Applying for a Spanish visa, whether for tourism, study, work, or family purposes, can feel both exciting and nerve-wracking. Once you’ve submitted your application, the waiting game begins, and naturally, you’ll want to know the status of your visa. Fortunately, Spain offers ways to check your visa status online, helping you stay updated without unnecessary visits or calls to the consulate.

In this article, we’ll break down the process in detail, so you know exactly how to track your Spain visa application.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Spain Visa Status Online

1. Through BLS International (Most Common in India & Other Countries)

In many countries, including India, Spain outsources its visa application services to BLS International. If you applied through them, you can track your status on their website.

Steps:

1. Visit the official BLS International website for Spain visa services. Indian passport holders can use this link - https://india.blsspainvisa.com/

2. Go to the “Track Application” section.

3. Enter your Reference Number (given on the receipt when you submitted your application) and your Date of Birth.

4. Submit the details, and the system will show you the current status of your visa.

Possible Status Updates You May See:

• Application Received – Your documents have been submitted to the consulate.

• Under Process – Your application is being reviewed.

• Processed – A decision has been made, and the passport is ready for collection/delivery.

• Dispatched – Your passport is on its way back to you.

2. Through VFS Global

In some regions, Spanish visas are handled by VFS Global. If you applied via VFS, the process is almost the same.

Steps:

1. Go to the VFS Global Spain Tracking Page.

2. Enter your Reference Number and Last Name.

3. You’ll be able to see the latest update on your application.

3. Directly via the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs

For certain long-stay visas or residence permits, you may be able to check the status directly through the official government portal of Spain.

Steps:

1. Visit the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs Visa Status Portal.

2. Enter the required details such as your application number, passport number, and nationality.

3. The portal will display the current stage of your application.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Processing Times Vary: A short-stay Schengen visa usually takes 15–30 working days, while long-stay visas can take several weeks or months.

• Check Spam/Email Alerts: Sometimes you’ll receive email or SMS updates directly from BLS, VFS, or the consulate.

• Reference Number is Crucial: Always keep your application receipt safe, as the tracking number is mandatory for online checks.

• Updates May Take Time: Don’t panic if the status doesn’t change daily; updates usually appear when your application moves from one stage to another.

• Decision Confidentiality: The online system won’t reveal whether your visa is approved or refused. It only shows status updates. The final decision is known when you collect your passport.

When to Contact the Consulate

If your application status hasn’t changed for an unusually long time, or if the tracking system doesn’t recognise your details, you may contact:

• The BLS/VFS helpline in your country.

• The Spanish Consulate/Embassy where you applied.

Always keep your reference number and passport details handy when calling or emailing.

How Will I Receive My Spain Visa Once It’s Approved?

When your Spanish visa is approved, it will always be given as a sticker inside your passport. The sticker shows the dates when your visa is valid, how many days you can stay, and whether it’s single or multiple entry. How you get your passport back depends on the type of visa and how you applied.

For Schengen Visa (Short Stay up to 90 Days)

If you applied through BLS International, VFS Global, or directly at a Spanish consulate/embassy, your passport will get the visa sticker once approved.

• You can either collect your passport in person from the visa centre, or

• Choose to have it sent back to you by courier, if that service is available.

For Long-Stay National Visa (More Than 90 Days)

If you applied for a student, work, or family reunification visa, your passport will also receive a visa sticker.

But this visa is only the first step. After arriving in Spain, you must:

1. Visit the local immigration office within 30 days of arrival.

2. Apply for your residence permit card, called the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE).
   This card is what proves your legal stay in Spain.

For Applications Submitted Through Atlys

If you applied using Atlys, your visa will still be a sticker in your passport. Atlys will let you know once your passport is ready, and their team will deliver it to your home.

My Spain Visa Status Shows Rejected. What Should I Do?

If your Spain visa has been rejected, don’t panic. Visa refusals happen often, and many people get approved when they apply again after fixing the issues. The key is to understand why your visa was denied and take the right steps before reapplying.

Common Reasons Why Spain Visas Get Rejected

A Spanish visa, whether short-stay (Schengen) or long-stay (work, study, family), can be refused for many reasons, such as:

• Incomplete or wrongly filled application form

• Missing documents (passport copy, travel insurance, hotel booking, return flight ticket, bank statements, etc.)

• Passport problems (not valid for at least 3 months beyond your trip, or no blank pages)

• Not enough financial proof to show you can afford your stay

• Unclear travel purpose (no supporting documents like an invitation letter, work contract, or itinerary)

• Mistakes or mismatched details in the form (names, dates, or plans don’t match)

• Weak ties to your home country (consulate fears you may not return)

• Past immigration issues in Schengen countries

• No valid travel insurance for the required coverage

What to Do After a Rejection?

1. Read the rejection notice carefully: The embassy/consulate will give you a written note with the exact reason for refusal. This is your guide to what went wrong.

2. Fix the problems: Collect missing documents, provide stronger financial proof, correct mistakes, or add evidence (like hotel bookings, invitation letters, or insurance).

3. Reapply: Once you’ve resolved the issues, you can submit a fresh application. Make sure everything is accurate and complete this time.

4. File an appeal (optional): If you feel your application was unfairly rejected, you can file an appeal within 1 month of the refusal. The appeal is reviewed by higher Spanish authorities.

5. Get professional help: If you’re unsure, you can consult a visa expert, lawyer, or agency specialising in Schengen visas.

Want a Hassle-Free Application Experience?

Applying for a Spanish Schengen visa can feel overwhelming because of the many documents and requirements. The best way to avoid delays or rejection is to apply carefully, double-check every detail, and make sure your documents meet Schengen standards. You can also choose to apply through Atlys for a smooth and hassle-free process.

Once your visa is approved, Spain welcomes you with its stunning architecture, sun-soaked beaches, lively festivals, and rich cultural heritage.