Key Document for Apply Spanish Schengen Visa from Cambodia

In recent years, inquiries from Cambodian residents seeking entry into Spain have grown steadily, reflecting a broader regional trend of increased mobility across Southeast Asia. Spain remains an attractive destination for short-term travel whether for tourism, professional commitments, academic participation, or cultural engagements yet many prospective applicants encounter uncertainty at the outset simply because Spain does not operate a visa-issuing authority within Cambodia.

As a result, individuals planning a short stay in Spain must follow a specific procedure: according to Spanish Consulate website all Spanish Schengen visa applications originating from Cambodia are processed by the French Consulate in Phnom Penh, with administrative handling carried out by TLS Contact. This arrangement frequently gives rise to questions, especially among first-time travelers who may be unfamiliar with shared-consular processing or externally managed submission systems.

It is not uncommon for applicants to seek clarity on matters such as the correct point of contact, the reliability of unofficial checklists circulating online, or the degree of preparation required before scheduling an appointment. Some also express uncertainty regarding the validity of prior biometric data, the timing of submissions during peak travel seasons, or the need for translations in cases where supporting documents are issued in Khmer. These concerns are entirely understandable, and addressing them clearly is essential to ensuring that applications meet the standards expected by both the French Consulate and the Spanish authorities.

Spain’s Schengen visa formally designated as a Short-Stay Visa (Type C) authorizes entry into the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. It is a mandatory requirement for Cambodian citizens and residents who wish to visit Spain for temporary purposes, and its issuance is contingent upon strict adherence to common Schengen regulations as well as specific procedural rules applied by the French Consulate in Phnom Penh.

This guide has been prepared to provide Cambodian applicants with a structured, authoritative, and context-specific explanation of the Spanish Schengen visa process. It outlines the role of TLS Contact, clarifies the responsibilities of the French Consulate, and highlights the critical importance of accurate documentation and timely preparation. Its objective is to equip every applicant with a clear understanding of the formal steps involved so that the journey toward Spain begins with both confidence and administrative certainty.

In recent months, Spanish visa authorities have noted a growing volume of applications submitted by citizens of Cambodia seeking short-term entry into Spain. This rise in demand mirrors broader mobility trends observed across various regions, from Central Asia to East Africa and beyond, including countries such as Djibouti, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Bolivia, Uzbekistan, Tanzania, Tunisia, and Russia.

Spain’s diverse appeal ranging from cultural tourism and academic participation to professional engagements and family visits continues to draw Cambodian travelers in increasing numbers. This upward trajectory underscores the necessity for precise, context-specific guidance on the Schengen visa process as it applies to applicants residing in Cambodia.

Spanish Schengen Visa From Cambodia: Complete Guide

Spain remains a popular destination for Cambodian travelers seeking world-renowned architecture, Mediterranean coastlines, international business opportunities, and cultural events that span centuries of European heritage. Yet despite the growing interest in Spain, Cambodia does not host a Spanish visa office or embassy authorized to process short-stay Schengen visa applications.

As a result, all Spanish Schengen Visa applications from Cambodia are processed through an alternative consular arrangement:

The French Consulate in Phnom Penh (decision-making authority)
TLS Contact Cambodia (administrative and biometric collection center)
France-Visas (the official, mandatory application portal)

Why Cambodian Travelers Must Apply Through the French Consulate?

Spain, like several other Schengen states, has designated France as the representative authority for short-stay visa matters in Cambodia. This means:

You cannot apply directly at the Embassy of Spain.
You must begin your application on the France-Visas website.
You must physically submit your documents and biometrics at TLS Contact Phnom Penh.
The visa decision is issued by the French Consulate on behalf of Spain.

This arrangement is formal, recognized under Schengen representation rules, and binding for all applicants regardless of the purpose of travel.

Understanding the Spanish Schengen Visa (Type C)

A Spanish Schengen Visa (Type C) authorizes stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Once issued, the visa allows the holder to enter Spain and travel freely across all 26 Schengen countries.

Common Purposes of Travel Include:

Tourism and cultural visits
Business meetings, conferences, trade events
Short-term study, training courses, or workshops
Family or private visits
Airport transit through Spanish territory

Each category has its own documentary requirements, all outlined further below.

Step-By-Step Procedure for Applying for a Spanish Schengen Visa From Cambodia

Step 1 – Determine the Correct Visa Category

Before beginning your application, identify the purpose of your stay from France-Visas website. Accuracy at this stage ensures that your checklist and interview requirements are tailored correctly.

Step 2 – Register and Complete the Application on France-Visas

The online application must be initiated at France-Visas

What applicants must do:

Create a user account
Answer the preliminary questionnaire
Complete the Schengen application form accurately

Print:

The application form
The personalized document checklist
The registration receipt

The printed form and receipt must be signed before submission.

