Tanzanians yearning to wander through Spain’s sun-drenched streets, the journey begins not with a plane ticket but with a meticulously curated stack of paperwork. The Spanish Schengen visa, a golden key unlocking the doors to Madrid’s bustling plazas and Barcelona’s artistic corridors, is both a necessity and a challenge. While the process may seem formidable, a well-prepared traveler stands a far greater chance of success.
Why Spain?
Spain is a country where history and modernity coexist in effortless harmony. It is a land where the echoes of Moorish influence still whisper through the arches of the Alhambra, while Gaudí’s whimsical architecture adorns Barcelona with surrealistic wonder. From the flamenco rhythms of Seville to the gastronomic delights of San Sebastián, Spain offers a sensory feast for those who seek adventure. However, before experiencing these wonders firsthand, the Tanzanian traveler must successfully navigate Spain’s visa requirements.
Understanding the Spanish Schengen Visa
The Spanish Schengen visa is a short-term travel permit that grants access to Spain and other Schengen-area countries for a period of up to 90 days within a 180-day window. Whether your journey is for tourism, business, or visiting family, the process requires careful attention to detail.
Esteemed travelers from Tunisia, Uzbekistan, Gambia, Cameroon, Jamaica, Belarus, Algeria, Zimbabwe, Lebanon, Vietnam, Thailand, and Azerbaijan—your journey to Spain and the esteemed Schengen Area begins here. Consider this visa not merely an administrative requirement but a key to unlocking Europe’s remarkable heritage—Gaudí’s visionary architecture, historic Moorish palaces, and lively plazas that embody the essence of culture and tradition.
Applicant Statistics of Spanish Schengen Visa from Tanzania
Statistics on applications for a Spanish Schengen Visa from Tanzania reveal a significant volume of submissions to the Spanish Consulate in Dar Es Salaam. In 2023, nearly 1,424 individuals in Tanzania applied for Spanish visas, and over 88% of these applications were approved.
Years | Schengen State | Country | Consulate | Number of Visa Applications | Visas Issued | Visas Denied | Not issued rate for uniform visas |
2022 | Spain | Tanzania | Dar Es Salaam | 917 | 811 | 106 | 11.2% |
2021 | Spain | Tanzania | Dar Es Salaam | 187 | 165 | 10 | 5.71% |
2020 | Spain | Tanzania | Dar Es Salaam | 850 | 620 | 162 | 19.06% |
Embarking on the Journey of a Spanish Schengen Visa from Tanzania
For Tanzanians eager to immerse themselves in Spain’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, the first step is a meticulous bureaucratic endeavor—the Spanish Schengen visa. Unlike the relaxed pace of a Spanish afternoon, this process requires careful planning, precision, and strict adherence to guidelines. Applications must be submitted to the Spanish Consulate or, if applicable, the consulate of the Schengen country where the longest stay is planned. This sought-after visa permits travel for up to 90 days within a 180-day period across the Schengen zone, with its validity subject to the terms of approval. Even a minor error—an incomplete form, a discrepancy in financial documentation—can result in setbacks, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation.
To streamline this process, Tanzanian applicants can utilize the designated visa application center of Spanish Embassy Consulate in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, serving as a crucial link between intention and authorization. This center ensures that every requirement, from biometric data submission to supporting documentation, aligns with Spain’s stringent regulations, reducing the likelihood of procedural delays. Whether for tourism, business, or academic pursuits, the structured approach provided by the center transforms a complex process into a manageable one, setting the stage for an enriching Spanish experience filled with history, culture, and unforgettable exploration.
Categories of Spanish Visas Offered by the Spanish Embassy for Tanzania
For Tanzanian nationals eager to visit Spain, the Spanish Embassy provides multiple short-term visa options, each tailored to specific travel purposes. These visas allow stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in Spain and other Schengen member states. Applicants must provide supporting documents demonstrating their intent, financial stability, and compliance with Schengen regulations.
