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Spain Schengen visa — full guide
Spain receives more Schengen visa applications than almost any other state outside France and Germany. Its consulates can be slow during summer and at Mobile World Congress (late February) every year.
Where to apply
Spain uses BLS International and VFS Global as intake partners. Spain is one of the top-three Schengen visa issuers globally.
Processing time
Spanish consulates publish 15-day standards but often run 20–35 days at peak (especially Mumbai, Manila, Beijing).
Travel insurance
€30,000+ Schengen insurance mandatory; Spanish consulates often verify policy validity by direct contact.
Photo requirements
Strict 35×45 mm biometric photo to Spanish MFA spec.
Common visa purposes
- Madrid, Barcelona, Seville classical tourism
- Costa del Sol beach holidays
- Camino de Santiago pilgrimage
- Football tourism (Real Madrid, Barcelona)
- Business at Mobile World Congress
Most common refusal cause
Itinerary with most days outside Spain — must be primary destination if applying via Spanish consulate.
Best time to apply
Peak Apr–Oct; secondary Dec.
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