New Spain Tourist Visa Processing Time for Indians in 2025

Written by

Inayat Sharma

Fact check by

Shreya Pandey

Updated on

Oct 09,2025

Spain Tourist Visa Processing Time: Guide for Indians - TerraTern

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Knowing the time required to process the Spain tourist visa is essential when planning to visit Spain. Being aware of the projected schedule would make you prepare flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements with a level of certainty.

We give updated information to 2025 in this guide. We incorporate the official statistics of BLS Spain and the Spanish Embassy. You will learn about deadlines, documents needed, charges, high-season tips, and reasons that will hasten approval.

 

What Is the Latest Standard Spain Tourist Visa Processing Time for Indian Applicants in 2025?

Aerial photo of a city at dawn; Latest Standard Spain Tourist Visa Processing Time for Indian Applicants - TerraTern

One of the main issues Indian applicants face is the normal Spain tourist visa processing time. According to official Schengen rules, 15 calendar days.

But in the real world, the average time taken by Indian applicants is 15-25 days. 

This is the reason why there is a difference:

  • Authority Schengen Rule: 15 calendar days after submission.

  • Embassy Processing: 4 days since documents arrive at the consulate.

  • BLS Processing Time: 2-4 days, courier, and checking.

  • Prolonged Processing: The outstanding cases may take 30-60 days. 

Most Indian applicants have a standard processing time of 15-25 days, depending on documentation and location.

How Many Calendar Days vs. Working Days for Processing in 2025?

Spain tourist visa processing time is confusing between calendar days and working days.

  • Weekends and holidays are also known as calendar days.

  • The official Schengen timeline of 15 days is used to mean calendar days.

  • A calendar day is approximately 10-11 days of work.

  • BLS centers tend to refer to working days. 

For example:

Should you file on Monday, 15 calendar days are weekends.

The courier processing and embassy processing can cease to count during holidays.

What Happens After You Submit Your Current Application at BLS?

After submissions, your application is taken through several steps. The following is a projected timeline of the Spain tourist visa processing time at the BLS: 

  • Day 0: Present application at the BLS center, including biometrics.

  • Day 1-2: BLS checks documents and receives fees.

  • Day 3-5: Docs are transmitted to the Spanish Embassy/Consulate by courier.

  • Day 6-20: Embassy review and decision.

  • Day 21-23: Passport has been couriered to the BLS center.

  • Days 24-25: Passport collected or delivered to home.

When Should You Apply for Your Latest Spain Tourist Visa from India?

The proper Spain tourist visa processing time is a matter of timing. Apply too soon or too late, and you will likely be delayed. 

  • First Use: 6 months before travel (9 months for seafarers).

  • Recent Safe Application: 15 days to travel.

  • Suggested: 4-6 weeks before taking off. 

The application of the previous will be a buffer to:

  • There are problems with document verification.

  • Embassy or BLS delays.

  • Reservation of travel and cancellation. 

Also Read: Spain Shifts Immigration Policy: Golden Visa End, Fast-Track Eviction Begins

What Is the 6-Month Early Application Rule in 2025?

Schengen regulations permit travelling up to 6 months before. 

  • Up to 180 days before travel in the case of regular applicants.

  • Seafarers, for a period of 9 months, and employment papers.

  • The time of processing does not depend on whether the application is early.

  • An early application will offer flexibility in visa validity and entry.

  • Make sure documents (bank statements, hotel bookings) are not old.

Why You Shouldn't Apply Too Close to Your Current Travel Date?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? Last-minute applications are risky. 

  • None of the corrections or resubmission of documents.

  • Peak season processing takes 25-30 days.

  • Embassy holidays do not form part of processing time.

  • The availability of BLS appointments in metros could be low. 

The refunding of the travel booking and the insurance claims can become complicated.

What are the Latest Factors Affecting Spain Tourist Visa Processing Time in India?

Several factors influence the Spain tourist visa processing time in India. Knowing them will make planning efficient. 

  • Seasonal Demand: Delays are increased in high-volume months.

  • Document Completeness: Lack of or incomprehensible documents prolongs processing.

  • BLS Center Location: The courier times of some centers are longer.

