What Is a Type D Visa for Spain?
The Type D visa (also known as the national visa) allows non-EU citizens to stay in Spain for more than 90 days for various purposes, such as:
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👨🎓 Studying in Spain
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👵 Retiring (Non-Lucrative Visa)
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💼 Working or running a business
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👨👩👧👦 Family reunification
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🧳 Moving as a digital nomad or entrepreneur
Once approved, this visa allows you to enter Spain and apply for a residence permit (TIE) within 30 days.
🧭 Who Needs a Type D Visa?
You need a Type D visa if you are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national and plan to live in Spain for over 90 days. Citizens of countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, South Africa, India, and others must apply.
📋 Common Types of Type D Visas
| Visa Type | Description |
|---|---|
| 🏡 Non-Lucrative Visa | Ideal for retirees or people living from passive income |
| 💻 Digital Nomad Visa | For remote workers or freelancers with foreign income |
| 👨👩👧 Family Reunification Visa | For joining a spouse or family member legally living in Spain |
| 💼 Work Visa | For those with a job offer in Spain |
| 🎓 Student Visa | For studying or internships longer than 90 days |
| 🚀 Entrepreneur Visa | For launching a startup or innovative business |
📑 Type D Visa Requirements
Requirements vary slightly depending on the visa subtype, but generally include:
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✅ Valid passport
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✅ Completed visa application forms
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✅ Passport-size photos
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✅ Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements, pensions, salary)
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✅ Private health insurance
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✅ Medical certificate
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✅ Police clearance certificate (criminal background check)
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✅ Proof of accommodation in Spain
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✅ Visa fee payment receipt
Note: Documents not in Spanish must be officially translated and apostilled.
🕐 How Long Does It Take?
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🕓 Processing time: 15 to 60 days
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🗓️ Apply at least 3 months before your intended arrival date
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🛬 Once approved, you must enter Spain within the validity period (usually 90 days)
After arrival, you must:
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Apply for your TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero)
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Register with the local town hall (empadronamiento)
🧾 Where to Apply
You must apply at the Spanish Consulate or Embassy in your home country or country of legal residence. You cannot apply for a Type D visa while already in Spain on a tourist visa.
⚖️ Legal Help for Your Spanish Type D Visa
Navigating Spain’s immigration system can be confusing. We provide:
✅ Full visa application assistance
✅ Legal translations and certified document preparation
✅ Tax and residency planning
✅ NIE number and TIE card processing
✅ Family or dependent applications
✨ Ready to Start Your New Life in Spain?
Whether you’re retiring, working remotely, or reuniting with family, the Type D visa is your first step. Let our immigration lawyers handle the process for you—so you can focus on your future in Spain.