The invitation letter for entering Spain is a document that raises many questions among people interested in visiting the country, whether for tourism, business, or to visit family and friends. This article aims to answer frequently asked questions about the process and provide clear guidance on how to obtain one, what the requirements are, and what to do if you encounter obstacles during the application process.

What is an invitation letter for entering Spain?

An invitation letter is an official document that helps people who are not residents of the European Union enter Spain. It is issued by a legal resident of Spain who invites a foreign national to stay at their home during their visit. Its purpose is to assure the authorities that the visitor has somewhere to stay and sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay.

It is important to note that an invitation letter does not, by itself, guarantee entry into the country, as border control authorities will assess each case independently.

The letter must also contain detailed information about both the visitor and the host, and must be correctly requested and processed to be considered valid.

Who needs an invitation letter to travel to Spain?

Not all visitors to Spain need an invitation letter. This document is mainly required for citizens of countries that are not members of the European Union or part of the Schengen Area who do not have a tourist visa allowing them to enter the country.

Foreign nationals with family or friends who are residents of Spain and who wish to stay with them during their visit must have an invitation letter as proof of accommodation.

In some cases, travellers may be asked to present the invitation letter at border control on arrival, so it is essential to have a valid copy available.

What are the requirements for applying for an invitation letter?

To apply for an invitation letter, the host in Spain must meet a number of requirements and submit certain supporting documents. These usually include:

• A copy of the host’s passport or DNI.
• Proof that accommodation is available (property deeds or a rental agreement).
• Details about the visitor, including their full identification details and passport information.
• Municipal registration certificate proving that the accommodation can host the guest.

The host must also show that they have sufficient financial means to support their guest if necessary.

How do you apply for a letter of invitation to Spain?

The application for a letter of invitation must be submitted to the Police Station responsible for the host’s place of residence. Processing times may vary depending on the area and the Immigration Office’s workload.

The host must complete an official form and submit the required documents. Once the application has been submitted, the information will be reviewed and the letter of invitation will be issued if everything is in order.

It is advisable to start the process well in advance, as it can take anywhere from one week to two months. You should also bear in mind that interviews or additional checks may be required.

Where should I apply for a letter of invitation?

The application must be submitted to the Police Station or Immigration Office in the area where the host lives.

It is essential to check in advance the opening hours and whether you need to book an appointment, to avoid problems and delays.

The process may be faster in some cities and slower in others, so it is advisable to check other users’ experiences or seek advice from professionals in this field.

How much does it cost to obtain a letter of invitation to Spain?

The price of a letter of invitation in Spain is set by the Ministry of the Interior and is currently around 75,05 €. Additional administrative fees may apply, so the final amount may vary.

The fee must be paid before the application is submitted. In many cases, payment must be made using a specific fee form provided by the Police Station or available to download online.

It is important to bear in mind that this is a processing fee and is not refundable if the letter of invitation is refused.

To provide more information, we have included a video that explains the application process for a letter of invitation in detail:

Consequences of not having a letter of invitation

Not having a letter of invitation can lead to complications at border control, including the possibility of being refused entry to Spain. This is one reason why you should apply for and obtain the letter before you travel.

In addition, the absence of this document may indicate to the authorities that the visitor does not meet the entry requirements and may result in return or expulsion proceedings.

Having a valid letter of invitation is an essential step towards ensuring a trouble-free visit and demonstrating that the travel plans are genuine.

Related questions about the letter of invitation process for Spain

Why might a letter of invitation be refused?

A letter of invitation may be refused if the authorities consider the information provided to be false or incomplete. This includes inaccurate details about the accommodation, the host’s financial means or the relationship between the host and the guest.

A refusal may also occur if there is a record of immigration rules being breached during previous visits, or if any required documents are missing.

How long does it take for a letter of invitation to Spain to be approved?

The time it takes to approve a letter of invitation may vary depending on the area and the Immigration Office’s workload. The process generally takes between one week and two months, so it is advisable to apply well in advance.

It is important to track the application status and be prepared to provide additional information or attend interviews if required.

How much money should I bring to Spain if I have a letter of invitation?

Even if you have a letter of invitation, border control authorities may require you to show that you have sufficient financial means for your stay in Spain. The amount varies, but you are advised to check official sources for an up-to-date and appropriate figure.

Remember that, in addition to having a letter of invitation, you must meet all the other requirements set by the Spanish immigration authorities.

What information must a letter of invitation to Spain include?

The official letter of invitation must include the personal details of the host and guest, the address of the accommodation in Spain, the duration of the stay, and a statement in which the host undertakes to accommodate the guest. It must also be signed by the host and stamped by the Police Station.

It is essential for the letter to be submitted in its original form and accompanied by documents proving that the information provided is accurate.