Many foreigners who intend to visit Spain for tourism, studies or to begin residency procedures must complete a migration procedure called “entry declaration”. However, it is not always clear what this procedure consists of, how important it is and the deadlines for carrying it out correctly.

In this blog we will analyse in depth what the entry declaration in Spain consists of, why it is so important to carry it out, what are the deadlines established for it and some practical recommendations so that foreigners can comply with this migratory requirement without any inconvenience. All this information will be very useful for anyone from another country who has to carry out this procedure when arriving in Spain.

What is the declaration of Entry into Spain ?

The entry declaration is a mandatory immigration procedure for all non-European foreigners entering Spain with a valid visa or permit. It consists of a document in which the personal details and reason for the trip of the foreigner who has recently arrived in the country are recorded.

It must be presented at the nearest police station or border post within a maximum period of one month from entry. There, the police will stamp the declaration, certifying that this immigration procedure has been completed.

It serves for the State to have a record and control of foreigners entering Spanish territory. It allows to verify that the stay is in accordance with what is established in the migration permit of each person.

Why is it important to make the entry declaration into Spain?

Submitting the entry declaration within the established deadline is very important for several reasons:

• It avoids possible financial penalties for non-compliance with this mandatory formality. Penalties can range from approximately 500 to 10,000 euros.
• It allows to maintain the regularity of the migratory situation in Spain. Failure to make the declaration automatically leads to an irregular status, making it difficult to carry out future migratory procedures such as permit renewals or applications for Spanish nationality.
• It makes it possible to access fundamental rights such as work, health, education and other social benefits, by being able to accredit the legality of the stay in Spain through this document.
• Various organisations such as banks, companies or public institutions may request the presentation of the stamped entry declaration for administrative procedures. Not having it could block important formalities.
• It is required by the police authorities at border control when travelling outside Spain, even temporarily. It serves to demonstrate the migratory regularity of the foreigner who intends to leave and subsequently re-enter the country.

In short, making the declaration of entry into Spain is obligatory and is essential in order to be able to reside in the country with all the corresponding legal guarantees and access. Failure to carry out this procedure can lead to serious administrative problems and even expulsion from Spain.

How much time is there to make the entry declaration?

The maximum time limit for submitting the entry declaration at the police station or border post is one month from the date of entry into Spanish territory.

This month is not computed as a fixed period of 30 days, but is calculated from date to date taking as a reference the exact day of entry into the country. For example, if a foreigner entered Spain on 20 September, he/she must complete this procedure before 20 October.

Once this month has elapsed, an administrative infraction is incurred for non-compliance, which can be sanctioned with a financial fine. In some exceptional cases, such as serious illness, accident or natural disaster, the declaration can be submitted up to 3 months after entry. However, proper justification for the delay is necessary to avoid the corresponding penalty.

Under normal circumstances, the period for this procedure expires 30 calendar days after the date of entry into Spain. Complying with this fundamental migratory requirement is key to maintaining the regularity of the situation and avoiding problems.

Some useful recommendations on the entry declaration:

• Entering Spain directly from the country of origin makes it easier to receive the police stamp in the passport upon arrival, avoiding subsequent formalities.
• Having specialised legal advice helps to comply correctly with all the requirements and deadlines.
• Go to the police station as soon as possible to request the declaration and stamping of the passport, within 72 hours in specific cases.
• Indicate a 90-day stay on the document if you plan to apply for residency later, to demonstrate the legality of your situation in Spain.

Present the ticket for the transport used to reach Spain as proof to the police.

In conclusion, properly complying with the entry declaration ensures migratory regularity in Spain. Acting with time and seeking professional guidance are key to complete this procedure without inconveniences. At Apply Golden Visa we help you with all the procedures for the Golden Visa in Spain as well as other types of visas.