  • Application Type: A complex itinerary can be time-consuming.

  • Travel Experience: First-time applicants can undergo additional examination.

  • Further Scrutiny: Additional documents that the embassy demands can add to the processing time. 

Also Read: Spain's Golden Visa Program Faces Uncertain Future: A Strategic Shift

How Does Peak Season Impact Spain Visa Processing Time in 2025?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? Tourists cause a delay in visa time.

Peak Seasons:

  • Summer Holidays (May-August): Processing 22-28 days.

  • Winter Holidays (December-January): 25-30 days.

  • Spring Break (March-April): 18-22 days.

  • Deepavali (October-November): Moving averages.

Month-by-month processing table:

Month

Expected Processing Time (Days)

Notes

January- February

15-20

Post-holiday normalization

March- April

18-22

Increasing applications

May- August

22-28

Peak summer travel

September- October

18-22

Pre-Diwali moderate spike

November- December

25-30

High-volume winter holiday travel

 

Which Current Documents Cause the Most Processing Delays?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? Errors in documents are the most frequent reason for delays: 

  • Bank Statements: Inadequate or ambiguous.

  • Travel Insurance: Date lapses or misinterpreted dates.

  • Evidence of Accommodation: Non-refundable vs refundable confusion.

  • Working Papers: Lost NOC or salary statements.

  • Passport Validity: There are not enough blank pages or expiry problems.

  • Cover Letter: Unspecified purpose of the travel or itinerary.

Does the Latest BLS Center Location Affect Your Processing Time?

Yes, place does matter when it comes to schedules.

Embassy jurisdiction extends to North India, New Delhi. 

  • Mumbai: West and Central India Consulate General.

  • Bengaluru: South Indian Consulate General.

  • Chennai & Hyderabad: Consulate of Bengaluru.

  • Kolkata: Under the Delhi embassy.

  • Direct Consulate Cities: 15-20 days on average.

  • Secondary Cities: 2-4 days added due to the courier.

How Does Your Travel History Impact Processing Speed in 2025?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? Travel history influence: 

Positive Impacts:

  • Past Schengen compliance.

  • Vacation to the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.

  • Multiple passport stamps.

  • Clean immigration record. 

Potential Delays:

  • First-time applicants.

  • Gap years without travel.

  • Exclusively Middle East travel in the passport.

  • Previous visa rejections. 

A clean travel history can cut down processing to 12-15 days. First-timers can expect 20-25 days.

 

How Can You Track Your Current Spain Tourist Visa Application Status in 2025?

Aerial photography of a city; How Can You Track Your Current Spain Tourist Visa Application Status - TerraTern

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? Tracking reduces anxiety. Here’s how:

  • BLS online tracking (primary).

  • VFS Global tracking (where necessary).

  • Email/SMS notifications.

  • Phone inquiry to BLS.

  • Face-to-face interview (last resort). 

Status Meanings

  • Application Received: Under verification.

  • Under Consideration: Promoted to embassy.

  • Processed: Decision made.

  • Sent: The passport is on its way to BLS.

  • Passport Ready: Passport available.

  • Status Pending: Further consideration.

What Information Do You Need to Track Your Latest Application?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? To ensure efficient tracking, you require precise information: 

  • BLS number (INBLSXXX).

  • Date of birth (DD/MM/YYYY).

  • Passport number.

  • The date of submission of the application.

  • Registered email ID. 

Lost information? 

  • Call BLS customer service.

  • Go to the BLS center with a passport/ID.

  • Access the online account if registered.

How Often Should You Check Your Application Status in 2025?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? Tracking frequency matters: 

  • Days 1-5: Don’t check daily.

  • Days 6-15: Check every 2-3 days.

  • Days 16-20: Daily checking OK.

  • Day 21+: Follow up if no update. 

Proactively follow up if: 

  • No change within 7+ days, status is under process.

  • Over 25 days without a processing update.

  • The travel date is less than 10 days, and there is no decision.

Is Expedited or Fast-Track Processing Available for the Current Spain Tourist Visa in 2025?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? Official fast-track visas are not provided in Spain.

