How to Apply for a Spain Tourist Visa in Qatar

The Philippines and Spain share a history. It should not come as a surprise that the two countries have similar cultures, words, and cuisine. 

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For Filipinos who wish to visit Spain, a tourist visa is a must. This visa will allow you to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period and grants entry to other countries adhering to the Schengen Borders Code.

Spanish cuisine

Tourist Visa Application for Filipinos

Filipinos who are planning to visit this Iberian country for a short stay can do so by applying for a tourist or Schengen visa. While this visa allows you to enter other nearby countries under the Schengen agreement, there may be instances where you may not be allowed entry. 

Requirements for Visa Application

To begin your application, you need to prepare these documents:

  • Schengen visa application form: Fill out all the needed information.
  • Passport size photograph: Should have a light background. The application must not wear dark or reflective sunglasses. Headgear will only be allowed if it is worn for religious purposes. 
  • Passport: It should be valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned stay in the Schengen states. It must also have been issued in the last 10 years. The passport should also have at least 2 blank pages left.
  • Visa fee payment 
  • Travel medical insurance: The coverage must at least be € 30,000. It should cover the cost of repatriation for medical reasons or death, urgent healthcare, and emergency hospital treatment. The coverage should be valid throughout the Schengen area. 
  • Other documents proving the purpose of your travel, proof of financial means, and evidence that you will leave when the visa expires
  • Qatar ID and other proof of residence in the consular district

Note: The consular office may request additional documents to help in the processing of your application.

Procedures for Visa Application

Now that you have the documents in order, you can then proceed with the visa application at the embassy. Follow these steps to have your visa in no time:

Step 1. Prepare the necessary documents and then request an appointment with the consular office. For added convenience, you can also visit the Visa Application Centre.

Step 2. Go to the Consular office or the Visa Application Center in person to submit the documents. 

Step 3. Pay the visa processing fee. Upon payment, you will receive a code to help you check the status of your application,

Step 4. Provide facial image and fingerprints. If the applicant is less than 12 years old and has previously submitted their biometrics, there is no need to go through this procedure again

Step 5. Wait for the visa to be processed. Processing usually takes 15 to 45 days, and the consular office may ask for additional information if needed.

Step 6. Receive the result. If the application is successful, you will receive the visa stamp in your passport. Otherwise, you will receive an explanation for the visa denial.

Note: You should allocate plenty of time for your visa application. The earliest you can apply is 6 months before your intended flight, while the latest would be two weeks before your departure. 

Visa Application Fees

Here is the list of visa fees:

  • Adult: € 80
  • Children 6 to 11 years: € 40
  • Children 5 years and below: FREE

Video: Tourist Visa Application

In this YouTube video of “Pinoy Mr & Mrs Vlogs,” you can get an idea of how to apply for a tourist visa for Spain. The vlogger is based in England, and has a family member with a Philippine passport. 

She shares some tips on how to prepare the necessary documents. Additionally, she discusses the differences between applying from the Philippines and applying from other countries.

You can watch the full video here:

Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on personal experiences that the vlogger shared in the video. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the vlogger by commenting on their video or on their social media accounts.

Address and Contact Details of the Embassy of Spain in Qatar

  • Address: Villa Number 9, Saha Street 93, Wadi Umm Sarma (Street number 563, Zone 66), Doha, Qatar
  • Telephone Number: +974 4429 0555
  • Fax Number: +974 4483 5887
  • Email address: emb.doha.sc@maec.es (consulate)
  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/EmbEspCatar
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpainEmbassyQatar/

Map of the Embassy of Spain in Qatar

Getting from Qatar to Spain

The three common destinations to Spain are: Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga. Meanwhile, popular airlines that fly to Spain include Qatar Airways, Oman Air, and Iberia. 

The travel time from Qatar to Spain is 7 to 8 hours on a direct flight between the two countries. The lowest ticket price could be as low as QAR 319. According to travelers, you can find cheaper rates if you travel to Spain in March, while ticket prices tend to go up in June.

