Starting in 2026, Spain will allow visa-free travel for citizens from eight African nations, granting stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for ordinary passport holders. This initiative aims to enhance tourism, facilitate business travel, and encourage cultural exchanges between Europe and Africa.
The countries benefiting from this visa exemption include Botswana, Cabo Verde, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mauritius, Namibia, Rwanda, and Seychelles. This development is expected to foster closer ties through short-term visits for purposes such as tourism, business activities, or visiting family and friends.
While the visa requirement will be lifted, travelers must still fulfill standard entry conditions. These include possessing a valid passport and, if necessary, providing proof of accommodation, financial resources, and return or onward travel tickets. The exemption is tailored for brief visits, thus not extending to employment, long-term studies, or permanent relocation. Those seeking to work or study in Spain will need to secure the appropriate visas or residence permits.
Notably absent from this updated list is South Africa, whose citizens will continue to require a Schengen visa for short visits to Spain and other Schengen Area countries. The change highlights Spain’s efforts to streamline travel from select African nations while maintaining existing protocols for others.