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What are the requirements to travel to Spain from the USA?
Discover the requirements to travel to Spain from the USA. Do you need a visa? Medical insurance? We tell you everything you need to know.
Imagine arriving at Madrid or Barcelona airport and being told you do not meet the requirements to travel to Spain from the USA. It happens more often than you think. Spain may not be the strictest country, but it is important to know exactly what documents you will need. Showing up without the right paperwork can turn a simple entry into a stressful experience. Even travelers who believe everything is in order can face difficult questions at passport control.
To help you plan your adventure, we’ve put together a detailed guide on everything you need to know before boarding your flight. Are any vaccines required to enter Spain? What kind of travel or health insurance do you need? Do you need a visa? Beyond answering these questions and more, we’ll also share a few tips to make sure you have everything covered. Follow along as we go through the paperwork so you can move on to the fun part: planning your itinerary.
A tip before going over the requirements
Before we dive into the step-by-step requirements for traveling to Spain from the USA, we want to share a quick tip that can make your trip much smoother. While it’s not mandatory, having internet from the moment you arrive will make exploring Spain so much easier. Being able to access maps, confirm accommodation bookings, or order an Uber without relying on airport Wi-Fi is a real game changer.
If you’re traveling to Spain for just a few days or weeks, an eSIM is worth considering. It’s one of the most convenient and cost-effective options. With unlimited data, you won’t have to worry about running out of internet during your trip. Plus, activation is instant: you select the number of days you need and you’re online as soon as you land, starting at $6.90 per day.
If you’re thinking of spending a longer time in Spain or hopping around other European countries, Holafly’s monthly plans might be a smarter choice. You can pick the option that best matches your data needs, and you’ll be able to stay connected on all your devices wherever you go.
Both options can be set up in just a few minutes, even before leaving the United States. That way, you’ll arrive in Spain already connected, without having to hunt down a physical SIM card or rely on airport or café Wi-Fi.
That said, let’s move on to today’s topic: the requirements you must meet to travel to Spain without any problems.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
1. Tourist, residence, or work visas for Spain
If you have a U.S. passport, you can visit Spain without a visa, as long as your stay is under 90 days. But if you’re planning to work, study, or move there, you’ll need to apply for the right type of permit before you go. Some of the most common visa options for Americans traveling to Spain are:
1. 1. Permits for tourism or business (up to 90 days)
As mentioned earlier, if your trip is short and under 90 days, you won’t need a visa. However, you will need to apply for ETIAS authorization before you fly. This approval covers leisure trips, business meetings, and short-term stays in Spain.
1. 2. Student visas
If you’ve been accepted to a university or educational program in Spain that lasts more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a student visa (Type D). To get it, you’ll have to provide proof of the following:
- Acceptance letter from the educational institution.
- Medical insurance with coverage in Spain.
- Adequate financial means to cover the stay.
If this applies to you, once you arrive in Spain you’ll need to register with the Immigration Office and apply for a Foreign Identity Card (TIE), which will serve as your official ID while you’re in the country.
1.3. Work visas
If you intend to work in Spain, you will need a specific visa depending on the type of employment:
- Work visa for employees: Employees with a contract from a Spanish company.
- Self-employed work visa: If you wish to start a business or work as a freelancer in Spain.
- Digital nomad visa for Spain: It allows remote professionals to work from anywhere in the country without needing a local employer.
The application process varies depending on the case, but in general, you are required to provide proof of a job offer, financial solvency, and health insurance.
1.4. Residence visas
Are you planning to live in Spain for an extended period of time? You will need a residence visa. The most common types include:
- Non-profit residence: For those who wish to live in Spain without working but can prove sufficient income.
- Residence through investment (Golden Visa): For those who invest in Spanish real estate or businesses.
- Residence through family reunification: If you have immediate family members with legal residence in Spain.
In all these situations, you’ll need to apply for your visa before traveling at the corresponding Spanish consulate. Keep in mind that processing can take several weeks or even months, so it’s best to start your application at least three months in advance.
One important thing to keep in mind is that you should not be tempted to stay past the 90 days allowed for tourists. It might seem harmless, but overstaying can lead to fines, legal trouble, or even being banned from entering Spain in the future.
2. Passport – one of the requirements for traveling to Spain from the USA
Let us move on to one of the most obvious yet important requirements to travel to Spain from the USA. As with any international trip, you will need a valid passport, and without it you will not even be able to board your flight. However, not every passport will work. It must meet certain conditions to avoid problems at immigration.
What requirements must your passport meet?
- It must be biometric or electronic: All passports issued in the United States meet this requirement, but if yours is an older one, it is best to check it before you travel.
- Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from Spain. Most of the time, this is not checked too closely, but some immigration officers can be strict about it.
- It must have been issued within the last ten years. Even if your passport looks fine, if it is too old, border officials might not accept it.
