Visa Policies

1. Saudi Arabia

Visa Policies of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has various visa policies depending on the purpose of travel, nationality, and entry requirements. Here’s an overview of the key policies:

1. Visa Types

  • Tourist Visa: Introduced in 2019, this visa allows visitors to explore the Kingdom for leisure and cultural experiences.
  • Business Visa: Issued for business meetings, conferences, and professional activities.
  • Employment Visa: Granted to individuals with a confirmed job offer in Saudi Arabia.
  • Residence Visa: For expatriates moving to Saudi Arabia for work, study, or family reunification.
  • Hajj and Umrah Visa: Specifically issued to pilgrims visiting Mecca and Medina for religious purposes.

2. Tourist eVisa and Visa on Arrival

  • Citizens of eligible countries can apply for an eVisa online or obtain a Visa on Arrival.
  • The Tourist eVisa is a multiple-entry visa valid for one year, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit.
  • Eligible countries include European Union nations, the US, Canada, Australia, and selected Asian countries.

3. Visa Restrictions for Certain Countries

  • As of 2025, Saudi Arabia has restricted travelers from 14 countries, including Pakistan, to single-entry visas.
  • This restriction aims to prevent unauthorized Hajj pilgrims and manage crowd control.

4. Visa Exemptions

  • Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries do not require a visa and can enter Saudi Arabia using their national ID cards.

5. Entry Requirements

  • All visitors must have a passport valid for at least six months.
  • Residents (Iqama holders) must carry their residency permit at all times.

6. Recent Updates

  • Saudi Arabia is expanding its eVisa program to include more countries.
  • In 2023 and 2024, several new nations were added to the list of eligible countries for tourist and business eVisas.

For the latest visa policies, travelers should check with the official Saudi visa portal or contact the nearest Saudi embassy or consulate.

2. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

 
Visa Policies of the UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a structured visa system catering to different travel purposes, including tourism, business, employment, and long-term residency. Below is a detailed overview of UAE visa policies.

1. Tourist Visas

  • 30-Day Tourist Visa: Allows travelers to stay in the UAE for up to 30 days.
  • 90-Day Tourist Visa: Grants a longer stay of up to 90 days for tourists.

2. Visit Visas

  • Family Visit Visa: Allows UAE residents to sponsor family members for visits.
  • Multi-Entry Visit Visa: A new visa category that permits foreign nationals to visit friends or relatives without requiring a local sponsor. It offers stays of 30, 60, or 90 days.

3. Employment Visa

  • Issued to foreign nationals who have secured a job in the UAE.
  • The employer is responsible for sponsoring the visa.
  • The visa is linked to the employment contract and must be renewed upon expiry.

4. Residence Visas

  • Golden Visa: A long-term residency visa granted to investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, researchers, and outstanding students. It offers residency for up to 10 years.
  • Retirement Visa: Available to retirees aged 55 and above, subject to meeting specific financial criteria.
  • Remote Work Visa (Digital Nomad Visa): Allows foreign professionals to live in the UAE while working remotely for an overseas employer.

5. Special Visa Rules for Pakistani Nationals

  • Police Verification Requirement: Pakistani applicants must obtain a police clearance certificate as part of their visa application process.
  • Pre-Approval Document: Before applying for a UAE visa at the UAE Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistani travelers must secure a visa pre-approval document from an authorized travel agent.

6. Entry Requirements

  • A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
  • Medical insurance coverage for the entire stay in the UAE.

7. Recent Developments

  • Expansion of digital nomad visas to attract remote workers.
  • Introduction of new multi-entry visit visas for greater flexibility.

For the latest visa policies and application details, travelers should refer to official UAE government portals or contact the nearest UAE embassy or consulate.

3. Oman

Visa Policies of Oman

Oman has a well-structured visa policy to accommodate different types of travelers, including tourists, business visitors, and expatriates. Below is a summary of the key visa regulations in Oman.

1. Visa-Free Entry

  • Citizens of 103 countries can enter Oman without a visa for up to 14 days.
  • Travelers must have a return ticket, hotel reservation, health insurance, and proof of sufficient funds.
  • If staying longer than 14 days, visitors must apply for an eVisa.

2. Electronic Visa (eVisa)

  • Travelers from eligible countries can apply for an eVisa online.
  • Single-entry eVisa: Valid for 10 or 30 days.
  • Multiple-entry eVisa: Valid for one year, allowing 30-day stays per visit.
  • Applicants must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

3. Visa on Arrival

  • Oman provides a Visa on Arrival to select nationalities at designated entry points.
  • However, travelers are encouraged to apply for an eVisa in advance for smoother entry.