Exceptions

  • Medical emergencies.

  • Humanitarian reasons.

  • Urgent business travel.

What Latest Documentation Is Required for Emergency Processing Requests?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? Official fast-track visas are not provided in Spain. 

Documentation required: 

  • Hospital or medical certificate evidence.

  • Family emergency death certificate.

  • Letters from the employer in urgent business. 

Caution should be taken with agents who promise a quick processing solution. 

Also Read: Spain vs Austria: A Comprehensive Immigration Comparison Guide

What Are the Common Reasons for Spain Visa Processing Delays in 2025?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? Delays are a result of either applicant or system factors. 

Applicant-Caused (Preventable)

  • Incomplete documents.

  • Poor quality scans.

  • Inconsistent info.

  • Inadequate financial evidence. 

Uncontrollable System/External Delays

  • Peak season backlog.

  • Embassy staff shortages.

  • Additional authentication requirements.

  • Technical issues at BLS. 

The Problems with the Documents are

  • Bank statement formats.

  • Travel insurance gaps.

  • Hotel bookings cancellations.

  • Employment letter errors.

How Do Current Embassy Holidays Affect Your Processing Timeline?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? Holidays may increase the processing time for Spanish tourist visas. 

Spanish National Holidays:

  • Jan 1, 6th, Easter, 1st. May 12th, 1st. November 2 nd. December 25-26. 

India Public Holidays (BLS Centers):

  • Jan 26, Aug 15, Oct 2, Diwali, and state holidays in the region.

  • Holidays do not make processing days. Plan by adding buffer days.

What Happens If Latest Additional Documents Are Requested?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? The embassy can also demand additional documents: 

  • Alerting through email, SMS, or status update.

  • Frequent ones include bank statements, itinerary, hotel confirmation, employer letter, and travel insurance correction.

  • The date is typically 7-10 days to hand in.

  • Stop the clock till documents are received, which adds to the overall processing time 5-10 days.

  • Act without delaying any longer.

What Is the Spain Visa Rejection Rate for Indian Applicants in 2025?

Spanish flags on a pole; Spain Visa Rejection Rate for Indian Applicants - TerraTern

The failure rate of Indian visa applications to Spanish visas has been pegged on several factors, including the documentation of the visa application, the travel history, and the accuracy of the application.

Planning Assists in Transparency

  • Overall Rejection Rate: 10-20%.

  • Tourist Visa Rejection: 15-20%.

  • Complete Documents Success: 75-85%.

By Consulate

  • Mumbai: 12-15%

  • Delhi: 15-18%

  • Bengaluru: 10-13% 

This is because of first-time applications, missing documents, and poor financial evidence. After the pandemic, the rates stabilized.

How to Avoid Current Delays and Ensure Smooth Spain Visa Processing? 

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? To process without problems: 

Pre-Application

  • Use 46 weeks in advance of travel (810 weeks of high season).

  • Register for BSN now.

  • Assemble all the documents 2 weeks before.

  • Verify format requirements.

  • Arrange travel insurance. 

Document Quality

  • Photocopies of colors of high quality.

  • Arrange the documents according to the BLS checklist.

  • Insert originals and copies.

  • Sworn translations were necessary. 

Financial Documentation

  • Always have a good bank balance for 3+ months.

  • Prevent impulsive deposits before application.

  • Show sufficient funds: €60-90/day. 

Application Accuracy

  • Confirm dates and information.

  • Flight details and match accommodation.

  • Sign and date correctly. 

Travel Documentation Alignment

  • Flights match visa dates.

  • The hotel covers the entire stay.

  • Validity of travel insurance + 15 days buffer. 

Appointment & Submission

  • Arrive 15-30 mins early.

  • Carry originals + copies.

  • Dress appropriately.

  • Answer questions clearly.

  • Keep the receipt for tracking. 

Post-Submission

  • Track from day 5.

  • Respond within 24-48 hours in case of documents being requested.

  • Do not make any booking until you get your visa. 

Also Read: New EU-UK-Spain Gibraltar Deal: Key Provisions & Impact

What Is the Latest Ideal Document Submission Checklist?

