Dreaming of a Spanish getaway from Dubai? Spain is a top travel destination for a reason, offering something for everyone. Imagine strolling past charming whitewashed buildings, the perfect setting for your vacation photos. Beyond the beauty, Spain has a vibrant nightlife and stunning coastlines. But one important step before you pack your bags is securing a Spain Visa from Dubai. This guide details the visa application process for UAE citizens and residents planning a trip to Spain.
Understanding Schengen Visa
Spain is part of the Schengen Area, which allows a single visa for travel across 26 European countries. You’ll need a short-term Schengen visa to travel to Spain (or any Schengen country). This visa lets you stay up to 90 days and explore other Schengen countries. There are different visa types depending on your travel purpose, so choose the right one.
Note: You don’t need a visa to visit Spain as long as your UAE passport is valid.
Schengen Visa For Citizens in Dubai
If you are a UAE resident and want to travel to Spain, you must have your Schengen visa.
Types of Short-Term Schengen Visas
| Visa Type | Purpose | Description |
| Tourist Visa | Sightseeing, Leisure, Visiting Family/Friends | Ideal for exploring Spain’s cities, beaches, and cultural attractions. Perfect for holidays, vacations, and social visits. |
| Business Visa | Attending Meetings, Conferences, Negotiations | Designed for business travellers attending meetings, conferences, or conducting negotiations in Spain. Not valid for paid employment. |
| Transit Visa | Stopover in Spain | This allows passage through a Spanish airport en route to a final destination outside the Schengen Area. It is valid for a short stay only. |
Documents Required To Apply For a Visa in Dubai
- Valid Passport: Your passport and residence visa must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended return date from Spain.
- Completed Visa Application Form: Download the application form from the BLS International Services website and fill it out accurately.
- Emirates ID copy: Emirates ID is required to prove your residency status.
- Previous Schengen Visa Copy: Needed only if you have previously applied.
- Two Recent Passport-Sized Photographs: As per Schengen visa specifications.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings, hostel reservations, or a letter of invitation if staying with someone in Spain.
- Proof of Return Travel: Flight tickets confirm your Schengen Area departure. (Return Tickets).
- Travel Insurance: Minimum coverage of €30,000 for emergencies and hospitalisation throughout your stay.
- Proof of Financial Statements: Bank statements of the last 3-6 months showing the funds to cover your stay.
Employment Status Proof:
- For employed individuals: A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer declaring your leave approval and employment status.
- For self-employed individuals: Business registration documents and recent bank statements.
- For students: A letter from your educational institution confirming your enrollment status.
How To Apply for Spain Visa From Dubai:
- Know Your Visa Type: You must select the right visa category based on your travel purpose (tourist, business, transit).
- Gather Required Documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents, as mentioned earlier.
- Schedule an Appointment: BLS International Services operates authorised Spain Visa Application Centers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. You can schedule an appointment through their website.
Steps to Schedule an appointment:
- Head over to this link.
- Navigate to the option “book appointment.”
- Fill in the details
- Click on “Submit”
- Attend Your Appointment: Visit the visa application centre on your scheduled date with all the documents and the visa application fee. You’ll undergo biometric data collection (fingerprints and photographs).
Spain Visa Application Center Address in Dubai:
| Address | BLS International Spain Visa Application Center, I Rise Tower; 27th Floor, Office # C-13, Barsha Heights (Tecom), Dubai, UAE. |
| Closed | Saturday, Sunday, and holidays specified by the Embassy of Spain in Abu Dhabi. |
| Business Hours (Monday to Friday) | 9:00 to 17:00 hrs. |
| Application Submission | Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. |
| Passport Collection Only | Monday to Friday: 1:00 AM to 3:00 PM. |
| Phone | 043875660 |
| [email protected] |
- Visa Processing: The Spanish Embassy in Dubai will assess your application. Processing times can vary, so plan accordingly.
- Visa Collection: You’ll be notified once the visa decision is made. Once approved, you must collect your passport with the visa from the application centre.
How To Track The Spain Visa Application
- Step 1: Head over to this link.
- Step 2: Navigate to the option called “Track Application”
- Step 3: Fill in the reference number(application number), DOB.
- Step 4: Click “I Agree to the terms and conditions”
- Step 5: Fill in the captcha and click “Submit”.
And you will find all the details of your visa status on the screen.
What is the Processing Time For This Visa?
- In most cases, you will be informed within 15 working days whether your application has been successful.
- Processing times can take up to 45 days if a more detailed application examination is necessary.
It’s important to remember that these are estimated timelines. To account for any unexpected delays, it’s recommended that you apply well in advance (at least 180 days before your travel date).
What is the cost of a Spain visa from Dubai?
The mandatory visa fee for adults is €80 (around AED 350). Children between 6 and 12 years old pay a reduced cost of €40 (around AED 175), and children under 6 are free from the visa fee.
How to Cancel Your Spain Visa From Dubai?
Following these steps will help you efficiently cancel your Spain visa appointment at the BLS International Services website:
- Access the Appointment Management System: Start by visiting this website.
- Gather Appointment Details: Once you have booked an appointment, you will be given an appointment number, so you need to keep that number ready.
- Log In and Identify: To fetch your specific appointment details, enter the appointment number, name, date of birth, and email of the appointment holder.
- Confirm Cancellation: Enter the name of the person cancelling the appointment and explain the reason for cancellation.
- Finalise Cancellation: Once all information is entered, click the “cancel appointment” button to confirm the cancellation.
Why Travel Insurance is a Must?
While securing a visa is the gateway to your Spanish adventure, travel insurance is a safety net. It shields you financially from unexpected situations that could disrupt your trip. Medical emergencies abroad can be expensive, and this ensures coverage for hospitalisation, doctor visits, and medication, minimising the financial burden. This lets you fully relax and dive into the rich Spanish culture without worrying about unexpected costs derailing your dream vacation.
Additional Tips
- Apply well before your travel date, especially during peak seasons.
- Ensure your travel insurance covers the entire Schengen Area and the duration of your stay.
- Double-check your application form and documents before submission for errors.
- Missed appointments or incomplete applications can lead to delays or rejection.
Final Takeaway:
With a clear understanding of the visa requirements and application process, obtaining a Spain visa from Dubai can be a smooth experience. This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to gather the necessary documents, whether you’re a UAE resident or citizen. Now that you’re prepared for the visa process, exploring Spain’s captivating landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich history is just a few steps away. Start planning your dream Spanish getaway and get ready to experience the magic of this extraordinary country!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Do I need a visa to visit Spain from Dubai?
No, if you are a UAE passport holder, you don’t need a visa for short visits to Spain as long as your passport is valid. However, if you are a UAE resident, you will need a Schengen visa.
Q. Can I travel within the Schengen countries with a single visa entry?
A single-entry Schengen visa allows you to visit multiple countries within the Schengen zone during your stay. However, you cannot re-enter with the same visa once you leave the Schengen area. You’ll need a new visa to return.
Q. What is BLS?
The Embassy of Spain in UAE uses BLS International as a visa application service provider. BLS operates centres to collect and process visa applications from UAE residents, streamlining the process due to the high demand for Spanish visas.
Q. What will happen if I don’t have all the documents required?
We recommend including all the required documents with your Spain visa application. However, they will still accept your application for processing if something needs to be added. Be aware that incomplete applications may take longer to process.
Q.Which category of visa should I apply for?
The application center cannot suggest the visa type. The applicant must find it themselves. based on the purpose of travel.
