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Comparative Guide: Spain vs. Other Schengen Countries for Visa Applications
What sets apart a Spain visa from a Schengen visa? Do they hold equal significance, and can travelers explore multiple European countries with either? For visitors to Spain, various types of visas cater to different needs, with some passport holders from visa-exempt nations not requiring visas for entry into Spain.
This article delves into the distinctions between a Spain visa and a Schengen visa.
Understanding Spain Visa
A Spain visa, issued by the Spanish government through its embassies, applies to visitors from countries not under a visa-waiver policy. This visa exclusively permits travel to Spain and no other nation.
This category includes various visas, primarily long-term ones such as the Student Visa for international students in Spain, work visas for foreign employees, and residency visas for temporary or permanent residents. Holders of residency visas can acquire a residency card, affirming their eligibility for prolonged stays in the country.
National visas typically have a validity of one year, extendable up to four years or more. Permanent residency visa holders are exempt from renewal after their fourth year.
Schengen Visa
A Schengen visa, a collective visa issued by all 27 Schengen countries in Europe, applies to visitors from non-visa-exempt countries. It is a short-term visa valid for stays up to 90 days. Spain issues Schengen visas due to its Schengen zone membership, permitting multiple entries. Valid for 180 days, Schengen visas are commonly used for tourism, transit, family visits, and business engagements.
Schengen visa holders can visit not only Spain but also the other 26 Schengen countries, including non-Schengen territories like Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus, as well as microstates such as Andorra, Monaco, and the Vatican within Europe.
Note that the visa must be used to visit the primary destination before traveling to any other country.
Differences Between Spain Visa and Schengen Visa
What sets these visas apart? Let’s examine:
Recognition: While Schengen visas are recognized across most European countries (excluding the Republic of Ireland), a Spain visa is recognized solely by Spanish immigration. Holders of a national visa can only visit Spain, whereas Schengen visa holders can explore multiple European countries.
Validity: Spain visas are mostly long-term, except for tourist and transit visas, allowing stays exceeding 90 days and valid for one year or longer. In contrast, Schengen visas are short-term, valid for just 180 days.
Applying for a Spain Visa
Here are the 4 easy steps that you need to follow to apply for Spain Visa from Dubai, UAE:
1). Fill out the online Spain visa application form and pay the nominal Spain visa fee for scheduling your appointment.
2). You will receive a call from one of our Spain visa specialists who will book a BLS Spain Visa Dubai appointment as per your preferred dates and travel requirements.
3). One of our specialists will come to your doorstep to collect all the documents & your biometrics.
4). Receive your Spain visa along with your passport through post.
So, what are you waiting for? Book a BLS Spain Visa Appointment from Dubai as per your travel requirements to enjoy a hassle-free Spain visa acquisition experience!
Both visa types share similar document requirements, with additional documents required depending on individual circumstances:
- Completed application form
- Valid passport
- Two recent photos
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of financial means
- Travel medical insurance
- Round-trip flight ticket
- Cover letter
- Civil status proof for minors
In conclusion, the primary difference between a Spain visa and a Schengen visa lies in their usability: the former allows travel exclusively to Spain, while the latter permits travel to any Schengen country.
At Spainvisa.ae, our experts work to ensure a smooth and hassle-free Spain visa experience for Dubai residents. With our simple online Spain visa appointment & application process along with worry-free doorstep pickup services, you can enjoy a smooth Spain visa acquisition in Dubai, UAE. So, why wait? Apply for a Spain Visa from UAE today!