Good to know · ID & numbers
Short visits from family and friends: who needs a Schengen visa
Family and friends from many non-EU countries need a short-stay (Schengen) visa to visit you. The EU publishes the list of nationalities that need one. They apply at the consulate of the country they will visit (Spain, if Spain is the main destination). A resident in Spain can request a 'carta de invitación' from the police to prove the visitor’s accommodation.
- Why it matters
- Visitors need to plan weeks ahead: applications go in at least 15 days before travel, and the invitation letter takes time to issue and send.
- When
- Someone from outside the EU plans to visit you in Spain.
- How long it takes
- Visa: apply at least 15 days before travel; processing normally 15 days.
- Official page
- Applying for a Schengen visa
- Last checked
- 20 Oct 2026
In the guide: the 3 steps, what to bring (4 items), and tips and what to watch for, with every official source.