Spain eases visa rules for Russian citizens in 2026
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In 2026, Spain eases visa rules for Russian citizens. Where to apply, how to book an appointment, and what has changed — read our full overview.
Spain is beginning to ease its visa regime for Russian citizens. After several years of complex and restrictive visa procedures, the latest changes offer hope for a more predictable and accessible Schengen visa application process.
What has changed in 2026
1. Expanded Geography for Visa Applications
Starting January 2026, applicants can once again submit visa documents not only in Moscow and Saint Petersburg. Appointments have reopened at regional BLS Spain visa centers in the following cities:
2. Family Applications Have Become Easier
The Moscow visa center has introduced appointment slots for simultaneous family submissions. This is a convenient solution for families traveling with children, eliminating the need to secure separate appointment dates for each family member.
3. More Available Appointment Slots
The number of available appointment dates in Moscow has noticeably increased. While previously slots disappeared within minutes, it is now often possible to book an appointment even later in the same day.
This may indicate:
Starting January 2026, applicants can once again submit visa documents not only in Moscow and Saint Petersburg. Appointments have reopened at regional BLS Spain visa centers in the following cities:
- Kazan
- Rostov-on-Don
- Nizhny Novgorod
- Novosibirsk
- Samara
2. Family Applications Have Become Easier
The Moscow visa center has introduced appointment slots for simultaneous family submissions. This is a convenient solution for families traveling with children, eliminating the need to secure separate appointment dates for each family member.
3. More Available Appointment Slots
The number of available appointment dates in Moscow has noticeably increased. While previously slots disappeared within minutes, it is now often possible to book an appointment even later in the same day.
This may indicate:
- an increase in internal quotas;
- improved stability of the online booking system;
- a gradual softening of Spain’s visa policy.
Required documents
Despite the procedural easing, document requirements remain unchanged. The main documents include:
- Passport (valid for at least 3 months after the planned return date)
- Completed visa application form
- Color photograph on a light background
- Proof of hotel booking or other accommodation
- Round-trip flight tickets
- Financial documents (bank statement, employment certificate)
- Medical insurance (valid for the entire trip, coverage of at least €30,000, valid throughout the Schengen Area)
Processing times and fees
- Visa processing time: 5–15 business days
- Consular fee: €35 (paid in rubles at the current exchange rate)
- Visa center service fee: approximately 1,200 RUB
Benefits of the changes
- Reduced travel costs to Moscow or Saint Petersburg
- Easier appointment booking for families
- Greater availability of appointment slots and reduced system overload
- Potential return to a more “classic” and predictable visa policy in the future
Conclusion
At the end of 2025 and the beginning of 2026, Spain is demonstrating a positive shift in its visa policy toward Russian citizens. The expansion of application locations, family appointment options, and increased availability of slots make the visa process less stressful.
However, it remains important to remember that proper document preparation — especially medical insurance — is still critical.
Contact Visa Dan for assistance with a Spanish visa — we will help you prepare documents, choose the right insurance, and guide you through the entire process smoothly.
However, it remains important to remember that proper document preparation — especially medical insurance — is still critical.
Contact Visa Dan for assistance with a Spanish visa — we will help you prepare documents, choose the right insurance, and guide you through the entire process smoothly.
Why do customers choose Visa Dan?
Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:
- Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
- Complete transparency and support at every stage.
- A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
- Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.
The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!