Do I Need ETIAS for Spain? A Complete Guide for Travelers

Spain is one of the most popular destinations in the world when it comes to international travel. From its delicious seafood and sunny coastlines to its rich history, fantastic wine, and amazing music – it’s easy to see why Spain is so famous!

However, with recent updates to European travel requirements, understanding what you need and what you don’t can feel a bit complex. We’re here to help.

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about ETIAS and how it applies to your upcoming visit to Barcelona, Madrid, or wherever it is you’re off to in this friendly country!

Do I need ETIAS to visit Spain?

Yes, if you do not have a valid Schengen visa or are not a citizen of a Schengen country, you will be required to get ETIAS authorization before traveling to Spain (from 2025 on). 

This includes citizens from the US, UK, Mexico, Canada, Australia, and more. 

ETIAS isn’t a visa – it is approval to enter a country in the Schengen zone. 

Travelers who are not from visa-exempt countries, such as citizens of India, China, Russia, and others, do not need to apply for ETIAS, but still must apply for a Schengen visa. If you’re a citizen of one of these countries, the application process remains the same. 

Do I need ETIAS if I have a Spain visa?

No. You don’t need to apply for ETIAS If you hold a valid visa for Spain (or a Schengen visa). Travelers need either ETIAS or a visa, but not both.

How to apply for ETIAS for Spain

Applying for an ETIAS for your upcoming travels to Spain is done entirely online! It should only take you a few minutes. 

To get your ETIAS authorization for Spain, you’ll need to follow a few simple steps: 

• Fill out the form on ETIAS. Some of the information required will be your name, passport number, and details about your travel plans. 
• Answer a few questions about your personal history. According to the official European Union website, you’ll be asked to share your parents’ first names, current occupation, and level of education. You’ll also be asked about any past criminal convictions.

• Pay a fee: There is a small application fee for your ETIAS authorization that can be paid using debit or credit (you can expect to pay 7 euros).
• Wait for your approval: ETIAS approval is usually immediate or happens in just a couple of minutes. Keep in mind that, while uncommon, approval can take up to 30 days, so plan accordingly. 
• Travel to Spain!: Your ETIAS authorization will be automatically linked to your passport once approved, for authorities to see. However, it never hurts to print out your approval, just in case. 

Your ETIAS is valid for up to three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. 

What happens if my ETIAS for Spain is denied? 

If your ETIAS is denied, you’ll receive an official email outlining the reason(s). In this email, you’ll also be given instructions on how to appeal the decision if you believe it was unfairly made. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to travel to Spain without ETIAS approval.

If I get an ETIAS for Spain, can I travel to other Schengen countries with it?

According to the EU website, a valid ETIAS permits you to travel throughout the Schengen area and Cyprus. 

With that being said, it does not guarantee entry. Border guards can still deny you entry into other Schengen countries.

ETIAS for Spain: What to Know

• ETIAS is required for visitors to Spain who do not have a Schengen visa/passport from 2025 on. 
• The ETIAS application is online and only takes a few minutes. 
• Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first.
• Spanish/Schengen country citizens and do not need ETIAS.
• Current Spain visa holders do not need ETIAS.
• The ETIAS application costs 7 euros (but is free for those under the age of 18 or over 70).
• ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization that permits you to enter a Schengen country. 
• ETIAS is valid for travel by air, land, or sea. 
• ETIAS permits you to enter any Schengen country and Cyprus, but entry isn’t guaranteed and will be decided by local border guards. 
• You can appeal a denied ETIAS application. 
• US citizens need ETIAS to travel to Spain from 2025 on.
• UK citizens need ETIAS to travel to Spain from 2025 on.
• Approval is usually immediate but can take up to 30 days, so plan accordingly.
• Your approval is automatically (digitally) linked to your passport. You don’t need to print out anything.