Step 3 – Schedule an Appointment With TLS Contact Phnom Penh

Once the online form is completed, you will be redirected to book an appointment with TLS Contact Cambodia, the external service provider.

Important notes:

Appointment validation requires payment of the service fee.
You must print the appointment confirmation page.
High-season months (June–September, December) fill quickly—early booking is strongly advised.

Step 4 – Submit the Application and Provide Biometrics

On your scheduled date:

Arrive at TLS Contact no more than 15 minutes early.
Bring:
- Printed and signed France-Visas form
- Registration receipt
- TLS appointment confirmation
- Your complete set of supporting documents

Biometric Requirements

Applicants aged 12 and above must submit fingerprints and a digital photograph.
Biometric data remains valid for 59 months, meaning repeat applicants may not need to provide fingerprints again unless requested.
After verification, TLS forwards the application to the French Consulate, which assesses it on behalf of Spain.

Step 5 – Track the File and Collect Your Passport

Tracking is available through your TLS Contact online account.

Once a decision is made, you may retrieve your passport:

In person
Through an authorized representative
Via courier (if selected when applying)

Applicants must immediately check:

Name accuracy
Visa type and validity period
Number of entries permitted

Any errors must be reported without delay.

Required Documents for a Spanish Schengen Visa From Cambodia

Below is the official document list adapted for applicants in Cambodia.

All documents must be submitted in original with photocopies.

Documents issued in Khmer must include certified translations into English or French.

Mandatory Documents for All Applicants
Application Form

Completed via France-Visas
Printed and signed
For minors, signed by both parents

Valid Passport

Issued within the last 10 years
Valid at least 3 months beyond exit from Schengen
Minimum two blank pages
Copy of all pages (including blank ones)

Photographs

Two identical photos
35 × 45 mm
White background

Proof of Civil Status

National identification card
Birth certificate
Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or death certificate if applicable

Proof of Travel Arrangements

Round-trip flight reservation
For onward travel: booking or visa for next destination

Proof of Accommodation

Provide one of the following:

Confirmed hotel bookings covering the entire stay
Invitation letter from host + copy of host’s Spanish ID/residence permit
Proof of property ownership if staying in applicant’s own residence

Travel Medical Insurance

Minimum coverage: €30,000
Valid in all Schengen states
Covers emergencies, hospital care, and medical repatriation

Evidence of Financial Means

Employees

Employer certificate
Recent pay slips (3 months)
Personal bank statements (3 months)

Self-Employed Individuals

Business registration
Tax declarations
Bank statements

Students

Enrollment certificate
Confirmation of school leave
Proof of financial sponsorship

Unemployed Applicants

Proof of family support, land ownership, or other financial guarantees

Sponsored Travelers

Sponsorship letter
Sponsor’s ID or passport
Sponsor’s financial documentation

Category-Specific Documents

Business Travelers

Invitation from the Spanish company
Event registration or program
Details of commercial ties

Cultural/Academic Activities

Official invitation
Explanation of purpose and duration
Evidence of participation

Airport Transit

Visa for final destination (if required)
Confirmed onward flight

Additional Requirements for Minor Applicants

Birth certificate
Copies of parents’ passports
Parental authorization (notarized) if traveling with only one parent or with a third party
Custody or guardianship papers if applicable

Visa Fees for Spanish Schengen Visa in Cambodia

Fees must be paid in Cambodian riels (KHR) at TLS Contact.

Adults (12+) – €90
Children 6–11 – €45
Children under 6 – Free
TLS Service Fee – Additional Set by provider

Exchange rates may vary and fees are non-refundable.

Processing Times and Practical Advice

Standard Processing

15 calendar days from the date the Consulate receives the file
May extend to 30–45 days during peak seasons

Essential Tips

Do not purchase airline tickets before receiving the visa.
Submit your file at least 3–5 weeks before travel to avoid delays.
Ensure that bank statements are recent, stamped, and consistent.
Provide accurate, verifiable information—discrepancies may lead to refusal.

Final Thoughts: Preparing for a Successful Application

Applying for a Spanish Schengen Visa from Cambodia requires careful organization, full compliance with French and Schengen requirements, and an understanding of the consular representation system that governs the process. While the pathway involves multiple administrative steps France-Visas, TLS Contact, and the French Consulate each component is structured to help applicants present complete and standardized files.

By adhering closely to the instructions in this guide, Cambodian applicants can significantly improve their chances of a smooth, timely, and successful visa outcome, whether traveling for leisure, business, or cultural exploration across Spain’s vibrant regions.