Which Documents Need to Be Apostilled or Legalized for Spanish Immigration?
A Practical Guide to Apostille and Legalization of documents for Spanish Visas
When applying for a Spanish residence permit – including the Digital Nomad Visa, Non-Lucrative Visa, or other immigration routes – most applicants must provide supporting documents issued abroad.
These documents often require an apostille or legalization to be valid in Spain.
Keep in mind that if the documents are not in Spanish, you will also need an official sworn translation (traducción jurada) into Spanish.
Understanding which documents require apostille, legalization, or translation will save you time and stress in the application process.
Apostille vs. Legalization: What's the Difference?
Apostille: A simplified form of international authentication under the 1961 Hague Convention. If your country is a member, public documents can be apostilled by the relevant authority (e.g., Secretary of State in the U.S., FCDO in the U.K., Department of Foreign Affairs in Australia). Spain will then recognize them directly.
Legalization: If your country is not part of the Hague Convention, your documents must go through a more complex chain of authentication (issuing authority → foreign affairs ministry → Spanish consulate in the country of issuance).
💡 Tip: Check whether your country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention before starting.
Key Documents Explained
1. Criminal Record Certificate
Why required? Confirms you have no serious criminal background in your country of residence during the past five years.
2. Birth Certificate
Why required? Often needed for family reunification or when applying with dependents.
3. Marriage Certificate / Partnership Certificate
Why required? To prove the relationship between spouses or registered partners.
4. Academic Degrees and Professional Certificates
Why required? Needed for Highly Skilled Professional permits or when credentials must be officially recognized in Spain.
Final Thoughts
For anyone applying for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa or other residence permits, the authentication and translation of documents are just as important as the documents themselves. Starting early with apostille or legalization can prevent delays, since some countries take weeks to issue them.
👉 We can also connect you with our trusted network of partners for translations, apostilles, and other key services.
