Spain to Require Airport Transit Visas for Russian Nationals Starting July 12

Starting July 12, 2025, Russian citizens holding ordinary passports will be required to obtain an airport transit visa (TAP) in order to pass through the international transit zones of Spanish airports. The measure, announced by Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aims to align with broader EU security and migration policy trends.

Once in effect, only Russian nationals with a valid TAP visa will be allowed to take connecting flights via Spanish airports. Those without one will be denied entry to the transit areas, regardless of the final destination.

Who Is Exempt?

The visa requirement does not apply to all Russian travelers. Exemptions include:

• Holders of valid Schengen visas or other types of visas issued by EU or Schengen countries
• Russian citizens who possess a residence permit from an EU or EEA member state
• Diplomatic passport holders

These individuals may continue to transit through Spain without a TAP visa.

Transit Must Be Within 24 Hours

In line with current transit regulations, travelers with an approved TAP visa must complete their airport transit within 24 hours. Staying in the transit area beyond this time frame could violate visa terms and lead to entry refusal.

Application Requirements for TAP Visa

Russian nationals applying for the airport transit visa must:

• Complete the official TAP visa application form
• Submit a recent passport-sized photograph
• Provide copies of passport pages with biometric data
• Show proof of onward travel from Spain (e.g., a connecting flight booking)
• Submit proof of legal residence in Russia
• Pay the mandatory consular visa fee

Processing Times

The Spanish authorities typically process airport transit visa applications within 15 calendar days. However, the review period may extend to up to 45 days if additional documentation or background checks are required.

Broader Context: A Shift Across Europe

Spain’s move follows similar decisions by other EU countries. Czechia has already implemented an airport transit visa requirement for Russians, while several other Schengen member states have halted the issuance of short-stay visas for Russian citizens entirely.

These developments reflect the EU's tightening stance on visa access amid ongoing security, migration, and geopolitical concerns.