---
title: Spain visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Spain and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €90. Processing: 15–45 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/spain/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Spain visa for citizens of South Africa

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

*Verified · last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

Official application site: https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/pretoria/en/ServiciosConsulares/Paginas/Visados.aspx

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Embassy / VFS · Schengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days)
- **How to apply:** In-person at an embassy or visa center
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 90 days
- **Entries:** Multiple entry
- **Processing time:** 15–45 days
- **Government fee:** €90
- **Passport validity:** At least 3 months
- **Biometrics:** Required
- **Appointment:** Required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required
- **Proof of funds:** Bank statements for last 3 months

## How to apply

1. **Prepare the required documents** — Gather all documents listed above, ensuring passport validity and photo standards.
2. **Complete the online visa application form** — Fill the Schengen application form on the Spanish consulate's website.
3. **Book an appointment at the Spanish consulate or VFS Global centre** — Appointment required for submitting application and biometrics.
4. **Submit application and biometrics in person** — Bring all original documents and copies to the appointment.
5. **Pay the visa fee** — Pay the €80 fee at the time of submission (or via bank transfer as instructed).
6. **Wait for processing** — Processing takes 15 to 30 calendar days from submission.
7. **Collect your passport** — Pick up your passport from the centre or opt for courier delivery (if available).

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport (2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area)** (Travel): Must be original and include copies of previous Schengen visas.
- **Completed and signed Schengen visa application form** (Travel): Form must be filled online and printed.
- **Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background)** (Travel): Must meet ICAO standards.
- **Round-trip flight itinerary** (Travel): Confirmed reservation or booking.
- **Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage, valid throughout Schengen area)** (Travel): Must be purchased from an approved provider.
- **Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)** (Travel): For entire stay.
- **Bank statements for last 3 months** (Financial): Showing sufficient funds (approx. €90 per day of stay).
- **Employment letter or leave approval (for employees)** (Employment): Must be recent and state position, salary, and approval of leave.
- **Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children if applicable)** (Supporting, optional): Only if traveling with family.
- **Visa fee receipt** (Financial): Payable at VFS Global or consulate.

## Proof of funds

- **Minimum balance:** Approximately €90 per day of stay
- Bank statements for last 3 months

Bank statements must be original and stamped by the bank.

## Good to know

- Incomplete or incorrect forms may delay processing.
- Biometrics are required every 5 years for Schengen visas.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Insufficient funds or unclear source of income** — Provide clear bank statements showing sufficient balance and salary deposits.
- **Invalid or expired passport** — Ensure passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure date.
- **Missing travel health insurance** — Purchase insurance that meets Schengen requirements before applying.
- **Previous visa overstay or immigration violations** — Comply with all visa conditions in previous travels.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Spain?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Spain and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days).

### How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Spain?

Up to 90 days.

### How much does the Spain visa cost for citizens of South Africa?

Government fee: €90.

### How long does Spain visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

### What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Spain?

Valid passport (2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area); Completed and signed Schengen visa application form; Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background); Round-trip flight itinerary; Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage, valid throughout Schengen area); Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter); and 4 more.

### How long must my passport be valid for Spain?

At least 3 months.

### Where do I apply?

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

## Sources

- [exteriores.gob.es](https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/pretoria/en/ServiciosConsulares/Paginas/Visados.aspx)

## More

- [Spain visa for every passport](/visa/spain)
- [Every destination for South Africa passport holders](/visa/passport/south-africa)