Imagine yourself strolling along the sunny beaches of Barcelona, feeling the vibrant energy of Madrid, or tasting the finest tapas in Seville. Spain, with its rich history, passionate culture, and diverse landscapes, awaits travelers from around the world—including those from Gambia. If you’re a Gambian citizen with Spain on your travel bucket list, applying for a Spanish Schengen Visa is your gateway to exploring not only Spain but also many other European countries.
Why Apply for a Spanish Schengen Visa?
For Gambian travelers, a Spanish Schengen Visa offers a unique opportunity to experience the charm and culture of Spain and the wider Schengen Area, a zone encompassing 26 European countries.
Here’s why it’s worth the journey:
Cultural Immersion in Spain
Spain has something to offer every traveler. You can explore ancient castles, marvel at modernist architecture, lose yourself in the lively flamenco rhythms of Andalusia, or indulge in the vibrant nightlife of Madrid. Your Schengen visa lets you immerse yourself in these unique experiences without restrictions.
Cross-Border Access Across Europe
With a Spanish Schengen Visa, you’re not limited to Spain. You have the freedom to visit neighboring countries like Italy and France, as well as other European nations in the Schengen Zone. Each country offers something different, explore France’s renowned museums, or relax by Italy’s scenic coastline.
For travelers from countries such as Jamaica, Belarus, Algeria, Zimbabwe, Lebanon, Vietnam, Thailand, and Azerbaijan who are excited to explore Spain and the broader Schengen Area, applying for a Spanish Schengen Visa is the first step toward an unforgettable experience. Each applicant must fulfill specific visa requirements and collect essential documents. To make the process easier, here are links to helpful resources offering country-specific guidance, embassy contacts, and detailed step-by-step instructions.
Applicant Statistics of Italian Schengen Visa from Gambia
Statistics on Italian Schengen Visa applications from Gambia.
Journey to Spain: The Spanish Schengen Visa Pathway for Gambian Travelers
For Gambian citizens dreaming of Spain—whether it’s the dynamic cities, the sun-drenched beaches, or the chance to connect with a rich cultural heritage—obtaining a Spanish Schengen visa is your gateway to adventure. This essential visa allows non-EU travelers to experience not only Spain but also the wider Schengen Area, providing access to many European countries with ease. Once granted, the visa allows you to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, based on its validity.
To start the process, Gambian applicants can apply through the BLS Visa Application Center in Senegal, which handles all Spanish Schengen visa applications. As the official service provider for Spanish visas, BLS International offers a streamlined experience, managing your documentation and providing comprehensive support. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or even study, the dedicated team at BLS is there to guide you at every step, ensuring a smooth journey toward your Spanish adventure.
Categories of Spanish Visas Offered by the Spanish Embassy for Gambian Travelers
The Spanish Embassy provides several visa categories to meet various travel needs for Gambian citizens:
Short-Term Visas:
- Tourist Visa: For short leisure trips to explore Spain’s attractions.
- Business Visa: For attending meetings, conferences, or business-related activities.
- Family Visit Visa: For visiting family members residing in Spain.
- Student Visa: For short study programs or courses.
- Sports/Cultural/Artistic Visa: For participation in sports, cultural events, or artistic performances.
- Medical Visit Visa: For receiving medical treatment in Spain.
- Transit Visa: For passing through Spain en route to another destination.
Long-Term Visas:
- Student Visa: For full-time study programs lasting more than 90 days.
- Work Visa: For those employed in Spain on a long-term basis.
- Residence Visa: For individuals planning to live in Spain.
- Family Visa: For joining immediate family members residing in Spain.
- Family Reunification Visa: For reuniting with family members who are legal residents of Spain.
Each visa category has specific requirements to ensure applicants receive the visa suited to their intended purpose in Spain.
Application Guide for Securing a Spanish Schengen Visa from Gambia
If you’re a Gambian citizen looking to visit Spain, the Spanish Schengen visa application process involves several key steps, each designed to ensure a smooth and efficient experience. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you secure your Spanish Schengen visa:
Step 1: Choose Your Visa Type
Step 2: Complete Your Visa Application
Step 3: Schedule Your Appointment
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fees
Step 5: Visit the Visa Application Center
Step 6: Track Your Application Status
Step 7: Collect Your Passport
Step 1: Choose Your Visa Type
Start by identifying the exact type of visa you need based on your travel purpose from BLS International website, whether for tourism, business, family visits, studies, or medical treatment. Each visa type has specific requirements, so selecting the correct category ensures your application meets the standards set by the Spanish consulate.
