If you collect your luggage or go through passport control, you enter Schengen and need a visa if your nationality requires one.
Routes to consider
If you stay in the international transit area, only certain nationalities need an airport transit visa. In Madrid and Barcelona, changing terminals may require going through control: check with the airline whether your luggage is checked through to the final destination. Schengen visa for Spain
A point to check carefully
Check on your ticket whether your luggage is checked through to the final destination and whether changing terminals requires passing passport control.
Documents to get started
- Full passport and current authorisation, if any.
- Itinerary, travel dates and bookings or intended accommodation.
- Evidence of income, occupation and ties to your country of residence.
- Timeline of entries, departures, applications and notifications.
How we proceed
- Assessment: confirm the route and competent authority.
- Preparation: collect and review evidence specific to your case.
- Filing: check forms, fees and representation.
- Follow-up: monitor notices and explain the decision and next formalities.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start?
Before buying tickets or your authorisation expires. If you received a notice, provide its receipt date too: it may determine the response deadline.