In a major update for travelers, Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that starting July 12, 2025, Russian citizens holding ordinary passports will require an airport transit visa to pass through international transit zones of Spanish airports. This new regulation will impact those who are merely transiting through Spain en route to their final destinations.

New Transit Rules for Russian Travelers via Spain

As per the official statement, only Russian nationals with a valid airport transit visa will be allowed to make connecting flights through any airport in Spain. Without this visa, entry into the international transit area will be denied.

This policy aligns with Spain’s ongoing efforts to regulate entry points more strictly for travelers from third countries. Spain joins Czechia and other EU countries that have imposed transit or visa restrictions on Russian citizens in recent times.

Who Is Exempt from the Airport Transit Visa?

Not all Russian nationals will need to apply for the new airport transit visa for Spain. The following categories are exempt:

• Russian citizens holding a valid Schengen visa or national visa.

• Individuals with a residence permit issued by an EU or EEA member state.

• Holders of diplomatic passports.

If you fall outside these exemption categories and are planning to transit through Spanish territory, you must apply for the airport transit visa well in advance of your travel date.

Transit Time Limit – 24 Hours Maximum

Russians transiting through Spanish airports under this visa category must ensure that their total layover or transit time does not exceed 24 hours. Staying beyond the permitted duration may result in legal complications or denial of further travel.

How to Apply for the Spain Airport Transit Visa

To obtain the Spain Airport Transit Visa for Russian citizens, applicants must:

1. Fill out the official visa application form.

2. Submit:

   • A recent passport-size photograph.

   • Passport pages containing biometric data.

   • A document proving onward travel from Spain.

   • Proof of residence in Russia or a third country.

3. Pay the applicable Spanish consular visa fee.

The processing time is typically 15 calendar days, but may extend to 45 days if additional documentation is needed.

Apply Now or Get Expert Help via EU Prime Serwis Contact Form

Why This Matters

This decision will notably affect Russians who previously used Madrid-Barajas, Barcelona-El Prat, and other Spanish airports as transit hubs to Latin America, North Africa, or other Schengen-free destinations. With Schengen visa restrictions already in place in several EU countries, Spain’s airport visa mandate adds another layer of travel regulation for Russian citizens.

If you're unsure about your eligibility, visa requirements, or need help applying, EU Prime Serwis offers full visa assistance and consultation services for both Schengen and transit visas.

Key Takeaways

• Effective Date: July 12, 2025

• Applies to: Russian ordinary passport holders

• Does Not Apply To: Schengen visa holders, EU/EEA residents, diplomats

• Transit Stay Limit: 24 hours

• Apply early to avoid travel disruption

Need Assistance? Contact EU Prime Serwis Now – Our Visa Experts Are Ready to Help.