If your passport is close to expiring or does not meet these requirements, it is best to renew it before you travel. You can do this at any passport agency in the United States, but keep in mind that the process can take several weeks.
If you are traveling with children, keep in mind that kids’ passports are valid for a shorter period. In some cases, you may also be asked to provide extra documents or a consent letter if the child is traveling with only one parent.
3. ETIAS – mandatory authorization to travel to Spain
Even if you do not need a visa, starting in 2025 U.S. citizens traveling to Spain will need to obtain ETIAS authorization (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before flying. Without it, you will not be allowed to board your flight.
What is ETIAS and how does it work?
It is an electronic travel authorization similar to the U.S. ESTA, created for visitors from countries that do not require a visa. It is not a visa itself, but it is mandatory for entry into Spain and other Schengen countries.
Steps to obtain ETIAS
- Complete the online application: On the official ETIAS website at least 72 hours before your flight.
- Pay the corresponding fee: ETIAS costs $10 and can be paid by credit or debit card.
- Wait for confirmation: Authorization is usually approved within minutes, but in some cases it can take up to 96 hours.
- Receive the approval in your email: Once approved, it is electronically linked to your passport.
How long is ETIAS valid for?
- Valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
- Allows multiple entries into Spain and other Schengen countries.
- Does not authorize stays longer than 90 days within a 180-day period.
If you do not complete the ETIAS process, you will not be allowed to board your flight. It cannot be obtained upon arrival in Spain, so it is important to apply for it in advance to avoid any problems.
4. Pass immigration control in Spain
Perfect, you have your visa and your passport ready. But what should you expect when you arrive in Spain? If you have heard of travelers being stopped at immigration, you know that having the right documents is not always enough. You also need to answer the border officers’ questions and make a good impression.
Getting through immigration in Spain is usually pretty simple, but it really depends on the traveler. If the officer thinks something about your trip does not quite add up or you seem unsure about your plans, you may be asked a few extra questions or, in the worst case, be denied entry.
What questions might you be asked at immigration?
- What is the reason for your trip? You must clearly explain whether you are traveling for tourism, business, study, or work.
- How long do you plan to stay in Spain? Make sure your answer matches the length of stay on your ETIAS or visa.
- Where will you be staying? They may ask you for the exact address and confirmation of your reservation.
- Do you have sufficient financial means? In some cases, you may be asked to provide proof of financial solvency.
- Do you have a return ticket? If you are traveling without a visa, the key is to prove that you will leave Spain before the 90 days allowed.
If you answer confidently and have all your documents in order, you should be fine. Keep in mind that the immigration officer has the final say, so it is best to be well prepared to avoid any complications.
5. Medical insurance for traveling to Spain
This requirement does not apply to those traveling as tourists. However, if you are going to spend time in the country on a visa, it could be an essential requirement.
When is it mandatory?
- If you are traveling on a study, work, or residence visa: In these cases, you must have health insurance for foreign visitors in Spain with a minimum coverage of about $32,000.
- If you are traveling with ETIAS, health insurance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Spain has an excellent public healthcare system, but it does not cover visitors, and even a simple medical visit can be expensive.
Other tips for traveling to Spain
With these five points, we have covered all the main requirements to travel to Spain from the USA. Still, there are a few extra details that, while not mandatory, can make a big difference in your trip. Paying attention to them will make things easier and help you avoid unpleasant surprises along the way. So, what else should you keep in mind as you get ready for your adventure in Spain?
1. Travel insurance for Spain
As mentioned earlier, if you are traveling on a student, work, or residence visa, health insurance is mandatory. But what if you are visiting as a tourist? Even though it is not required at the border, traveling without coverage can be a big mistake.
Why is it a good idea? Because even though Spain has an excellent healthcare system, travelers do not have free access to public medical services. A visit to a private clinic can cost anywhere from $108–325, and an emergency hospital stay can easily exceed $3,250.
What should good travel insurance for Spain include?
- As with medical insurance, you will need comprehensive health coverage (minimum $35,000).
- Emergency assistance, including repatriation.
- Coverage for cancellations and lost luggage.
If you are not sure which one to choose, take a look at our article on the best travel insurance for Spain. There we compare different options based on length of stay, price, and coverage.
2. Driver’s license in Spain
If you are planning to rent a car while in Spain, you will be glad to know that you can drive with your U.S. license. There are, however, a few conditions. For short stays of up to six months, your license will be valid. If you plan to stay longer, you will need to complete an additional process.
We recommend getting an International Driving Permit before your trip. Most rental companies will let you rent a car without it, but having one can save you a lot of hassle if you are pulled over or have an accident. It is affordable, easy to apply for, and you can get it in the United States before you travel.
