Documents for Procedures in Spain

Core guide · Updated August 2026

Documents and passport prepared for a procedure in Spain — Illustrative image; does not represent an official document.

Spain is one of the destinations where we most often help clients pull together paperwork, whether that's an FBI background check for the non-lucrative visa or a university diploma for a study program. Each visa category and each procedure calls for its own set of documents, almost always apostilled and, in many cases, translated into Spanish. This page brings together our Spain-specific guides so you can quickly find the one that matches your situation.

FBI background check for the non-lucrative visa

The non-lucrative visa is one of the most requested routes for people who want to live in Spain without working for a Spanish employer. It almost always calls for an FBI background check, apostilled at the federal level and translated into Spanish.

Student visa

Spain's student visa has its own immigration checklist, which can include an apostilled FBI background check depending on the length and type of the program, on top of the academic admission file.

Spain student visa: FBI check, apostille and translation

Digital nomad visa

Spain also runs its own digital nomad visa program, designed for people who work remotely for an employer or clients outside the country. The documents required vary by consular district.

Spain digital nomad visa: FBI record and apostille

Academic documents to study in Spain

Beyond the visa itself, students heading to Spain typically need to present their diplomas and transcripts to the university or the relevant ministry, often with an apostille attached.

Translation and apostille rules for Spain

Spain is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, so most U.S. documents are authenticated with an apostille rather than consular legalization. The receiving Spanish authority frequently also requires an official Spanish translation.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Have more questions about your specific procedure? Write to us and we'll review it with you.

Is Spain part of the Hague Apostille Convention?+

Yes. Spain is a member of the 1961 Hague Convention, so U.S. documents headed to Spain are generally authenticated with an apostille rather than consular legalization.

Do I need an FBI background check for every type of Spain visa?+

Not necessarily. The Spanish consulate with jurisdiction over your address decides which background checks it accepts and for which procedures; it's common for the non-lucrative visa and can also apply to the student visa, depending on the program. Confirm the exact requirement with your consulate.

Do I always need to translate my documents for Spain?+

Often, yes. The receiving Spanish authority, whether a consulate, a university, or a registry, commonly requires an official Spanish translation in addition to the apostille. Confirm the exact requirement before proceeding.

Can I use the same apostille for more than one procedure in Spain?+

No. Each apostille certifies a specific document for a specific use. If you need the document for more than one procedure, such as a visa and a degree recognition process, you generally need separate copies and apostilles.

What is the difference between the non-lucrative visa and digital nomad visa document sets?+

Both let you live in Spain without working for a Spanish employer, but they call for different document sets. The exact requirements, including whether an FBI background check is needed, vary by consular district. Always check the list published by your consulate.

Notice

Informational content. Integramerica is not a law firm and does not provide legal or immigration advice. Requirements and final acceptance depend on the receiving authority in Spain.

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Tell us what document you have and what procedure you need it for in Spain. We'll review your case and let you know the applicable authentication route.

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