Application Process

Nicaraguan citizens must apply for a Schengen visa at the Spanish Embassy or designated visa application center.1 The process involves several steps:

1. Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary documents: passport, completed application form, photograph, travel insurance, flight reservations, accommodation proof, financial evidence, and employment documentation.3

2. Complete the Application Form

Download and fill out the Schengen visa application form from the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.1 Sign the form in all required places.

3. Schedule Your Appointment

Book an appointment at the Spanish Embassy or visa application center in Nicaragua. Apply at least 15 days before travel but no more than 6 months in advance.3

4. Attend Your Appointment

Submit your application and documents in person. Your biometric data (fingerprints and photo) will be collected. Pay the €80 visa fee.1

5. Wait for Processing

Standard processing takes 15 calendar days.1 Complex cases may take up to 45 days. You will be notified when a decision is made.

6. Collect Your Passport

Once approved, collect your passport with the Schengen visa sticker. Check all details including validity dates and number of entries.

Fees

Additional visa application center service fees may apply.1 Fees are non-refundable even if the visa is denied.

What You Need to Prove

Spanish consular officers must be satisfied that you:4

• Have a clear purpose for visiting Spain and the Schengen area
• Can financially support your trip without working
• Have valid travel insurance meeting Schengen requirements
• Will leave before your 90 days expire
• Maintain strong ties to Nicaragua ensuring your return

Processing Times

Standard processing time is 15 calendar days from your application date.1

Processing may extend to 45 days if:

• Additional documentation is required
• Your case requires further examination
• Third-party consultation is needed
• High application volumes during peak season

Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date.

Schengen Area Access

Your Spain Schengen visa grants access to all 29 Schengen member states:4

EU Schengen Members: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden

Non-EU Schengen Members: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland

You can travel freely between these countries during your 90-day period.

After Your Visa is Approved

Once approved, verify your visa details:

• Validity period (from/until dates)
• Number of entries (single, double, or multiple)
• Duration of stay (maximum 90 days)
• Your name and passport number

At the Spanish border, you may be asked to show:

• Return or onward ticket
• Proof of accommodation
• Travel insurance certificate
• Sufficient funds (approximately €100/day)

If Your Visa is Refused

If refused, you will receive written notification with reasons.1 You can:

1. Reapply immediately with stronger documentation addressing the issues
2. Appeal the decision under Spanish administrative law
3. Request reconsideration if there was an error in processing

A refusal does not permanently prevent you from obtaining a Schengen visa. Address the specific reasons cited and reapply when ready.

Important Notes

• 90/180 Rule: You can stay maximum 90 days within any 180-day period in the entire Schengen area, not 90 days per country
• Main destination: Apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend most time
• Entry point: If visiting multiple countries equally, apply at the embassy of your first entry country
• ETIAS: A new travel authorization system (ETIAS) may be implemented in the future, but currently Nicaraguans require a full Schengen visa