4. Employment Visa

  • Issued to foreign nationals who secure a job in Oman.
  • Sponsored by an Omani employer.
  • Valid for two years from the date of stamping on the passport.

5. Entry Requirements

  • Passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
  • Travelers must have a return ticket, hotel booking, health insurance, and sufficient funds for their stay.

6. Overstaying Penalties

  • Overstaying a visa in Oman leads to fines and possible detention.
  • The fine is 10 Omani Rials per day, with a maximum of 500 Rials.
  • Visitors must adhere to their visa validity to avoid penalties.

For the latest information, travelers should check with the official Omani visa portal or contact the nearest Omani embassy before planning their visit.

4. Qatar

Visa Policies of Qatar

Qatar has a well-defined visa system that allows different categories of travelers to enter the country, including tourists, business visitors, and transit passengers. Below is a summary of the key visa regulations in Qatar.

1. Visa-Free Entry

  • Eligible Countries: Citizens of over 102 countries can enter Qatar without a visa.
  • Duration of Stay: Depending on nationality, visitors can stay for 30 to 90 days.
  • Requirements: Visitors must have a passport valid for six months, a confirmed return ticket, and proof of accommodation.

2. Visa on Arrival

  • Eligibility: Citizens from select countries can obtain a Visa on Arrival for a fee.
  • Validity: The visa is typically valid for one month.
  • Requirements: Travelers must have a passport valid for at least three months and a return or onward ticket.

3. Transit Visa

  • Available to travelers transiting through Qatar with layovers between 5 and 96 hours.
  • The Transit Visa is free and must be applied for in advance.

4. Business and Work Visas

  • Business Visa: Issued for short-term business visits, meetings, and conferences.
  • Work Visa: Sponsored by a Qatari employer and required for expatriates planning to work in Qatar.
  • Residency Visa: Granted to expatriates with valid job contracts and allows family sponsorship.

5. Entry Requirements

  • Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
  • Accommodation: Visitors must have a confirmed hotel booking or address.
  • Return Ticket: A confirmed return or onward flight ticket is required.

Qatar’s visa policies are subject to updates, so travelers should check with the official Qatari authorities or embassies before planning their visit.

5. United Kingdom (UK)

Visa Policies of the United Kingdom (UK)

The UK has a structured visa system that varies based on the purpose of travel, including tourism, work, study, and settlement. Below is a summary of the key visa policies in the UK.

1. Tourist and Visitor Visas

  • Standard Visitor Visa: Allows travel for tourism, business meetings, or short-term medical treatment.
  • Validity: Usually up to 6 months.
  • Multiple-Entry Option: Frequent travelers can apply for 2, 5, or 10-year multiple-entry visas, but each visit must not exceed 6 months.

2. Work Visas

  • Skilled Worker Visa: For individuals with a job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor license.
  • Health and Care Worker Visa: For healthcare professionals with a job offer in the NHS or care sector.
  • Global Business Mobility Visas: Includes Senior or Specialist Worker Visas for intra-company transfers.
  • Graduate Visa: Allows international students who graduated from a UK institution to stay and work for 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates).
  • Seasonal Worker Visa: For short-term agricultural workers.

3. Study Visas

  • Student Visa: Required for students enrolling in UK educational institutions.
  • Short-Term Study Visa: For courses lasting 6 to 11 months (such as English language courses).
  • Child Student Visa: For students aged 4-17 studying at independent schools.

4. Family and Settlement Visas

  • Spouse/Partner Visa: For individuals married to or in a long-term relationship with a UK citizen or resident.
  • Parent Visa: For parents of a child who is a UK resident or citizen.
  • Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Granted to individuals who have lived in the UK for 5+ years under eligible visa categories.

5. Transit Visas

  • Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV): Required for certain nationalities transiting through a UK airport without entering the UK.
  • Visitor in Transit Visa: Needed for travelers who must pass through UK border control before continuing their journey.

6. Entry Requirements

  • Passport Validity: Must be valid for the duration of the stay.
  • Financial Proof: Travelers may need to provide evidence of sufficient funds for their stay.
  • TB Test Requirement: Some nationalities must undergo a tuberculosis test before applying for a visa.

UK visa policies are updated regularly, so travelers should check the latest requirements before applying.

6. Maldives

Visa Policies of the Maldives

The Maldives has a simple and tourist-friendly visa policy that allows visitors from all countries to enter without requiring a pre-approved visa. Below are the key visa regulations for different types of travelers.

