Starting in 2026, Spain will implement a visa-free travel policy for citizens holding ordinary passports from eight African nations. This new regulation will permit eligible individuals to visit Spain for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, fostering increased tourism, business engagements, and cultural interactions between Europe and Africa.
The countries benefiting from this policy include Botswana, Cabo Verde, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mauritius, Namibia, Rwanda, and Seychelles. The initiative aims to facilitate short-term visits for purposes such as tourism, business activities, and visiting family or friends. Despite the relaxed visa requirements, travelers are expected to adhere to standard entry conditions, such as possessing a valid passport and, if necessary, showing proof of accommodation, sufficient financial resources, and return or onward travel plans.
Importantly, this visa exemption does not extend to employment, long-term study, or permanent relocation. Individuals planning to work or study in Spain must still secure the appropriate visa or residence permit to meet legal requirements.
Notably absent from this new arrangement is South Africa, meaning South African passport holders must continue to obtain a Schengen visa for short visits to Spain and most other countries within the Schengen Area.