Spain is a beautiful country situated on the Mediterranean coast of Europe. Many Pakistanis live in Spain as expatriates. The city of Barcelona is particularly popular among the Pakistani community, which is why numerous Pakistani travelers wish to visit Spain to experience its vibrant culture and rich history. This blog will provide a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Spanish visa in Pakistan.
Types of Spain Visas in Pakistan
The Spanish Embassy in Pakistan is located in Islamabad and issues the following categories of visas to Pakistani citizens, as well as Afghan citizens visiting Pakistan to apply for Spanish visas:
- Tourist Schengen Visa
- Work Visa for Spain
- Business Visa for Spain
- Humanitarian Visa for Spain
- Official Visit Visa
- Family Reunion Visa
Although there are many types of visas, for simplicity, this guide will focus on the short-term Spain visa, commonly applied for by individuals who wish to visit Spain for tourism purposes. This visa is also known as a short-term Schengen visa.
What is a Spain Schengen Visa?
Spain is part of the broader Schengen Area, where a single visa is issued by 27 countries from the European Union. This visa allows you to visit the entire region of 27 countries, including Spain and other EU countries such as Switzerland. Therefore, when Spain issues a Schengen visa, it is valid for travel within Spain as well as other countries in the European Union.
According to Schengen visa rules, you should apply to the country that is your main destination in the Schengen Area. If you are unsure which country is your main destination, you should apply to the country where you will spend the most time. For example, if you plan to visit both Spain and Germany, spending 7 days in Spain and 3 days in Germany, then Spain is your main destination. Consequently, you should apply for a Schengen visa through the Spanish Embassy in Islamabad.
How to Apply for Spain Visa in Pakistan?
Now, let’s discuss how to apply for a Spain visa in Pakistan. The first step is to secure a visa appointment for your application and then prepare your documents for submission to the visa application center in Pakistan. The Spanish visa application process is managed by a third-party company called BLS International. This outsourcing company will validate and process your application before submitting it to the Spanish embassy in Islamabad.
To begin, please visit the BLS International website and apply for an appointment. If you are traveling to Spain for tourism, you should book a short-term Schengen visa appointment. Additionally, make sure to read the information on the website related to Spanish visas in Pakistan.
Documents Required for Spain Visa in Pakistan
After securing your appointment for a Spain visa in Pakistan, the next step is to gather all the required documents and prepare your application. Below is the complete list of documents you need to submit with your application on the date of your appointment at the BLS International visa application center.
- Schengen visa application Form: Duly filled in and signed by the applicant. All questions must be answered; otherwise, your application will not be accepted. Both parents (or legal guardians, if applicable) must sign the application for minors.
- Two recent color passport-size photos: These should have white backgrounds (gentlemen with uncovered heads) and must be glued to the application form.
- Original and photocopy of passport or official travel document:
– Pakistani nationals: Photocopy of the page with personal data (and other relevant pages) and previous visas.
– Non-Pakistani nationals: Photocopy of pages with personal data (and other relevant pages), previous visas, and the Pakistani residence visa.
– All passports must have been issued within the last 10 years and should be valid for at least 3 months beyond the validity of the visa applied for. - Visa fee: €80 for adults, €40 for children.
- Photocopy of your Medical Insurance: This must cover at least €30,000, including repatriation from any Schengen State in case of emergency. The medical insurance must cover your entire stay in all Schengen States.
- Copy of Pakistani identity card (CNIC)
– For non-Pakistani nationals: Proof of legal residence in Pakistan (e.g. long-stay visa, residence, or work permit). - Flight reservation of a return round trip ticket from/to Pakistan and the Member State of destination.
– If your trip includes multiple stops within the Schengen Area, provide reservations for the intra-Schengen itinerary (train, flights, car rental). - Reservation of accommodation for the entire duration of your stay (hotel, holiday home, camping, youth hostel).
– If staying with family, friends, or a sponsor, provide proof of sponsorship and/or private accommodation. Some Member States may require official forms for proof of sponsorship or private accommodation. - Family Registration Certificate (FRC): Issued in English by NADRA (Pakistan National Database and Registration Authority). Some Member States may require additional information in their own prescribed format.
- Bank statements: Showing movements in the last six months, duly signed and stamped by the bank.
- National Tax Number Certificate (or proof of exemption if applicable) and
- Federal Board of Revenue acknowledgment of tax returns for the last two fiscal years before the application date.
- Other proof of income-generating assets or other means of subsistence as applicable, supported by documents.
- Pay slips for the last three months before the application date.
- Copy of the employment contract.
- Employer’s letter: Stating approval for a leave of absence, specifying dates of absence, position, and salary of the employee, duration of employment, purpose of absence, and contact number of the employer.
- If the applicant is a company owner or self-employed: Certificate of registration of the company and Chamber of Commerce certificate.
- If the applicant is a civil servant/government employee: Non-Objection Certificate (NOC) issued by the administration/public service employing the applicant, stating the dates of the intended visit (for travel other than official purposes).
- If the applicant is retired: Pension statements for the last six months.
- If the applicant is sponsored: Proof of sponsorship. Some Member States may require official forms for proof of sponsorship.
- If the applicant is a student: Proof of enrollment at the university and student card.
These are the required documents for Spain’s visitor visa for different types of applicants. However, if your purpose is different, such as applying for a business visa, you will need to provide additional documents, like business documents and possibly an invitation letter from Spain.
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Processing Time for a Spain Visa in Pakistan
The processing time for a Spain Schengen visa in Pakistan is approximately 15 calendar days. However, it is advised to apply at least one month before your planned trip to the Schengen Area. Occasionally, the visa process may take longer due to missing documents or if the embassy decides to invite the applicant for an interview. You can always track your Spain visa application on the BLS International website.
To avoid rejection and delays in your application, always provide complete documents and a proper application. You can expedite your application process by ensuring all required documents are submitted at the time of visa submission.
Best Tips for a Spain Visa in Pakistan
It is always advisable to apply in good faith and honestly provide all the necessary documents and information. Lying on your application can create problems for you in the future. Additionally, avoid submitting too many documents; only provide those required for visa processing. For instance, property and car documents are not necessary.
Include a clear and concise travel plan in your cover letter and keep things simple. If this is your first Schengen visa, limit your application to one or two Schengen countries. Including too many countries can make it harder to obtain a visa. Plan a short trip of 7 to 10 days and provide proof of paid hotel bookings and some paid package tours. These bookings can be canceled if your visa is rejected, so make sure to book hotels and tours that offer free cancellation.
Don’t be afraid to tell the truth. Always mention any previous visa rejections or any issues that have occurred in the past. This demonstrates your trustworthiness and honesty. Hiding information may cause the visa officer to doubt your credibility for future visas.
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