1. Tourist Visa (Visa on Arrival)

  • The Maldives grants a free 30-day visa on arrival to all nationalities.
  • Travelers must have:
    • A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
    • A return or onward ticket.
    • Proof of accommodation booking or sufficient funds for the stay.

2. Visa Extensions

  • The tourist visa can be extended for up to 90 days in total.
  • Extensions must be requested before the original 30-day period expires.

3. Business Visa

  • Issued to foreigners traveling for work-related activities such as meetings, conferences, or trade.
  • Requires sponsorship from a Maldivian company or organization.
  • Validity depends on the duration of the business engagement.

4. Work Visa

  • For foreign nationals who have secured employment in the Maldives.
  • The employer must obtain a work permit before the employee arrives.
  • The visa is initially valid for 90 days, with options for renewal.

5. Dependent Visa

  • Issued to family members of expatriates working in the Maldives.
  • Requires proof of relationship and financial support from the sponsoring individual.

6. Residence Visa

  • Granted to long-term expatriates, investors, or retirees looking to settle in the Maldives.
  • Requires sponsorship and financial eligibility proof.

7. Entry Requirements

  • Health Requirements: Travelers may need to complete a health declaration form before arrival.
  • COVID-19 Guidelines: Any additional restrictions depend on current health regulations.

The Maldives offers one of the most flexible visa policies, making it an attractive destination for travelers, businesspersons, and expatriates.

7. Japan

Visa Policies of Japan

Japan has a structured visa policy that varies depending on the purpose of travel, nationality, and duration of stay. Below are the key visa regulations for travelers to Japan.

1. Visa-Free Entry

  • Citizens of more than 60 countries can enter Japan without a visa for short-term stays.
  • The visa-free stay is generally up to 90 days, depending on nationality.
  • Visitors cannot work under this category but can engage in tourism, business meetings, and short-term study programs.

2. Tourist Visa (Short-Term Stay Visa)

  • Required for nationalities not eligible for visa-free entry.
  • Valid for up to 90 days.
  • Applicants must provide:
    • A valid passport.
    • A detailed travel itinerary.
    • Proof of financial stability.
    • A return or onward flight ticket.

3. Business Visa

  • For individuals attending business meetings, conferences, or short-term work assignments.
  • Requires an invitation letter from a Japanese company.
  • Generally issued for 90 days with single or multiple-entry options.

4. Work Visa

  • Required for foreigners seeking employment in Japan.
  • Sponsored by a Japanese employer.
  • Common categories include:
    • Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services – for skilled professionals.
    • Instructor Visa – for teachers in educational institutions.
    • Entertainer Visa – for artists, musicians, and performers.
    • Skilled Labor Visa – for chefs, craftsmen, and construction workers.
  • Work visas are typically valid for 1 to 5 years.

5. Student Visa

  • Required for foreigners enrolling in Japanese universities, language schools, or vocational institutions.
  • Requires proof of admission from a recognized Japanese institution.
  • Valid for the duration of the course, typically 1 to 4 years.
  • Students can work part-time with special permission.

6. Spouse or Dependent Visa

  • For spouses and children of foreign residents in Japan.
  • Allows dependents to stay as long as the primary visa holder’s status is valid.
  • Dependents can apply for work permission under certain conditions.

7. Permanent Residency Visa

  • Available to foreigners who have lived in Japan for 10+ years (or 1–5 years for special cases).
  • Requires proof of stable income, tax records, and good conduct.

8. Transit Visa

  • Required for travelers from certain countries who are transiting through Japan to another destination.
  • Valid for 15 days.

9. Entry Requirements

  • Passport Validity: Must be valid for the duration of the stay.
  • Health and Security Checks: Visitors may be subject to screening upon arrival.
  • COVID-19 or Other Health Measures: Depending on current policies, additional health declarations or vaccinations may be required.

Japan maintains a strict but efficient visa system, making it essential for travelers to check their eligibility and requirements before applying.

8. Germany

Visa Policies of Germany

Germany follows the Schengen visa system, allowing entry for various purposes, including tourism, business, work, and study. The visa requirements depend on the nationality and the purpose of travel. Below are the key visa regulations for travelers to Germany.

1. Visa-Free Entry

  • Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Schengen Area members can enter and stay in Germany without a visa.
  • Nationals of over 60 non-EU countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and South Korea, can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business.
  • Travelers from visa-exempt countries cannot work without applying for a proper work visa.