What is the Spain tourist visa processing time? You should have all the necessary documents ready and in place before filling out your Spain tourist visa application. This assists in preventing delays and facilitates shoemaking. 

Document Submission Checklist for Spain Tourist Visa from India: 

  • Application form for a completed visa application.

  • The passport has a validity of 3+ months and two blank pages.

  • 1 biometric photograph (35-45mm).

  • Travel insurance (€30,000 coverage).

  • Airline tickets (round trip).

  • Accommodation proof.

  • Bank statements (6 months).

  • Earnings evidence (salary slips, ITR).

  • Letter of purpose of visit.

Spain Tourist Visa Processing Time by Application Type in 2025

The average Spain tourist visa processing time in India in 2025 is 15 to 25 working days. Yet, this time may depend on several factors, such as the nature of the application, the city where it is submitted, and the time of the year. 

  • Short Stay (Up to 90 Days): 15-25 days.

  • Multiple-Entry: 20-30 days.

  • Family/Friend Visit: 20-28 days.

  • Business/ Official Travel: 15-25 days.

  • Emergency Processing: Variable, is based on documentation.

What Are the 2025 Updates Affecting Spain Visa Processing Time?

A castle with a bridge; Updates Affecting Spain Visa Processing Time - TerraTern

As of 2025, several updates have been introduced that affect how Indian travelers apply for a Spain tourist visa. While the standard processing time remains 15–25 calendar days, new changes in fees, documentation, and digital systems have made the process smoother and more transparent.

1. Fee Structure Changes 

From January 2025, the Schengen visa fee has been revised:

  • Adults: €90 (approx. INR 8,020)

  • Children (6–11 years): €45 (approx. INR 4,010)

  • BLS Service Charge: INR 1,487 (previously INR 1,395)

2. Digital Transformation Initiatives

Spain has introduced several digital upgrades to simplify the visa process:

  • Online forms are now mandatory (no paper accepted).

  • Real-time tracking and free SMS updates available.

  • Digital document uploads piloted in select BLS centers.

While these don’t reduce processing days, they minimize delays caused by incomplete or incorrect documentation.

3. Post-Pandemic Normalization

Visa processing has returned to pre-pandemic timelines:

  • Standard 15-day turnaround for most tourist visas.

  • Backlogs cleared and appointments easier to book.

  • Interviews reduced for low-risk applicants.

Applicants can now expect a faster and more predictable visa experience.

4. Enhanced Verification Processes

Spain strengthened its security and document checks in 2025:

  • Cross-verification of biometric data across Schengen nations.

  • Financial and employment verification has been made stricter.

  • Travel insurance compliance is strictly enforced.

These checks help ensure authenticity but may cause minor delays if documentation is unclear.

5. Seasonal Capacity Adjustments

To manage high demand during summer and winter holidays, Spain expanded operations:

  • More embassy staff during peak seasons.

  • Extended hours and extra BLS slots in metro cities.

This has significantly reduced seasonal visa delays compared to 2024.

6. New Documentation Requirements

Spain tightened its documentation standards for 2025:

  • Minimum travel insurance coverage of €30,000 is now mandatory.

  • A cover letter is strongly recommended.

  • Bank statements must be dated within 30 days of application.

  • A detailed itinerary is required for all applicants.

Submitting updated and accurate documents helps avoid rejections or resubmission delays.

7. Jurisdiction and Process Changes

Spain improved its network to enhance access for Indian applicants:

  • Bengaluru Consulate now covers a wider region.

  • Mumbai Consulate upgraded its capacity for faster handling.

  • New BLS centers launched in cities like Pune and Kochi.

These improvements have shortened regional processing timelines and eased access.

 

Conclusion 

The average time for Spain tourist visa processing time for Indian applicants in 2025 is 15 to 25 days. Likewise, to have a smooth process, apply 4-6 weeks before the actual travel date, giving you ample time to overcome any unexpected delay. All the necessary documents should be prepared carefully because incomplete or unrelated paperwork may considerably lengthen the processing time.

