Starting July 12, 2025, citizens of the Russian Federation holding ordinary passports will be required to obtain an Airport Transit Visa (TAP) in order to transit through the international zones of Spanish airports. This measure was announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation and applies to travelers making a stopover in a Spanish airport without entering Spanish territory.
⏺️ Who does this measure affect?
The airport transit visa requirement applies exclusively to Russian nationals holding ordinary passports who intend to transit through Spain en route to a third country. From July 12 onwards, travelers without a valid TAP will not be allowed to board connecting flights in Spain.
⏺️ Who is exempt from the TAP requirement?
Not all Russian citizens will need this visa. The following are exempt:
- Those holding a valid Schengen visa or a national visa from another Schengen State.
- Residents with a valid residence permit issued by an EU or EEA Member State.
- Holders of diplomatic passports.
⏺️ Maximum duration of transit
Under current regulations, transit through Spanish airports must not exceed 24 hours, regardless of final destination.
⏺️ Need help with your visa application?
At ARC Legal Abogados, we provide legal support in the application process for airport transit visas, as well as for short- and long-term stays and residence permits. If you need guidance on your specific case or assistance in preparing your TAP application, feel free to contact us for a personalized consultation.
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🇪🇸 Prefer reading in Spanish? Read the article here: Rusia: Exigencia de visado de tránsito aeroportuario desde el próximo 12 de julio de 2025
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration regulations are subject to frequent interpretative and administrative changes. At ARC Legal, we strive to keep our information up to date and based on official sources, but we always recommend consulting with a qualified professional before starting any legal process or making decisions based on this content. If you need tailored advice, feel free to contact our team.