2. Schengen Visa (Short-Stay Visa)

  • Required for travelers from non-exempt countries.
  • Allows up to 90 days of stay within a 180-day period for tourism, business, medical visits, or family visits.
  • Valid for travel across all 27 Schengen countries.
  • Requires:
    • Valid passport (minimum 3 months validity beyond stay).
    • Proof of accommodation and travel itinerary.
    • Travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage).
    • Sufficient financial means for the stay.

3. Business Visa

  • For individuals attending business meetings, conferences, or trade fairs.
  • Similar to the Schengen Visa but requires an invitation letter from a German company.

4. Work Visa

  • Required for foreigners planning to work in Germany.
  • Types include:
    • General Employment Visa – for skilled professionals with a job offer.
    • EU Blue Card – for highly skilled professionals earning at least €45,300 per year (or €39,682 for shortage occupations).
    • Job Seeker Visa – Allows skilled workers to stay up to 6 months to find a job.
  • Work visas require a valid job offer and employer sponsorship.

5. Student Visa

  • Required for non-EU students enrolling in German universities.
  • Types:
    • Student Visa – for admitted students.
    • Language Course Visa – for language studies.
    • Student Applicant Visa – for students applying to German universities.
  • Requires proof of:
    • University admission.
    • Sufficient financial support (€11,208 per year in a blocked account).
    • Health insurance.

6. Family Reunion Visa

  • For spouses, children, and dependent family members of German residents.
  • Requires proof of relationship and sufficient financial means.
  • Spouses may need to demonstrate basic German language skills (A1 level).

7. Permanent Residency (Settlement Permit)

  • Available after 5 years of legal residence (or 33 months with an EU Blue Card).
  • Requires proof of:
    • Stable income and employment.
    • German language proficiency (B1 level or higher).
    • Health insurance and pension contributions.

8. Transit Visa

  • Required for travelers from certain countries transiting through German airports.
  • Exemptions apply to passengers with valid visas from Schengen, US, UK, Canada, or Japan.

9. Entry Requirements

  • Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Health Insurance: Required for all long-term visas.
  • Biometric Data: Fingerprints may be required during the visa application.

Germany’s visa system follows strict documentation requirements, so travelers should ensure they meet all conditions before applying.

9. Italy

Visa Policies of Italy

Italy follows the Schengen visa system, allowing entry for various purposes such as tourism, business, work, and study. The visa requirements depend on the traveler’s nationality and the purpose of their visit. Below are the key visa regulations for Italy.

1. Visa-Free Entry

  • Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Schengen Area members can enter and stay in Italy without a visa.
  • Nationals of over 60 non-EU countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and South Korea, can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business.
  • Visa-exempt travelers cannot work in Italy without a work permit.

2. Schengen Visa (Short-Stay Visa)

  • Required for travelers from non-exempt countries.
  • Allows up to 90 days of stay within a 180-day period for tourism, business, family visits, or medical treatment.
  • Valid for travel across all 27 Schengen countries.
  • Requirements:
    • Valid passport (at least 3 months beyond stay).
    • Proof of accommodation and travel itinerary.
    • Travel insurance (€30,000 coverage minimum).
    • Sufficient financial means for the stay.

3. Business Visa

  • For individuals attending business meetings, trade fairs, or professional events.
  • Similar to the Schengen Visa, but requires an invitation letter from an Italian company.

4. Work Visa (National D Visa)

  • Required for foreigners seeking employment in Italy.
  • Issued under Italy’s annual work permit quotas (Decreto Flussi).
  • Requires a job offer from an Italian employer before applying.
  • Types of work visas:
    • Employee Visa – for individuals with a valid work contract.
    • Self-Employment Visa – for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and investors.
    • Seasonal Work Visa – for temporary agricultural or tourism jobs.

5. Study Visa

  • Required for non-EU students enrolling in Italian universities or courses longer than 90 days.
  • Requirements:
    • University admission letter.
    • Proof of sufficient funds (€6,000+ per year).
    • Health insurance.
    • Accommodation proof in Italy.
  • Students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week).

6. Family Reunion Visa

  • For spouses, children, and dependent family members of Italian residents.
  • Requires proof of relationship, financial stability, and accommodation.
  • The applicant may need to demonstrate basic Italian language skills (A1 level).

7. Permanent Residency (Long-Term EU Residence Permit)

  • Available after 5 years of continuous legal residence in Italy.
  • Requires proof of:
    • Stable income and employment.
    • Italian language proficiency (A2 level or higher).
    • Health insurance and social security contributions.

