Spain Schengen Visa
Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) · For Dominican Republic citizens
Planning a trip to Spain as a Dominican citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Schengen visa application: required documents, the current fee of €90, processing times of 15 days, and strategies to improve your chances. A Spain Schengen visa grants access to all 29 Schengen states in Europe.
Spain Schengen Visa for Dominican Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Dominican Republic citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must meet specific Schengen requirements
Complete and sign the official Schengen visa application form
Recent passport-sized photographs meeting Schengen standards
Valid travel insurance covering all Schengen countries
Proof of round-trip flight arrangements
Documentation showing where you will stay in Spain
Proof of sufficient funds for your trip
Documentation proving your employment or income status
Fingerprints collected at the visa application center
Application Process
All applications must be submitted at the BLS Spain Visa Application Centre in Santo Domingo.1 The process involves several steps:
1. Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents including your passport, photos, travel insurance, flight reservations, hotel bookings, bank statements, and employment evidence.2 Use the official checklist from the BLS website.
2. Book an Appointment
Schedule an appointment online at the BLS Spain Visa website.1 Appointments must be booked in advance and are subject to availability.
3. Submit Application
Attend your appointment at the visa application center with all documents.1 Your biometrics (fingerprints) will be collected. Pay the visa fee and any service charges.
4. Track Your Application
Use the tracking system on the BLS website to monitor your application status.1 Processing typically takes 15 calendar days.
5. Collect Your Passport
Once processing is complete, collect your passport from the visa application center or opt for courier delivery if available.1
Fees
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Adults (12 years and older) | €90 |
| Children (6-11 years) | €45 |
| Children (under 6 years) | Free |
| Service Fee (BLS) | Additional charges apply |
The visa fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.3 BLS service charges are separate from the visa fee.
What You Need to Prove
To obtain a Schengen visa for Spain, you must demonstrate:3
- Genuine travel purpose: Clear reason for visiting Spain for tourism
- Sufficient financial means: Ability to cover all expenses during your stay (approximately €100 per day)
- Travel insurance: Valid medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
- Intent to return: Strong ties to the Dominican Republic ensuring you will leave before your visa expires
- Valid travel documents: Passport meeting all Schengen requirements
Processing Times
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days from your application submission.3
Processing may take longer (up to 45 days) if:3
- Additional documentation is required
- Your application needs further scrutiny
- Peak travel season increases application volume
To avoid delays:
- Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your planned travel date
- Submit all required documents in the correct format
- Ensure all information is accurate and consistent
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your Schengen visa will be placed in your passport. Check the visa sticker carefully for:
- Validity dates: The period during which you can enter the Schengen area
- Duration of stay: The maximum number of days you can stay (up to 90)
- Number of entries: Single, double, or multiple entries
- Territory: Should state “SCHENGEN STATES” or specific countries
At the Spanish border, be prepared to show:
- Valid passport with Schengen visa
- Return flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation
- Travel insurance
- Evidence of sufficient funds
If Your Visa is Refused
If your Schengen visa application is refused, you will receive a written notification explaining the reasons.3 You have two options:
- Appeal the decision: Submit an appeal within the timeframe specified in your refusal letter
- Reapply: Submit a new application with improved documentation addressing the reasons for refusal
Common steps after refusal:
- Carefully review the refusal reasons
- Gather additional evidence to address the concerns
- Consider consulting with a visa specialist
- Wait for changed circumstances if the refusal was based on your personal situation
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Means
Bank statements do not demonstrate sufficient funds to cover the trip or show unstable financial patterns.
How to avoid: Show at least €100 per day of your planned stay. Provide 3-6 months of statements with consistent income and avoid recent large deposits.
Weak Ties to Home Country
Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to the Dominican Republic after the visit.
How to avoid: Include employment letter, property documents, family certificates, and evidence of ongoing commitments in Dominican Republic.
Incomplete or Inconsistent Documentation
Missing required documents or information that contradicts other parts of the application.
How to avoid: Follow the document checklist exactly. Ensure all dates, names, and details are consistent across documents.
Invalid Travel Insurance
Insurance does not meet Schengen requirements for coverage amount or territory.
How to avoid: Purchase insurance specifically designed for Schengen visa applications with minimum €30,000 coverage across all member states.
Unconvincing Travel Purpose
The stated purpose of visit is vague or does not match the applicant's profile.
How to avoid: Provide a detailed itinerary. If visiting for a specific event, include proof of registration or invitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Spain with a Schengen visa?
A short-stay Schengen visa allows you to stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to the entire Schengen area, not just Spain.
Can I visit other European countries with a Spain Schengen visa?
Yes, a Schengen visa issued by Spain allows you to travel freely within all 29 Schengen member states, including France, Germany, Italy, and others.
What is the Spain Schengen visa fee for Dominicans in 2025?
The visa fee is €90 for adults and €45 for children aged 6-11. Children under 6 are exempt from the fee. The fee is non-refundable.
How far in advance should I apply for a Spain Schengen visa?
Apply at least 15 days before your planned travel date, but you can apply up to 6 months in advance. Early application is recommended during peak travel seasons.
Where do I apply for a Spain Schengen visa in Dominican Republic?
Applications are submitted at the BLS Spain Visa Application Centre in Santo Domingo. You must book an appointment online before visiting.
Do I need travel insurance for a Schengen visa?
Yes, travel medical insurance is mandatory. It must provide minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid in all Schengen countries.
Can I work in Spain on a Schengen tourist visa?
No, the short-stay Schengen visa does not permit any form of employment. If you need to work, you must apply for a work visa.
What happens if my Schengen visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation or appeal the decision within the timeframe specified in your refusal notice.