Types of Schengen Visas for Spain
- Short-Stay Schengen Visa – Grants entry for up to 90 days within a 180-day period across the Schengen Area.
- Airport Transit Visa – Required for travelers transiting through an airport in a Schengen country without entering its territory.
- Visas for Family Members of an EU Citizen – Special provisions for non-EU family members of European Union citizens.
National Visas (Long-Stay Visas)
- Study Visa – For individuals pursuing academic programs in Spain.
- Researcher Visa – For scientific research activities in collaboration with Spanish institutions.
- Internship Visa – For non-remunerated internships as part of professional training or education.
- Family Reunification Visa – Under the general scheme for relatives joining a resident in Spain.
- Employee Visa – For individuals with a job offer from a Spanish employer.
- Self-Employed Work Visa – For entrepreneurs and professionals establishing independent businesses.
- Highly Qualified Workers & Intra-Company Transfer Visa – For professionals and executives transferring within multinational companies or working in high-demand sectors.
- Investor Visa – Under the “Golden Visa” scheme for significant financial investments in Spain.
- Entrepreneur Visa – For individuals establishing innovative business ventures in Spain.
- Non-Working Residence Visa – For individuals seeking residency without employment, typically retirees or those with sufficient financial means.
- Long-Term Residence / EU Long-Term Residence Visa – For individuals residing in Spain for an extended period or seeking EU-wide residency rights.
Navigating the Process: Securing a Spanish Schengen Visa from Tanzania
Embarking on the journey to obtain a Spanish Schengen visa is not merely an administrative requirement but the first step toward experiencing Spain’s rich cultural and historical landscape. Whether you envision yourself strolling along the bustling streets of Madrid, marveling at the architectural brilliance of Barcelona, or indulging in the culinary excellence of San Sebastián, this process demands meticulous attention to detail, patience, and unwavering diligence. To facilitate a seamless application, we outline the seven essential stages that will lead you toward your Spanish adventure.
Step 1: Selecting the Appropriate Visa
The first and most crucial step is identifying the correct visa category, ensuring it aligns with the purpose of your visit. Whether your journey is for tourism, business, academic endeavors, or participation in an international event, each visa type has distinct requirements. Applications must be submitted through the Spanish Embassy Consulate, and any documents not in Spanish or English must be officially translated and certified. Neglecting this requirement could result in unnecessary delays.
Step 2: Completing the Application Form
The Spanish Schengen visa from Tanzania application form, available on the Spanish Embassy official website, must be completed with absolute precision. This document serves as a formal declaration of your intent, and every detail must be accurately recorded to prevent inconsistencies that could jeopardize your application.
Step 3: Scheduling an Appointment
Once your application is prepared, you must schedule an appointment at the Spanish Embassy or Consulate for submission through telephone or email. This appointment is a mandatory step, as it includes the collection of biometric data—fingerprints and photographs—which act as your digital identification. Retaining your appointment confirmation is critical, as losing it could result in delays.
Step 4: Paying the Visa Fee
As with any official process, there is a financial obligation. The Spanish Schengen visa from Tanzania fee varies depending on the age of the applicant, must be paid through the channels specified by the Spanish Embassy or Consulate. This payment signifies your commitment to your journey and must be made in accordance with the prescribed guidelines.
People aged over 12 – 80 euros
Children of 6 to 11 – 40 euros
Children aged 5 and under – 0 euros
Step 5: Submitting Your Application
During your scheduled appointment, you will formally submit your Spanish Schengen visa from Tanzania application at the Spanish Embassy Consulate. At this stage, all required documents must be in perfect order, including proof of accommodation, financial means, and travel insurance. If the applicant is under 16, both parents must provide consent and sign the necessary documentation. Precision in this step is paramount, as any oversight could impact the outcome of your application.
