Do Spain Citizens Need a Visa for United States in 2026?
Spanish citizens can travel to the United States for tourism, business, or transit for up to 90 days without a traditional visa, provided they obtain an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to boarding their flight.

Museums, venues & activities in United States.



Step-by-Step Application Process
Apply for ESTA
Complete the online ESTA application on the official CBP website at least 72 hours before your departure. The current fee is $21.
Wait for Approval
Approval is usually granted within minutes, though it can take up to 72 hours. Once approved, it is valid for two years.
Travel to the US
Fly into any US port of entry. Ensure your Spanish passport contains a microchip (e-passport).
Immigration Control
Upon arrival, you may use Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks if you have entered the US on an ESTA previously, or proceed to a CBP officer.
Required Documents
- βValid Spanish e-Passport (must be valid for the duration of your stay)
- βApproved ESTA (linked electronically to your passport)
- βProof of onward or return travel
- βCustoms Declaration form (often completed digitally at a kiosk)
Important Tips
- β’The US Dollar (USD) is the currency. Credit and debit cards are widely used for almost everything; carrying large amounts of cash is unnecessary.
- β’Tipping is customary and expected in the US. Standard practice is 15-20% for restaurant servers, bartenders, and taxi drivers.
- β’Healthcare in the US is extremely expensive. Comprehensive travel medical insurance is strongly advised before traveling.
- β’Be prepared for long lines at major immigration checkpoints, especially at hubs like JFK, LAX, or MIA. Connect flights with ample layover time.
- β’Your ESTA allows you to visit Canada, Mexico, and adjacent islands, but this time counts towards your 90-day limit.
Easiest Way to Get It
Apply for your ESTA online a few weeks before your trip, ensure your passport is biometric, and present yourself to the CBP officer upon arrival for a 90-day entry.
What about United States β Spain?
Discover United States
The United States of America, a continental giant and a global cultural powerhouse, is a land of staggering diversity and endless possibilities. From the soaring skyscrapers of Manhattan and the historic monuments of Washington D.C. to the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest, the USA offers every conceivable landscape. Known for its innovation, cinematic influence, and the 'American Dream,' it is a place where small-town charm meets world-class cities. Whether you are exploring the jazz clubs of New Orleans, the tech hubs of Silicon Valley, or the sun-drenched beaches of California and Florida, the United States is a destination that feels both familiar through screen and stage, yet surprisingly vast and varied in person.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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