8. Transit Visa

  • Required for travelers from certain countries transiting through an Italian airport.
  • Exemptions apply to travelers with valid visas from Schengen, US, UK, Canada, or Japan.

9. Entry Requirements

  • Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Health Insurance: Mandatory for long-term visas.
  • Biometric Data: Fingerprints may be collected during the visa application.

Italy’s visa system follows strict documentation requirements, so travelers should ensure they meet all conditions before applying.

10. United States (USA)

Visa Policies of the United States (USA)

The United States has a structured visa system based on the purpose of travel, such as tourism, business, study, work, and immigration. Below are the key visa regulations for different types of travelers.

1. Visa-Free Entry (Visa Waiver Program – VWP)

  • Citizens of 40+ countries (such as the UK, Germany, Japan, and Australia) can enter the US without a visa for up to 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
  • Travelers must apply for Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before departure.
  • Visa-free travelers cannot work or study under VWP.

2. Visitor Visas (B1/B2 Visa)

  • Required for travelers not eligible for VWP.
  • B1 Visa (Business Visitor): For business meetings, conferences, and negotiations.
  • B2 Visa (Tourist Visa): For tourism, visiting family, or medical treatment.
  • Valid for 6 months with possible extensions.

3. Work Visas

  • Foreigners must have a job offer from a US employer who sponsors their visa.
  • Common work visa categories:
    • H-1B Visa – For highly skilled professionals in specialized fields (valid for up to 6 years).
    • L-1 Visa – For intra-company transfers (employees moving to a US branch of their company).
    • O-1 Visa – For individuals with extraordinary abilities in arts, sciences, or business.
    • TN Visa – For Canadian and Mexican professionals under NAFTA/USMCA agreement.
    • H-2A & H-2B Visas – For temporary agricultural (H-2A) and non-agricultural (H-2B) workers.

4. Study Visas

  • Required for foreign students enrolling in US schools and universities.
  • F-1 Visa – For academic students (universities, colleges, language schools).
  • M-1 Visa – For vocational or technical students.
  • J-1 Visa – For exchange programs (researchers, interns, and cultural exchange visitors).
  • Students with F-1 visas can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) on campus.

5. Family and Marriage-Based Visas

  • K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa: For individuals planning to marry a US citizen within 90 days of arrival.
  • CR-1/IR-1 Spouse Visa: For spouses of US citizens.
  • F2A/F2B Visas: For family members of US Green Card holders.

6. Immigrant Visas (Green Card)

  • Allows permanent residence in the US.
  • Categories include:
    • Employment-Based Green Card (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, EB-5).
    • Family-Sponsored Green Card.
    • Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery – For citizens of low-immigration countries to the US.

7. Transit Visa (C Visa)

  • Required for travelers passing through the US to another country.
  • Includes C-1 Visa (general transit) and C-2 Visa (for UN personnel).

8. Investor Visa (E-2 Visa)

  • For foreign entrepreneurs investing in US businesses.
  • Only available to nationals of treaty countries with the US.

9. Entry Requirements

  • Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond stay.
  • Health and Security Screening: Travelers may need to provide additional documents based on nationality.
  • COVID-19 or Other Health Regulations: Additional health checks may apply depending on current policies.

The US visa process can be lengthy and complex, so applicants should apply well in advance and meet all required conditions.

11. Canada

Visa Policies of Canada

Canada has a structured visa system based on the purpose of travel, including tourism, business, work, study, and immigration. Below are the key visa regulations for different types of travelers.

1. Visa-Free Entry (Electronic Travel Authorization – eTA)

  • Citizens of visa-exempt countries (such as the UK, EU nations, Australia, and Japan) do not need a visa for short visits (up to 6 months).
  • Travelers from these countries must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before boarding a flight.
  • US citizens can travel without a visa or eTA but must carry a valid passport.

2. Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa – TRV)

  • Required for travelers not eligible for eTA.
  • Allows stays of up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family, or business visits.
  • Applicants must show:
    • Valid passport.
    • Proof of financial means.
    • Travel itinerary and return ticket.

3. Study Visa (Study Permit)

  • Required for foreign students enrolling in Canadian educational institutions.
  • Applicants must have:
    • Letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI).
    • Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
    • Medical examination (if applicable).
  • Work permission:
    • Students can work up to 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during breaks.

