One common question we receive from applicants is whether you need to stay in Spain during the digital nomad visa application process. The answer depends on your specific situation and the type of visa you’re applying for. Here’s a guide to help clarify the requirements and options available to you.
1. Single-Entry Schengen Visa: Staying in Spain Until Approval
If you travel to Spain on a single-entry Schengen tourist visa, you will need to stay in Spain until you receive approval for your visa application. Why? Because leaving Spain on a single-entry visa would prevent you from returning without reapplying for another Schengen visa. This can be a restrictive situation, so it’s important to plan accordingly if you’re using a single-entry visa.
Even if you have a single-entry Schengen visa, there is still some flexibility. You can submit your application while in Spain and then travel within the Schengen area. However, you must return to Spain before your tourist visa expires to await the final decision.
2. Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa: Flexibility to Leave and Return
A multiple-entry Schengen visa offers much more flexibility. With this visa, you can fly to Spain, submit your application during a short stay (e.g., 3-5 days), and then return to your home country or travel around Europe while waiting for your visa decision. You just need to ensure that you’re back in Spain before your visa expires to complete any further required steps.
3. Visa-Free Entry: Flexibility to Leave and Return
The same rules apply to those coming from countries who do not need Schengen visas to enter Spain (e.g. nationals from the U.S., U.K., Australia). With this visa, you can fly to Spain, submit your application during a short stay (e.g., 3-5 days), and then return to your home country or travel around Europe while waiting for your visa decision. You just need to ensure that you’re back in Spain before your visa expires to complete any further required steps.
4. What Happens After Residence Approval if Your Schengen Visa Expires?
If your Schengen visa expires after your residence authorization has been approved, or you have stayed for over ninety (90) days for those coming from countries not needing a Schengen visa, but before you receive your residence card (TIE), you may encounter travel challenges. Here are your options:
- Wait for Your TIE: The safest option is to wait in Spain until you receive your residence card. This process involves booking an appointment for fingerprinting, submitting your documents, and then returning 30-40 days later to pick up the card. While flying out of Spain without the TIE is generally not an issue, re-entering Spain could be problematic.
- Autorización de Regreso: If you can’t wait for your TIE, you can apply for an Autorización de Regreso. This document is available after you’ve booked and attended your TIE fingerprinting appointment. It allows you to travel outside of Spain and return within 90 days, even without a valid Schengen visa. However, you must fly directly into a Spanish port or airport when returning—this document cannot be used to enter Spain via another Schengen country.
5. How Long Do You Need to Be in Spain to Submit the Application?
If you’re applying through a representative, technically, you only need to be in Spain for one (1) day to submit your application. However, due to potential system delays or issues, we recommend staying for at least three (3) days to ensure everything is processed smoothly.
Need Help With Submitting Your Visa Application?
The visa application process can be complex, especially when juggling travel plans, visa restrictions, and application requirements. If you need assistance with submissions or navigating the process, our team is here to help. Contact us for expert support and guidance to ensure your visa application goes as smoothly as possible!
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