A visa lets you enter Spain. A residence permit lets you stay. You get the visa first, then convert to residence after arrival.
Visa
- Authorization to enter Spain
- Issued by Spanish consulate abroad
- Sticker in your passport
- Valid 90 days to 1 year
- Lets you start the residence process
Residence Permit
- Authorization to live in Spain
- Issued by Spanish immigration after arrival
- Comes as TIE card
- Valid 1-5 years depending on type
The Process
- Apply for visa at consulate
- Get visa in passport
- Travel to Spain
- Register and apply for TIE within 30 days
- Receive TIE card
Key Points
- Tourist visas do not lead to residence
- Long-stay visas (work, Digital Nomad) convert to residence
- Register within the required timeframe or risk problems
- Residence permits renew; visas are one-time
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and administrative practices may change frequently, and the information provided may be simplified or incomplete. The content should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal advice. Each situation must be assessed individually. Reading this article does not create a lawyer–client relationship with Legal Fournier.
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Immigration and relocation cases can vary depending on each person’s circumstances. You may schedule a 45-minute legal consultation with Legal Fournier to review your case and discuss the available options.
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Immigration and relocation cases can vary depending on each person’s circumstances. You may schedule a 45-minute legal consultation with Legal Fournier to review your case and discuss the available options.
Schedule a Consultation