Step 2: Complete Your Visa Application
After determining your visa type, download the Spanish Schengen visa from Gambia application form from the BLS International website. Complete the form accurately, ensuring each section is filled out precisely as required. Print the form and gather all necessary supporting documents that align with your chosen visa type to prepare for submission.
Step 3: Schedule Your Appointment
Booking an appointment is essential to submit your biometric data, including a photograph and fingerprints. Schedule your appointment at least 15 days before your intended travel date, or up to six months in advance if possible. Appointments are booked online via the BLS International website by creating an account and selecting a convenient time slot for your biometric submission. For Gambians Mobile Biometric appointments are booked.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fees
Be prepared to pay the visa application fees, payment is usually processed during your appointment, but confirm the payment details with the BLS center to avoid delays.
Spanish Schengen Visa Fee for 12 and above: XOF 59,000
Spanish Schengen Visa Fee for 6 to 12 years: XOF 30,000
Spanish Schengen Visa Fee for below 6 years: XOF 0
BLS International Service charge: XOF 11,000
Step 5: Visit the Visa Application Center
On your appointment day, bring all required documents, the completed Spanish Schengen Visa from Gambia application form, and the visa fee to the BLS Visa Application Center in Senegal. The staff will assist you in verifying and submitting your application, ensuring all documentation is in order.
Step 6: Track Your Application Status
After submission, you can track the status of your Spanish Schengen visa application online through the BLS tracking service. This convenient feature allows you to monitor progress without needing to revisit the application center.
Step 7: Collect Your Passport
When your visa application is processed, you’ll receive a notification to collect your passport. If approved, your Spanish Schengen Visa will be stamped in your passport, ready to accompany you on your journey to Spain and beyond in the Schengen Area.
By following these steps with attention to detail, Gambian travelers can secure their Spanish Schengen Visa efficiently, opening the door to a memorable European adventure.
Spanish Schengen Visa from Gambia Application Guide: Essential Documents and Submission Process
Applying for a Spanish Schengen Visa as a Gambian citizen requires specific documents and careful adherence to guidelines. This concise guide highlights the essential steps and documentation needed for a successful application:
Application Form
Complete the Schengen visa application form, signed in blue ink. Attach three recent (35-45 mm) photos with a white background.
Sworn Declaration
A sworn declaration form is mandatory with your application form.
Photographs
Attach two recent photos (35-45 mm) with a white background, especially for applications submitted in Dakar.
Application Fee Payment
For applications at the Embassy in Dakar, pay via bank draft, including your full name, birth date, and passport number on the back.
Valid Passport
Present a passport with at least two blank pages, valid for three months after your intended stay, issued within the last 10 years. Submit photocopies of all passport pages.
Old Passports
Submit all previous passports; if unavailable, provide a police report or a covering letter explaining the absence.
Cover Letter
Provide a detailed cover letter explaining your trip’s purpose and listing any travel companions.
Invitation Letter
If visiting for business, include an invitation letter in Spanish (or bilingual with English), explaining the purpose and nature of your visit.
Financial Documents
Submit personal bank statements for the last three months with original bank stamps, showing a minimum closing balance of €589.68. Additional daily funds may be required for longer stays.
Income Tax Returns and Salary Slips
Provide income tax returns for the last three years and recent salary slips (last six months).
Travel Insurance
Insurance with a minimum €30,000 coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid throughout the Schengen Zone and covering the entire trip, is essential.
Flight and Hotel Bookings
Confirmed flight itinerary and hotel bookings where you plan to stay during your stay matching your travel dates.
Authorization Form
An authorization form signed by the applicant, allowing BLS International to submit documents, receive notifications, and collect the passport on behalf of the applicant.
Family Visa Requirements
Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificates) is required for family visas. Non-English/Spanish documents must be translated.
By following these steps and submitting the necessary documentation, Gambian applicants can ensure a streamlined process for their Spanish Schengen Visa application.
Spain BLS International Contact Information
Address:
133, Avenue Lamine Gueye, Jules Ferry, Immeuble Alyama, 4th floor, Dakar, Senegal
Timings:
Passport Collection Time
15:00 to 16:30 hrs (Monday to Friday)
Submission Time
09:00 to 15:00 hrs (Monday to Friday)
Contact:
Phone
+221 33 920 15 30
info.dkr@blshelpline.com
