  • reporting
  • filming

Documents you need

• Passport

  Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 3

• Travel insurance

  Coverage area: Schengen area; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000

---

Journalist visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Journalist)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

• Maximum stay: 90 days
• Processing time: 15 calendar days
• Fee: EUR 80
• Validity: 180 days
• Entry: Multiple entry

Schengen visa for accredited journalists and media professionals visiting Spain for short-term assignments. Requires press credentials and assignment letter from media organization.

Eligibility

• Nationality

  Citizens of EU Annex I countries requiring Schengen visa

• Purpose of visit

  Must be a credentialed journalist or media professional on a short-term assignment

  Includes

  • Journalism
  • reporting
  • filming
  • interviews
  • press coverage
• Employment

  Must be employed by or contracted with a recognized media organization

  Required status: Employed or contracted by media organization

Documents you need

• Passport

  Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

• Photo

  Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm color photographs

• Proof of funds

  Accepted forms: Bank statements or media organization financial guarantee; Minimum amount: Sufficient for duration of stay

• Employment letter

  Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

  Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: No

• Travel insurance

  Coverage area: Schengen area; Minimum coverage: EUR 30,000

• Accommodation proof

  Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

  Accepted types: Hotel bookings or accommodation proof; Must cover full stay: Yes

• Flight reservation

  Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

  Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes

• Application form

  Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

  Form name: Schengen visa application form

• Cover letter

  Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.

• Visa fee payment

  Accepted methods: Cash, card; Amount: EUR 80

How to apply

1. Document gathering

   Gather press credentials, assignment letter from media organization, and all standard Schengen visa documents.

2. Online application

   Complete the Schengen visa application form.

3. Appointment booking

   Book appointment at visa application center or consulate.

4. Document submission

   Submit all documents at the appointment.

5. Biometrics

   Provide biometric data if required.

6. Fee payment

   Pay visa fee (EUR 80) and service center fee.

7. Processing wait

   Wait for processing. Standard 15 calendar days.

8. Visa collection

   Collect passport with visa.

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.