When applying for a Spanish visa from the UK, ensuring the documents required for a Spanish visa are properly legalised with a UK apostille is essential.

This involves obtaining an apostille from the UK legalisation office. 

Depending on the type of Spanish visa you’re applying for, certain documents must be legalised and translated into Spanish.

As experienced apostille agents in the UK, we’re here to guide you through the legalisation process and help you avoid delays in your visa application.

Below, we outline the key documents that typically require legalisation for various Spanish visa types. ↓

1. Spanish student visa

Intended for individuals pursuing studies in Spain, this visa requires legalising specific documents, some of which are:

ACRO police certificate

Required actions:

  • Obtain the original ACRO police certificate.
  • Get the document legalised with an apostille.
  • Have the document translated into Spanish by a sworn Spanish translator.

Medical certificate

Required actions:

  • Obtain the original medical certificate .
  • Ensure the certificate is signed by an FCDO-registered doctor.
  • Get the document legalised with an apostille.
  • Have the document translated into Spanish by a sworn Spanish translator.

Notes:

  • The medical certificate must be the original document.
  • The translation can be submitted as a digital printout.
  • The apostille certificate itself usually does not need to be translated.

Study visa details: exteriores.gob.es

VFS Spain visa appointment:

 Apostille service details

  • 1 x ACRO + apostille + translation
  • 1 x medical certificate + apostille + translation
  • Turnaround time: 2-3 working days

Total Cost: Please enquire about the latest pricing

Below are examples of other Spanish visa and legalisation requirements.

Generally, documents must always be originals (no photocopies).

Only the original document requires legalisation (with an apostille) and translation.

The apostille certificate itself and the translation do not need legalisation.

Apostilles must authenticate the signatures of the original certificate issuers (such as doctors or police officers), not the signatures of notaries or solicitors who were not involved in creating the documents.

The documents that must be legalised and translated will depend on the requesting authority and visa type.

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  1. Spanish work visa

Designed for individuals with a job offer in Spain, this visa necessitates the legalisation of specific documents, which often are:

  • ACRO police check
  • Medical certificate
  • Proof of representative’s ID & authority (if minor)
  • Degree certificates

 

  1. Spanish family reunification visa

This visa allows family members to join their relatives who are already residing in Spain. The following documents may require legalisation:

  • Marriage certificate
  • Birth certificate

 

  1. Spanish non-lucrative visa

Aimed at retirees or individuals with sufficient financial means, this visa typically requires the legalisation of:

  • Bank statements
  • Proof of income

 

  1. Spanish business visa

For entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish or invest in a business in Spain:

  • Business plans and company registration documents
  • Proof of investment

 

  1. Spanish golden visa

For high-net-worth individuals investing significantly in the Spanish economy:

  • Property deeds or investment agreements
  • Proof of funds

 

  1. Spanish highly qualified professional visa

For individuals with specialised skills or qualifications who have secured a job offer from a Spanish company:

  • Employment contract
  • Educational certificates and professional references

 

  1. Spanish researcher visa

For individuals conducting research or scientific work at a recognised Spanish institution:

  • Research proposal and letter of acceptance
  • Academic qualifications

 

  1. Digital nomad visa

This visa is designed for remote workers and has specific legalisation requirements for documents.

Documents requiring legalisation (for non-Spanish citizens)

  • Criminal record certificate(s): Issued by the applicant’s country or countries of residence for the past two years.
  • Documents submitted by a representative (if applicable): e.g., power of attorney.
  • Documents proving family relationship with the worker (birth or marriage certificates, etc.) for family members applying alongside the main applicant.
  • Documents proving financial dependence and civil status: For adult children of the main applicant
  • Documents proving relatives in the ascending line are in the investor’s care

Note:

  • Additional documents: The Consular Office may request legalisation for other foreign documents not explicitly listed above if they deem it necessary for the application.
  • EU Exception: Official documents issued by a Member State of the European Union do not require legalisation.

Important reminders:

  • Original documents: Always submit original documents for legalisation unless specifically requested otherwise.
  • Apostille: Ensure you obtain the apostille through the UK government or a registered apostille agency.
  • Translation: Legalised documents not in Spanish must be translated into Spanish by a sworn Spanish translator.
  • Specific requirements: Legalisation requirements can vary. Always confirm with the relevant Spanish authorities or consulate for the most up-to-date information.

How we can help

We can assist you with legalisation, from obtaining the apostille to arranging for certified translations.

Contact us today to ensure your documents meet all Spanish consulate requirements and streamline your visa application process.