Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
Nationals of certain countries transiting through a Spanish international airport without entering Schengen.
The Airport Transit Visa (Type A) is a Spanish visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€90) and processing time (~15 days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) is for
Nationals of certain countries transiting through a Spanish international airport without entering Schengen.
No path to residence; transit only.
Airport Transit Visa (Type A) - eligibility criteria
- National of a listed country requiring transit visa
- Confirmed onward flight to a non-Schengen destination
- Valid passport and any visa for the destination country
- Remain within the airport international transit area
Airport Transit Visa (Type A) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) (Spain) is ~€90, with an indicative processing time of ~15 days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
| Type | Transit |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a Spanish consulate or visa centre abroad |
| Length of stay | Airport international zone only |
| Work rights | No work permitted |
| Study rights | Not applicable |
| Government fee | ~€90 |
| Processing time | ~15 days |
| Route to PR | No path to residence; transit only. |
Pathway & next steps
No path to residence; transit only.
Many applicants also compare Schengen C · Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Spanish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Airport Transit Visa (Type A) pitfalls we fix
Airport Transit Visa (Type A) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) cost?
The Airport Transit Visa (Type A) government fee is ~€90. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs before applying.
How long does the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~15 days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) lead to permanent residence?
No path to residence; transit only.
Can I work on the Airport Transit Visa (Type A)?
Work rights: No work permitted.
Who can apply for the Airport Transit Visa (Type A)?
Nationals of certain countries transiting through a Spanish international airport without entering Schengen.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Spain government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Spain - Ministry of Foreign Affairs - official Spain immigration authority