Step 6: Tracking Your Application Status
Once submitted, your Spanish Schengen visa from Tanzania application enters the review process, during which patience becomes essential. The Spanish Embassy or Consulate provides a tracking system through which you can monitor the progress of your application using your unique reference number. Although this phase requires waiting, each update brings you one step closer to fulfilling your travel aspirations.
Step 7: Receiving Your Visa
The culmination of your efforts is the collection or delivery of your passport, now stamped with the coveted Spanish Schengen visa from Tanzania. This document is far more than a mere travel permit—it is your gateway to a land where history, art, and vibrant culture converge. Handle it with care, for it grants you access to Spain’s timeless wonders and unforgettable experiences.
By adhering to these steps with diligence and precision, Tanzanian travelers can navigate the Spanish Schengen visa process with confidence, ensuring a smooth and successful application.
Documentation Requirements for Obtaining a Spanish Schengen Visa from Tanzania
Securing a Spanish Schengen visa from Tanzania requires meticulous preparation and strict adherence to documentation guidelines. This process is not merely a bureaucratic formality but a formal demonstration of your travel intent, financial stability, and commitment to Schengen regulations. Below is a detailed checklist tailored specifically for Tanzanian applicants. To ensure accuracy and stay updated on any changes, it is advisable to consult the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in Tanzania directly.
Required Documents
- Schengen Visa Application Form
- Each applicant must complete and sign the official Schengen visa application form in full.
- For minors, the form must be signed by a parent or legal guardian.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph
- A recent, color, passport-size photograph.
- Taken against a light background, with a neutral expression and no head coverings (except for religious reasons).
- No dark or reflective glasses or any obstructions covering the face.
- For minors, the photograph must not show any part of the adult holding them.
- Valid Passport
- Original passport and a photocopy of biometric data pages.
- Must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure from the Schengen area.
- Contain at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
- Passports issued more than ten years ago are not accepted.
- Travel Medical Insurance
- The policy must cover medical repatriation, urgent healthcare, and emergency hospital treatment throughout the entire Schengen area.
- Minimum coverage of €30,000 (or its equivalent in Tanzanian Shillings).
- For multiple-entry visas, the insurance must be valid for the first planned trip, with a commitment to obtain coverage for subsequent visits.
- Visa Fee Payment
- €80 for applicants over 12 years old.
- €40 for children aged 6 to 11 years.
- Exemptions: Children under 6 years old are not required to pay the visa fee.
- Special fees apply for nationals of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Cabo Verde, and Russia, as per Visa Facilitation Agreements.
- Supporting Documents
- Proof of travel purpose (e.g., tourism, business, study, family visit).
- Evidence of accommodation arrangements (hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Spain).
- Financial proof to demonstrate sufficient funds for the duration of stay (e.g., bank statements from the last three to six months).
- Employment verification or proof of business ownership.
- Travel itinerary showing flight reservations and intended dates of travel.
- Commitment to leave the Schengen area before the visa expiration date.
- Proof of Residence in Tanzania
- A document verifying that the applicant resides within the jurisdiction of the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in Tanzania.
Additional Requirements
- The Consular Office reserves the right to request further documents or summon applicants for a personal interview if necessary for assessing the application.
To enhance the chances of approval, Tanzanian applicants should double-check all documents for accuracy and completeness before submitting their application.
Spanish Embassy in Tanzania Contact Information
Address
99 B Kinondoni Road P.O Box, 842 Dar es Salaam
- E-mail: emb.daressalaam@maec.es
- Consular emergency email: emb.daressal.emerg@maec.es
Telephones and fax
- Telephone from Spain: (+255) 22 266 60 18/19, 266 69 36
- Phones from Tanzania: 266 60 18/19, 266 69 36
- Consular emergency telephone number: (+255) 754 04 21 23
- Fax: (+255 22) 266 69 38
- Consular emergency telephone number
- Calls from Tanzania: 0754 042 123
- Calls from outside Tanzania: 00 255 754 042 123