Popular Places to Visit in Spain

Located on the Iberian Peninsula, Spain offers tourists ancient architecture, fun activities, and fine cuisine. The shared language and culture between Spain and the Philippines are a result of Spain’s former colonial rule.

If you want to explore the similarities between the two countries, consider touring Spain and experiencing the local way of life. Not only can you visit the popular tourist destinations, but you can also explore off-the-beaten-path places less frequented by tourists. Here are some suggestions:

Madrid

The country’s capital city offers plenty of attractions for tourists. In Huertas, you can visit various bars and clubs for a good time. This area is a favorite destination for both tourists and students.

For a cultural experience, consider visiting the Golden Triangle of Art, which houses the Museo del Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza. These museums feature artworks by famous Spanish and European artists. For a breath of fresh air, you can also explore the famous Retiro Park.

Additionally, the current royal family resides in the city, specifically in Zarzuela Palace and the Royal Palace of Madrid. You can tour the palace, accessible by metro or bus. Check the local listings for the updated tour schedule and ticket prices.. 

Barcelona

As the second largest city, Barcelona is located in the wealthier region of Spain. It is a favorite destination not only for its exquisite architecture but also for its parks and beaches.

Barcelona is home to La Sagrada Familia, a large Catholic church constructed as early as the 1800s, which remains partially unfinished. You can also explore other churches like Santa Maria del Mar, Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Co, and Catedral de Barcelona.

Another highlight is La Boqueria, the oldest market in the region. Here, you can sample various Spanish cuisines and pick up other trinkets as souvenirs.

Zaragoza

Often considered an underrated destination, Zaragoza is accessible by train, making it easy to visit. This city offers a wide range of Spanish cuisine, including cheese like Tronchon and truffles, making it a delight for foodies.

Ibiza

Known for its beach parties and nightclubs, Ibiza is a popular destination, with celebrities often seen enjoying their vacations here. You can swim at the beach or go snorkeling. If you prefer a break from the beach scene, you can explore the Old Town and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Keep in mind that staying in Ibiza can be quite expensive, especially during the summer. However, there are cheaper hostels and bed and breakfast options available, and you can also try street food for more budget-friendly meals.

Spanish Cuisine to Try

With Spain and the Philippines sharing a cultural connection, it is not surprising that Filipino local cuisine bears some similarity to Spanish dishes. Evidence of this can be seen in the common practice of sautéing when cooking, as well as the use of tomatoes and garlic.

During your food trip, you can try any of these dishes and even compare their taste to similar dishes back home.

Paella Valenciana

This famous Spanish dish comes in two varieties: with rabbit and chicken, and seafood paella. It is traditionally enjoyed during lunchtime.

Gazpacho

A tomato-based soup served cold, Gazpacho’s main ingredients include tomatoes, peppers, garlic, olive oil, and bread. The refreshing cold soup provides relief in the summer heat. 

Jamon

Cured ham in Spain is hung to dry and preserved throughout the winter. It can only be served after the curing period. There are two kinds of jamon: Jamon Serrano and Jamon Iberico, with the latter being more expensive and made from black pigs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Can I enter one Schengen country and exit another?

Yes, you can enter one Schengen country and exit from another. However, with your Spain visa, you should also check which Schengen countries you are allowed to enter. To find out, check the acronym of the Schengen country and see whether it has a minus sign, as this means you cannot enter that particular country.

  • Can I extend my visa?

Generally, you will not be allowed to extend your Spain tourist visa. In some cases, such as late entry, humanitarian reasons, or other personal reasons, you might be able to apply for an extension.

  • Can I join my family members in Spain with a tourist visa?

Yes, you can join your family with a Spanish tourist visa. However, this visa is only valid for a short stay. If you plan on settling with your family, you should apply for a Spanish family visa instead.

Summary

A Schengen visa allows Filipinos to stay in Spain for 90 days or less. With this type of visa, you can also enter other countries that are part of the Schengen agreement. To start, you need to prepare the required documents. Once ready, you can request an appointment with the embassy. On your appointed date, you will submit the documents and provide your biometrics. The next step is to wait for the result of your application, and you will be notified by the embassy about the outcome.

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