If you are planning to stay in Spain for a longer period and want to be able to drive, you will need to exchange your U.S. license for a Spanish one. To do so, you must visit the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) and provide your passport, your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number), a translated copy of your driver’s license, and a medical certificate proving you are fit to drive. The process can take some time, so it is best to start it well in advance.
3. Cards, cash, and payment methods in Spain
Do you need to bring cash when traveling to Spain or can you pay for everything by card? For the most part you will have no trouble using your card. Restaurants, supermarkets, shops, and public transport all accept electronic payments. Still, there are a few places where cash is preferred.
In local markets, small bars, or rural areas, it is common for places to accept only cash. To avoid any inconvenience, it is a good idea to carry at least $55–110 in small bills with you.
Another important point is to check with your bank before traveling to see if they charge fees for currency exchange or foreign transactions. Some cards add a 3% to 5% surcharge on each purchase, which can quickly add up. To avoid this, consider alternatives like Revolut, N26, or Wise, which let you pay in euros without extra fees.
If you plan to stay in Spain for a longer period, you might want to open a local bank account. It is not difficult and makes managing payments easier, without worrying about currency exchange or extra fees. Some of the best banks for foreigners, such as BBVA, Santander, or CaixaBank, offer accounts with very flexible terms.
4. Recommended vaccinations for traveling to Spain
Travelers arriving from the United States do not need any mandatory vaccines to enter Spain. However, experts recommend keeping basic vaccinations up to date, especially if you plan to spend time in crowded areas or stay for an extended period.
Recommended vaccinations include:
- Tetanus and diphtheria: Important if you plan to go hiking or do outdoor activities.
- Influenza (flu): Especially in fall and winter, when infections increase.
- Hepatitis A and B: Recommended if you will be in contact with many people in enclosed spaces.
5. Address of accommodation in Spain
Do you already know where you will be staying in Spain? It might seem like an obvious question, but immigration authorities could ask for this information when you arrive. If you do not have a clear answer or cannot show proof of your accommodation, you may face extra questions or, in some cases, be denied entry.
When is it mandatory to provide an accommodation address?
- If you are traveling with ETIAS: On the application form, you will need to provide your accommodation details. Even though it is not always checked, it is a good idea to carry a copy of your booking with you.
- If you are traveling with a study, work, or residence visa: In these situations, it is essential to have a registered address, whether it is a rental, a university residence, or a family member’s home.
- If you are traveling for tourism: Even if immigration does not always ask for it, having a confirmation of your hotel or Airbnb booking can make the process at the airport much smoother.
Having this information ready will help you avoid issues at immigration and make your entry into Spain much smoother. If your trip includes multiple destinations within the country, it is best to have a list of all the places where you will be staying.
6. Sufficient financial means to travel to Spain
Could you be denied entry to Spain if you cannot prove you have enough money to cover your stay? Yes. While it is not always requested, immigration officers may ask for proof of financial means, especially if you are traveling without a visa and plan to stay for the full 90 days allowed under ETIAS.
How much money do you need to enter Spain?
As of 2025, the minimum required is $122 per day, with a total minimum of $1,100 for short stays. This means that even if you are traveling for just a week, you will need to show that you have at least $1,170 available.
How can you prove financial solvency?
If immigration officials ask for proof, you can show:
- Cash in euros or dollars.
- Recent bank statements showing sufficient funds.
- International credit or debit cards with an up-to-date account statement.
- Invitation letter from a resident of Spain who will be responsible for your maintenance (only if applicable).
- Proof of your scholarship to study in Spain.
They do not always ask for this documentation, but if your profile raises questions or your trip is long, you may be required to show it. It is best to have clear proof on hand to avoid any issues at the border.
Frequently asked questions about requirements for traveling to Spain from the USA
If you are traveling as a tourist for less than 90 days, a visa is not required to enter Spain from the United States. Spain is part of the Schengen Area, and U.S. citizens can visit without a visa for this period. Starting in 2025, however, it will be mandatory to obtain ETIAS, an electronic travel authorization that must be applied for online before your trip.
Up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you need to stay longer, you will need to apply for a specific visa, such as a student, work, or residence visa.
Yes, it is possible. While it is not always requested, immigration authorities may ask you to show that you have enough funds for your trip. The recommended amount is at least $115 per day.
Starting in 2025, ETIAS will be mandatory and must be applied for online. To get it, you will need to fill out a form on the official website, pay a 7-euro fee ($10), and wait for approval, which is usually quick. The authorization will be valid for three years and allows multiple entries into Spain.
There are no mandatory vaccines for travelers coming from the United States. However, health experts recommend that you stay up to date on the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella), as well as tetanus and the flu shot if you are traveling during flu season.
One of the key requirements for traveling to Spain from the United States is having a valid passport. Make sure it will remain valid for your entire stay. If it is nearing expiration, it is best to renew it before your trip.
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Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍
