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Gambia passport → Spain

Spain visa for citizens of the Gambia

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Short-Stay)

Citizens of the Gambia need a visa for Spain and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Official application site

Verified · Last checked . Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry routeEmbassy / VFS · Schengen Visa (Short-Stay)
How to applyIn-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stayUp to 90 days
Visa validity90 days
EntriesSingle entry
Processing time15–45 days
Government fee€90 + €30 service fee
Passport validityAt least 6 months
BiometricsRequired
AppointmentRequired
InterviewNot required
Onward or return ticketRequired
Proof of fundsBank statements for the last 3 months showing sufficient balance (approx. €100 per day of stay)

How to apply

  1. 1

    Determine visa type and gather documents

    Check the Spanish embassy website for the correct Schengen visa category (e.g., tourist, business).

  2. 2

    Complete the visa application form

    Fill out the official Schengen visa application form online or by hand.

  3. 3

    Book an appointment at the BLS International visa centre or embassy

    Appointments are mandatory for biometric data collection.

  4. 4

    Pay the visa fee

    Pay the €80 government fee plus any service fee (approx. €30) at the centre.

  5. 5

    Attend the appointment and submit documents

    Bring all required documents, original passport, and photographs. Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) will be taken.

  6. 6

    Wait for processing

    Processing typically takes 15 to 45 calendar days.

  7. 7

    Collect passport with decision

    You will be notified when your passport is ready for collection at the centre or by courier.

Documents checklist

Identity

  • Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years)

    Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area.

  • Completed and signed Schengen visa application form

    Download from the embassy website or BLS portal.

  • Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45 mm, white background)

    Must meet ICAO standards.

  • Copy of passport data page

    Clear photocopy.

Travel

  • Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward ticket)

    Confirmed reservation showing entry and exit from Schengen area.

  • Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)

    Valid for the entire Schengen area and duration of stay.

  • Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)

    For the entire stay in Spain.

  • Travel itinerary (detailed day-by-day plan)

    Optional

    Optional but recommended for clarity.

Financial

  • Bank statements (last 3 months)

    Must show sufficient funds for the trip.

Employment

  • Employment letter or proof of occupation

    Include salary details and approved leave dates.

Supporting

  • Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, etc.)

    Optional

    If applicable.

  • Previous Schengen visas (copies)

    Optional

    If you have traveled to Schengen before.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €100 per day of stay

  • Bank statements (last 3 months)
  • Sponsorship letter if applicable

Bank statements must be original or certified copies.

Good to know

  • Visa does not guarantee entry; final decision is made by border authorities.
  • Processing times may be longer during peak seasons.
  • Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear source of income

Provide clear bank statements and a sponsorship letter if needed.

Missing or incorrect documents

Double-check the checklist on the embassy website before appointment.

Previous visa violations or overstay in Schengen area

Ensure compliance with all previous visa conditions.

FAQ

Do citizens of the Gambia need a visa for Spain?

Citizens of the Gambia need a visa for Spain and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa (Short-Stay).

How long can citizens of the Gambia stay in Spain?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Spain visa cost for citizens of the Gambia?

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

How long does Spain visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of the Gambia need for Spain?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years); Completed and signed Schengen visa application form; Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45 mm, white background); Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward ticket); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter); and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Spain?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/banjul/en/ServiciosConsulares/Paginas/Consular/Visados.aspx

Sources

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