You should not leave it to the last minute with your application, and ensure that you keep track of it online so that when the embassy or the BLS Spain makes any request, you can respond quickly. With the help of the official recommendations of BLS Spain and the Spanish Embassy, prior planning, knowledge of the peak seasons, and complete documentation, you will be guaranteed that your trip to Spain will be completed on time without any stress attached to obtaining a visa.  Contact TerraTern for more information on Spain tourist visa processing time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for Spain tourist visa less than 15 days before travel?

No, you cannot apply less than 15 days before your planned travel date. The Spanish consulates require a minimum of 15 days for processing as per Schengen guidelines. To avoid last-minute issues, it’s best to apply 4–6 weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons.

What happens if my Spain visa doesn't arrive before my travel date?

If your visa isn’t approved before departure, you cannot travel to Spain or any Schengen country. Contact BLS International immediately to check your status. Consider travel insurance that covers visa delays and explore flight or hotel rescheduling options if necessary.

Do weekends and holidays count in the 15-day processing time?

Yes, the 15-day processing time includes weekends and holidays as it’s counted in calendar days. However, embassies don’t process visas during weekends or Spanish public holidays, which can effectively extend your waiting period. Always allow 20–25 days to be safe.

Can I travel to other Schengen countries while my Spain visa is processing?

No, you cannot travel internationally during this period as your passport stays with BLS or the Spanish Embassy. Plan your travel schedule carefully to ensure no overlapping trips. Wait until your passport and visa are returned before booking any further travel.

Is there a guaranteed maximum processing time for Spain visas?

Yes, the Schengen Visa Code sets a maximum of 30 calendar days for standard cases and up to 60 days for exceptional ones. Most Indian applicants receive results within 15–25 days. If you haven’t heard back after 30 days, contact BLS customer service.

Does applying through an agent speed up Spain visa processing time?

No, agents cannot shorten embassy processing time as all applications go through the same BLS system. However, they can help you prepare accurate documents, reducing delays caused by errors. Be cautious of anyone promising faster or guaranteed approvals.

Can I expedite processing by paying extra fees?

No, Spain doesn’t offer premium or priority processing for tourist visas. All applications are reviewed equally regardless of additional payments. Only genuine emergencies—like medical or humanitarian cases—may receive special attention at the consulate’s discretion.

How long does biometric appointment at BLS take?

The biometric and document submission appointment usually lasts 15–30 minutes, depending on crowd and center location. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to avoid rescheduling. The day you submit your biometrics counts as Day 0 for processing time.

Will my visa processing be faster if I've traveled to Spain before?

If you have a history of compliant Spain or Schengen travel, your application may be processed a bit faster—around 12–15 days. Repeat travelers often face less scrutiny than first-timers. However, this does not officially guarantee a shorter processing time.

Can I withdraw my Spain visa application to get my passport back quickly?

Yes, you can request to withdraw your application if you urgently need your passport for another purpose. Visit the BLS center with your receipt or contact customer service for assistance. Note that visa fees are non-refundable after withdrawal.

Does travel insurance delay or speed up visa processing?

Proper Schengen-compliant insurance doesn’t affect speed but is essential for approval. Incorrect or insufficient coverage can lead to delays or rejections. Ensure your policy covers at least €30,000, is valid across all Schengen countries, and includes your entire travel duration.

How does Spain visa processing time compare with other Schengen countries?

Spain’s 15–20 day timeline is on par with Italy, Portugal, and Greece. France and Germany typically take longer—around 18–25 days—with stricter checks. Overall, Spain offers a moderate processing speed and balanced approval rate for Indian applicants.

Can I call the Spanish Embassy directly to check my visa status?

No, the embassy doesn’t handle direct status inquiries by phone. All tracking must be done through the BLS online system. Only contact the embassy if BLS doesn’t respond after several working days or in genuine emergencies.

What time of year has the fastest Spain visa processing for Indians?

Processing is usually fastest during January–February and September–October, when application volumes are low. Avoid applying during peak seasons like May–August or December, as processing can stretch to 22–28 days.

Does the validity of my Spain visa depend on processing time?

No, visa validity is based on your travel dates and application details, not processing duration. Most tourist visas are valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on your request and embassy discretion. Longer processing does not shorten your visa validity.