Starting in 2026, Spain will allow visa-free travel for ordinary passport holders from eight African nations. This change will enable eligible visitors to stay in Spain for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, a move anticipated to enhance tourism, business, and cultural interactions between Europe and Africa.
The countries benefiting from this new policy include Botswana, Cabo Verde, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mauritius, Namibia, Rwanda, and Seychelles. The visa exemption will facilitate short-term visits for purposes such as tourism, business, or visiting family and friends. However, travelers must still adhere to standard entry requirements, which include possessing a valid passport and, if necessary, showing proof of accommodation, sufficient financial means, and a return or onward travel ticket.
While this initiative opens doors for brief visits, it does not extend to employment, long-term studies, or permanent relocation in Spain. Individuals planning to work or study will still need to secure the appropriate visa or residence permit. This distinction ensures that the visa-free policy remains focused on short-term visits rather than long-term stays.
Notably, the updated travel policy does not include South Africa. As a result, South African passport holders will continue to require a Schengen visa for short visits to Spain and other countries within the Schengen Area. This exclusion highlights the selective nature of the visa exemption and its focus on specific African countries.
The introduction of visa-free travel for these eight African nations underscores Spain’s commitment to fostering greater connectivity with Africa. By easing travel restrictions, Spain aims to strengthen economic ties, encourage cultural exchange, and support the growing collaboration between the two continents.