Overview
Spain is a member of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP): Spanish nationals travelling to the United States for tourism or business of up to 90 days need an ESTA, not a visa. For longer stays, study, work, or immigration, Spanish applicants apply at the U.S. Embassy in Madrid or the Consulate General in Barcelona. The embassy and consulate together cover all of Spain and Andorra. Embassy address: Calle de Serrano, 75, 28006 Madrid.
Visa Services
As a VWP member, Spanish nationals use ESTA for short-stay tourism and business. The embassy and consulate in Barcelona process visas not covered by ESTA: F-1 student, J-1 exchange, H/L/O work visas, K-1 fiancé, E-1/E-2 treaty trader/investor, and all immigrant visa types. Madrid is the sole post in Spain for immigrant visa interviews. Appointments are booked online at es.usembassy.gov.
Consular Services
The American Citizen Services (ACS) unit at the embassy serves the large U.S. citizen community in Spain — residents, students, and tourists — with passport renewals, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, notarial acts, and emergency assistance. The Consulate General in Barcelona provides the same services for its district. U.S. citizens should register with STEP.
Trade & Export Support
The U.S. Commercial Service at the embassy promotes U.S. exports to Spain in sectors including renewable energy, information technology, aerospace, and medical equipment. It provides market intelligence, business matchmaking, and advocacy for U.S. firms in the Spanish market.
Investment Opportunities
Spanish companies are significant investors in the United States, particularly in renewable energy, infrastructure, and financial services. The SelectUSA programme connects Spanish investors with opportunities in the U.S. market.
Business Support
The embassy's Economic Section supports U.S. businesses in Spain with market analysis, investment climate information, and engagement on trade policy. Spain is a significant U.S. trade and investment partner and a major entry point for U.S. companies in the European market.
Cultural & Educational Programs
The Public Affairs section manages the U.S.-Spain Fulbright Commission for academic exchanges, and supports cultural events, speaker programmes, and English-language initiatives. Spain and the U.S. have strong ties through tourism, education, and a large Spanish-heritage community in the United States.
Appointment Information
Visa appointments are booked online at es.usembassy.gov. Spanish nationals using ESTA do not need a visa appointment. ACS appointments at the embassy are also booked on the same portal. Embassy: Calle de Serrano, 75, 28006 Madrid. Phone: +34 91 587 2200. Consulate General: Barcelona.
Special Notes
Spanish nationals travelling to the U.S. for tourism or business up to 90 days need an ESTA, not a visa. Only longer stays, study, work, or immigration require a visa. The embassy is in Madrid's Salamanca district; all visitors pass security screening. Large bags and most electronics not permitted inside.