4. Work Visas

  • Foreign workers must have a job offer from a Canadian employer who may need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
  • Common work visa categories:
    • Temporary Work Permit (TWP) – For short-term work.
    • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) – For students who completed a program at a Canadian institution.
    • Global Talent Stream (GTS) – For highly skilled professionals in tech and specialized fields.
    • International Experience Canada (IEC) – For youth (18-35) from select countries for working holidays.

5. Family Sponsorship Visa

  • Spouse/Partner Visa: For foreign spouses or common-law partners of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
  • Parent and Grandparent Super Visa: Allows parents/grandparents to visit for up to 5 years per stay.

6. Permanent Residency (PR) Visas

  • Express Entry Program: For skilled workers under:
    • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).
    • Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
    • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): For individuals nominated by specific provinces based on labor needs.
  • Start-up Visa: For entrepreneurs with an innovative business plan backed by a designated Canadian investor.
  • Caregiver Program: For caregivers taking care of children or elderly individuals in Canada.

7. Transit Visa

  • Required for travelers from certain countries transiting through Canada to another destination.
  • Not needed if the traveler holds a valid US visa and is flying through Canada to the US.

8. Investor Visa

  • Canada offers investment-based immigration through some provincial programs like the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP).
  • Requires a minimum investment and net worth, depending on the program.

9. Entry Requirements

  • Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the planned stay.
  • Biometric Data: Required for most visa applicants.
  • Health and Security Screening: Some travelers may need a medical exam or police clearance.

Canada has a welcoming immigration system, but visa processing times vary, so applicants should apply well in advance of their intended travel date.

12. Spain

Visa Policies of Spain

Spain follows the Schengen visa system, which regulates entry for tourism, business, work, study, and immigration. The visa requirements depend on the traveler’s nationality and the purpose of their visit.

1. Visa-Free Entry

  • Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Schengen Area members can enter and stay in Spain without a visa.
  • Nationals of over 60 non-EU countries (including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and South Korea) can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business.
  • Visa-exempt travelers cannot work in Spain without a work visa.

2. Schengen Visa (Short-Stay Visa)

  • Required for travelers from non-exempt countries.
  • Allows up to 90 days of stay within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits.
  • Valid for travel across all 27 Schengen countries.
  • Requirements:
    • Valid passport (at least 3 months beyond stay).
    • Proof of accommodation and travel itinerary.
    • Travel insurance (€30,000 coverage minimum).
    • Proof of sufficient financial means.

3. Business Visa

  • For individuals attending business meetings, conferences, or trade fairs.
  • Similar to the Schengen Visa, but requires an invitation letter from a Spanish company.

4. Work Visa

  • Required for foreigners planning to work in Spain.
  • Applicants must have a job offer from a Spanish employer, and the employer must obtain a work authorization before the visa application.
  • Common types of work visas:
    • Employee Visa – For skilled professionals with a job contract.
    • EU Blue Card – For highly qualified workers meeting salary and experience requirements.
    • Self-Employment Visa – For freelancers and entrepreneurs.
    • Seasonal Work Visa – For temporary agricultural or tourism jobs.

5. Study Visa

  • Required for non-EU students enrolling in Spanish universities or courses longer than 90 days.
  • Requirements:
    • Letter of acceptance from a Spanish educational institution.
    • Proof of sufficient funds (€600–€700 per month).
    • Health insurance.
    • Proof of accommodation in Spain.
  • Students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week).

6. Family Reunion Visa

  • For spouses, children, and dependent family members of Spanish residents or citizens.
  • Requires proof of relationship, financial stability, and accommodation.
  • Spouses may need to demonstrate basic Spanish language skills (A1 level).

7. Permanent Residency (Long-Term Residence Permit)

  • Available after 5 years of continuous legal residence in Spain.
  • Requires proof of:
    • Stable income and employment.
    • Spanish language proficiency (A2 level or higher).
    • Health insurance and social security contributions.

8. Golden Visa (Investor Visa)

  • Available to non-EU citizens who invest a minimum of €500,000 in real estate or €1 million in Spanish businesses.
  • Provides a residency permit with an option for permanent residency after five years.

9. Transit Visa

  • Required for travelers from certain countries transiting through Spanish airports.
  • Exemptions apply to passengers with valid visas from Schengen, US, UK, Canada, or Japan.

10. Entry Requirements

  • Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Health Insurance: Mandatory for long-term visas.
  • Biometric Data: Fingerprints may be collected during the visa application.

Spain’s visa system follows strict documentation requirements, so travelers should ensure they meet all conditions before applying.

Take the Next Step In Your Career!

Get in touch today and turn your dreams into reality!

Get In Touch