New Spanish Airport Transit Visa Rules for Russian Travelers in 2025

Key Takeaways

• Starting July 12, 2025, Russian ordinary passport holders must obtain a TAP/ATV to transit Spanish airports.
• Exemptions include valid Schengen visas, EU/EEA residence permits, and diplomatic passport holders.
• Visa applications require official forms, supporting documents, and take up to 15 days to process.

Starting July 12, 2025, Russian travelers with ordinary passports will face a major change when passing through Spanish airports. The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that all Russian citizens in this category must now obtain an airport transit visa (TAP/ATV) if they wish to transit through the international zones of any Spanish airport—even if they do not plan to leave the airport or enter the Schengen Area. This new rule marks a significant shift in Spain’s approach to airport transit for Russian nationals and aligns with broader European Union efforts to tighten entry requirements amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

What’s Changing and Who Is Affected?

Who: All Russian travelers holding ordinary (regular) passports
What: Must obtain an airport transit visa (TAP/ATV) to transit through Spanish airports
When: Requirement begins July 12, 2025
Where: All Spanish airports with international transit zones
Why: To enhance security and migration control, in line with EU policy
How: By applying for a TAP/ATV before travel

This new requirement means that Russian travelers who are simply changing planes in Spain, even if they never leave the airport, will need to secure a visa in advance. The rule applies to all Spanish airports, regardless of the city or region.

Who Is Exempt from the New Rule?

Not every Russian traveler will need to apply for this visa. The following groups are exempt:

• Holders of a valid Schengen visa: If you already have a visa that allows entry into the Schengen Area, you do not need a separate airport transit visa.
• Holders of another valid entry visa: For example, a visa for another country that allows you to enter Spain or the Schengen Area.
• Holders of a residence permit from any EU/EEA member state: If you live legally in a European Union or European Economic Area country, you are exempt.
• Holders of diplomatic passports: Diplomats are not required to obtain the TAP/ATV.

If you do not fall into one of these categories, you must apply for the airport transit visa before your trip.

Why Is Spain Making This Change?

Spain’s decision to require an airport transit visa for Russian travelers is not happening in isolation. Over the past few years, several European countries have tightened their visa and transit rules for Russian nationals. The United Kingdom and Czechia have already canceled visa-free airport transit for Russians, and other Schengen countries have restricted or suspended visa issuance for Russian citizens.

The main reasons behind these changes are:

• Security concerns: The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has led to increased scrutiny of Russian travelers across Europe.
• Migration control: The European Union wants to reduce illegal migration and ensure that only those with proper documentation can enter or transit through its territory.
• Policy alignment: Spain is aligning its rules with broader EU efforts to create a consistent approach to Russian travelers.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these changes reflect a growing trend across Europe to limit the movement of Russian nationals in response to current geopolitical events.

What Does the Airport Transit Visa (TAP/ATV) Allow?

The airport transit visa is a special type of visa that allows travelers to pass through the international transit zone of an airport in Spain without entering the country or the Schengen Area. Here’s what you need to know:

• Maximum layover: You can stay in the international transit zone for up to 24 hours.
• No entry into Spain or Schengen Area: You must remain inside the airport’s international zone and cannot leave the airport or enter Spain or any other Schengen country during your layover.
• Single transit: The visa is typically valid for a single transit through a Spanish airport.

If your layover is longer than 24 hours or you need to leave the airport for any reason, you will need a different type of visa.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Spanish Airport Transit Visa

Applying for the airport transit visa involves several steps. It’s important to start the process early, as processing times can be lengthy.

1. Complete the Official Visa Application Form

You must fill out the official Spanish visa application form. This form is available from the Spanish consulate or authorized visa application centers in your country of residence. You can find the form and instructions on the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

2. Gather Required Documents

You will need to provide several documents as part of your application:

• Recent passport-sized photograph
• Passport with biometric data: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned transit date and have at least two blank pages.
• Proof of onward travel: This could be a confirmed flight booking showing your next destination after Spain.
• Proof of legal residence: If you are applying from a country other than Russia, you must show that you are legally allowed to live there.
• Payment of the consular fee: The fee is non-refundable and must be paid when you submit your application.

3. Submit Your Application

Applications must be submitted in person at the Spanish consulate or an authorized visa center in your country of residence. You may need to make an appointment in advance, so check the consulate’s website for details.

4. Wait for Processing

• Standard processing time: Up to 15 calendar days
• Extended processing: Up to 45 days if additional documents or checks are needed

It’s wise to apply as early as possible, as delays can occur, especially during busy travel seasons.

5. Attend an Interview (If Required)

In some cases, the consulate may ask you to attend a personal interview or provide extra documents. If this happens, follow the instructions given by the consulate.

6. Collect Your Visa

Once your application is approved, you will be notified to collect your visa. Make sure all details are correct before you travel.

What Happens If You Don’t Have the Required Visa?

If you arrive at a Spanish airport without the necessary airport transit visa, you will not be allowed to board your connecting flight or continue your journey. Airlines are required to check that all passengers have the correct documents before allowing them to board flights to Spain. If you do not have the visa, you may be denied boarding at your departure airport or refused transit in Spain.

