Travel Requirements for Spain: Navigating Your Journey with Ease

Stunning Spain. What’s not to covet? Mouthwatering tapas, pilgrimage-worthy architecture, and its famed nightlife, fiestas and siestas - the Spanish know how to live. If you’re planning on taking a trip to explore its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities and rugged countryside - or even headed there for business, knowing what you need before you go can make all the difference. Here, we'll cover everything from visa requirements to travel documents, eligibility, and tips on what to avoid to ensure your visit is nothing short of fabulosa! 

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Spain? 

First things first. One of the top-of-mind questions travelers have when planning a trip to Spain is: "Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?" The answer depends largely on your nationality and the length of your stay. 

For short visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, citizens from countries in the Schengen Agreement (the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, among others) do not need a visa to enter Spain for tourism purposes. These travelers can enter Spain and other Schengen countries with just their passport. Easy! 

However, if you plan to stay longer, work, or study, you will likely need a visa. The type of visa required will depend on the purpose of your long-term stay. Common types include the Student Visa, Work Visa, and the Non-Lucrative Visa, which is ideal for retirees or those who can support themselves financially without working in Spain. 

To find out if you need a visa based on your specific circumstances, it’s best to consult the nearest Spanish embassy or consulate as early as possible. Remember, visa requirements can change, so always, always, always, get the most current information well in advance of your travel dates. The U.S. Department of State should be your go-to.  

What Travel Documents Do I Need to Visit Spain? 

The two absolute essentials when traveling to any other country are simple: the right travel documents and cash/credit cards. Once those two items are covered, anything is possible! When considering what travel documents you need for Spain, the basics include: 

• A Valid Passport: All travelers entering Spain must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay. However, it’s safer to have a passport valid for six months to avoid any discrepancies or last-minute issues at the border. 
• Visa (if required): As mentioned earlier, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, you may need to apply for a visa before departure. If you’re a U.S. citizen and you’re staying less than 90 days, you won’t need a visa. 
• Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, travel insurance that covers - at minimum - medical expenses is highly recommended. AXA Travel Protection plans are designed expressly for the needs of an international traveler and can cover you for lost luggage, trip cancellation and more. 
• Proof of Accommodation: Spanish officials will want to know that you have a place to stay during your visit. Whether it's a hotel booking or an invitation letter from friends or family, you should have evidence of your accommodations during your visit. 
• Proof of Financial Means: You may need to demonstrate that you have enough funds to support your stay in Spain. While generally credit cards or cash will do the trick, recent bank statements can also be used. 
• Return Ticket: This isn't always checked, but having proof of a return ticket can smooth your entry into Spain.

Am I Eligible to Travel to Spain? 

Eligibility to travel to Spain doesn't only hinge on having the right documents. Beyond those basics there are some special conditions that everyone needs to meet. 

• Health Regulations: Depending on the situation, like the recent global health crisis, there may be additional health screenings or requirements, such as vaccination certificates. Always check the latest health advisory and entry requirements before traveling. Again, the U.S. Department of State is the ultimate resource. 
• No Entry Bans: Being eligible also means you are not subject to any entry bans into the Schengen Zone due to past immigration or legal issues. If your history is clean, you’re ready to rock. 
• Sufficient Funds: It should go without saying that you should have enough money to cover your stay in Spain. This is typically estimated at about 70-90 euros per day, depending on your itinerary.  

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Spain? 

At a minimum, your travel insurance should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. When it comes to international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage. 
AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind. 

• Medical Coverage – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.   
• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.  
• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.  
• Coverage for Personal Belongings – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.  
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons.  Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders. 

Things to Avoid When Traveling to Spain 

To ensure a smooth trip, here are a few things to avoid: Less headaches. More time for travel 

• Overpacking: Travel light where possible. Spain is best explored on foot or using public transport, and lugging heavy bags around can put a damper on your enjoyment. 
• Ignoring Local Laws and Customs: Let’s state the obvious. You should always follow local laws. But sometimes less obvious is always being respectful of local traditions. For example, siesta time is observed in many parts of Spain, during which shops may close and streets quiet down. Read up on the particulars of your exact destination so your travel plans are in harmony with the local rhythm.  
• Underestimating Budget: Be realistic about how much you’ll spend. Tourist areas can be expensive and there are so many wonderful temptations in Spain to spend on! 

Tips and Advice for Traveling to Spain 

Now, let’s take a look at some of the things you absolutely should do to squeeze more joy out of your trip to Spain. 

• Learn a few Phrases: English is widely spoken at many of the tourist areas, but learning just a few key phrases can really go a long way. Thank you, hello, goodbye and please are a great place to start! 
• Get a Money Belt: While Spain is considered a safe place to travel within, Europe is notorious for pickpockets - especially in summer! Tuck your cash and travel documents into a money belt that you wear under your clothing to thwart them. 
• Take Photos of Important Documents: Before traveling, snap a quick photo of your passports, any visas, your credit card, etc. This can come in handy if the documents get lost or stolen. Be sure to back up your data in case your phone goes missing as well. 

By preparing properly and respecting local customs and regulations, your trip to Spain can be a wonderful life changing adventure that you will never forget. Safe travels!