Key point: Always check the latest requirements with the Spanish consulate or visa center before booking your travel.

Practical Effects for Russian Travelers

The new airport transit visa requirement means Russian travelers must plan ahead and allow extra time for visa processing. Here are some practical tips:

• Start early: Begin your visa application process as soon as you know your travel dates.
• Check exemptions: If you have a valid Schengen visa, EU/EEA residence permit, or diplomatic passport, you do not need the TAP/ATV.
• Prepare documents: Make sure your passport is valid and you have all required paperwork.
• Expect extra costs: There is a non-refundable fee for the visa application.
• Monitor updates: Rules may change, so always check official sources before traveling.

If you fail to obtain the required visa, you risk being denied boarding or transit, which could disrupt your travel plans and lead to extra expenses.

Why Are Other Countries Making Similar Changes?

Spain is not alone in tightening airport transit rules for Russian travelers. The United Kingdom and Czechia have already ended visa-free airport transit for Russian citizens. Many other Schengen countries have also suspended or restricted visa issuance for Russians.

These changes are part of a wider EU response to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and related security concerns. By making it harder for Russian nationals to move freely through European airports, countries hope to reduce illegal migration and prevent security risks.

EU policy analysts expect that more countries may introduce similar or even stricter rules in the future. Russian travelers should be prepared for further changes and always check the latest information before planning trips through Europe.

What Should Travelers Do Now?

If you are a Russian citizen planning to transit through a Spanish airport after July 12, 2025, here’s what you should do:

1. Check if you need the airport transit visa: Review the exemption list carefully.
2. Visit the Spanish consulate website: Find the latest information, application forms, and appointment booking details.
3. Gather your documents: Make sure you have everything required for the application.
4. Apply early: Allow plenty of time for processing, especially if you are traveling during busy periods.
5. Stay informed: Monitor official sources for any updates or changes to the rules.

For more details, visit the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs official website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I leave the airport during my layover in Spain with an airport transit visa?
A: No. The airport transit visa only allows you to stay in the international transit zone of the airport. You cannot leave the airport or enter Spain or the Schengen Area.

Q: What if my layover is longer than 24 hours?
A: The airport transit visa is only valid for up to 24 hours. If your layover is longer, you will need to apply for a different type of visa.

Q: Are there any exceptions for family members of EU citizens?
A: Only the exemptions listed above apply. If you are a family member of an EU citizen, check with the Spanish consulate for any special rules.

Q: How much does the airport transit visa cost?
A: The fee varies by country but is non-refundable. Check with your local Spanish consulate for the exact amount.

Q: Can I apply online?
A: Applications must be submitted in person at the consulate or authorized visa center. Some centers may allow you to book appointments online.

Official Resources and Contact Information

• Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
  • Website: exteriores.gob.es
  • Email for visa inquiries: [email protected]
• Spanish Consulates:
  • Find contact details and appointment booking on the official consulate websites in your country.
• Visa Application Centers:
  • Check the official Spanish consulate or embassy website for your area for forms, appointments, and requirements.

Summary Table: Key Points of the New Spanish Airport Transit Visa Requirement

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Russian Travelers?

As the European Union continues to respond to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, more changes to visa and transit rules for Russian nationals are likely. Spanish authorities have made it clear that the new airport transit visa requirement is part of a broader effort to improve security and control migration. EU policy analysts expect other countries may soon introduce similar or even stricter rules.

Travel and immigration experts recommend that Russian travelers:

• Check requirements for all countries on their route, not just Spain.
• Monitor official government websites for the latest updates.
• Plan for extra time and costs when booking flights that transit through Europe.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, the trend toward tighter controls is expected to continue, and travelers should remain alert to new developments.

Final Takeaways

The new airport transit visa requirement for Russian travelers passing through Spanish airports is a significant change with immediate effects. If you are planning to transit through Spain after July 12, 2025, check your visa status, gather your documents, and apply early to avoid travel disruptions. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your local Spanish consulate.

By staying informed and preparing ahead, Russian travelers can ensure smooth transit through Spanish airports and avoid unexpected problems during their journeys.

Learn Today

Airport Transit Visa (TAP/ATV) → A visa allowing travelers to pass through a Spanish airport’s international transit zone without entering Spain or Schengen.
Schengen Area → A group of European countries with open borders allowing visa-free travel and common visa policies.
Biometric Passport → A passport containing embedded microchips storing the holder’s biometric data for identification and security.
Consular Fee → A non-refundable charge paid when submitting a visa application to cover processing costs.
EU/EEA Residence Permit → Legal authorization allowing non-EU citizens to live and transit within European Union or European Economic Area countries.

This Article in a Nutshell

From July 2025, Russian travelers with regular passports need a Spanish airport transit visa (TAP/ATV) even without leaving airports. This change enhances security amid geopolitical tensions, aligning Spain with broader EU policies. Exceptions apply for valid Schengen visas, residence permits, and diplomats, requiring early preparation and documentation for transit.
— By VisaVerge.com