Frequently Asked Questions
By U.S. Mission Spain
41 MINUTE READ
Passports
Can I submit my passport application directly to the United States?
No. U.S. citizens outside of the United States must apply for their passports at the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you are currently present.
How do I renew my U.S. passport? Where do I find the form?
To renew your passport, see the Passports Birth pages.
Do I need an appointment before coming to the Embassy?
Yes. You are required to make an appointment online for routine (non-emergency) services, including passport applications and notary services.
Please use ourU.S. Citizens Services Navigatorto contact the ACS Unit at the U.S. Embassy Madrid.
Please use ourU.S. Citizens Services Navigatorto contact the ACS Unit at the U.S. Consulate General Barcelona.
How do I renew my child’s passport?
If your child is under 16 years of age:
- DS-11 Form– do not sign the application.
- Bring the child’s original birth certificate showing all parents’ names.
- All parents who appear on the birth certificate must also appear in person with the child to sign the application before the consular officer.
- Bring all parents’ valid photo identification. (A foreign passport, resident card, or Spanish Documento Nacional de Identidad [DNI] are all acceptable).
If your child is over 16 years of age:
- Bring a complete DS-11 Form – do not sign the application.
- Any passport applicant over the age of 16 may sign his or her own DS-11 Form. We ask that these “first-time adult” applicants also present a secondary form of identification, apart from the U.S. passport. (A foreign passport, resident card, or Spanish Documento Nacional de Identidad [DNI] are all acceptable). Also see the Passports & Reports of Birth
What should I do if my passport/property is lost or stolen?
For lost/stolen passports, see the Emergency Assistance and the Passports pages.
I just got my new passport back and there is a mistake in it. What do I do?
Please use ourU.S. Citizens Services Navigatorto contact the ACS Unit at the U.S. Embassy Madrid.
Please use ourU.S. Citizens Services Navigatorto contact the ACS Unit at the U.S. Consulate General Barcelona.
I need to renew or replace my passport, but I am traveling very soon. What should I do?
The Embassy can provide emergency replacement of lost/stolen passports if the applicant has documented proof of urgent travel (generally within1-2 weeks). Please consult theemergency passportinformation.
I have an urgent issue involving a U.S. citizen
If your inquiry concerns an urgent issue involving an American citizen, such as arrest, death, missing person, accident, or hospitalization, please call (+34) 91 587 2200. For more information.
How long does it take to renew or apply for a new U.S. passport?
Passports are printed in the U.S. and can take 5-6 weeks to process.
Can I renew my passport before it expires?
Yes, you may renew your passport at any time that is convenient for you. Please ensure that you have enough time to receive your new passport before you need to travel.
Does my passport need to be valid for 6 months or a year in order to travel?
Your passport may be used for travel to and from the United States within the validity date displayed on the passport. Certain countries may demand that your passport is valid for longer than 6 months. Please see Travel.state.gov and Consular Information Sheets [under International Travel] to find out each country’s entry requirements.
My son/daughter has both Spanish and U.S. citizenship. At what age must s/he choose which citizenship s/he wants to keep?
U.S. citizenship is for life. No child has to do anything at any age to retain, choose, affirm, or confirm U.S. citizenship. In the 1980’s the Supreme Court ruled that citizenship is a Constitutional right, which cannot be taken away from a citizen who does not want to relinquish it.
I have both a Spanish and U.S. passport – can I travel to the U.S. on my Spanish passport?
No. Section 215 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1185) requires U.S. citizens to use a valid U.S. passport when entering or leaving the United States.
I travel frequently and my passport is always at some embassy to obtain a visa. Can I get a second passport?
Generally, citizens are allowed to carry only one valid passport as a time. In some cases, the issuance of a second passport is possible: frequent travel and the delays due to visa applications, the presence of a stamp from one country that causes problems in another country. We will ask for justification from an employer or proof of compelling reasons for personal travel.
By U.S. Mission Spain
Legalizing/Obtaining Official Documents
How do I legalize my U.S. documents/obtain the Apostille Of The Hague for my documents issued in the United States (e.g., birth, divorce, marriage or death certificate)?
Below please find the series of steps to take in order to legalize your U.S. document
- Obtain the original and official documents from the county clerk’s office where the document was issued. You may also request government issued documents online via a private service called Vitalcheck. Please note this is a privately owned company that is neither part of nor endorsed by the U.S. government.
- Contact the corresponding authentication unit in the state that issued that document and arrange for the documents to be authenticated with the Hague Apostille either in person or by mail. To find contact information by state.
- Once you obtain the duly authenticated documents (with the Hague Apostille) from the Secretary of State, have these documents translated in Spain by a certified translator (“traductor jurado”). An updated list of certified translators may be obtained from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
I have a legal document issued by a court in the United States. What do I need to do make it legally binding in Spain?
You will likely need to consult a private attorney. See the following web page for a list of some English-speaking lawyers in Spain. If you live close to Barcelona, see the following web page for a list of English-speaking lawyers in the Consular District of Barcelona (PDF 6MB).
How do I find a certified translator/lawyer in Spain?
The following links may be helpful to you:
How do I legalize my Spanish document that I need to present in the United States?
Legal or notarized documents and academic records or certificates of birth, death or marriage, issued by Spanish authorities will need the Apostille of the Hague (Apostilla de la Haya) to be used in the United States. The competent authority to execute the “Apostilla de la Haya” on notarized documents is the Colegio Notarial in Madrid at Calle Ruiz de Alarcón 3, Bajo Izquierda, Tel: 912 130 000. Web page.
If the document is a judicial document or one issued by the Registro Civil, it must be taken to the Secretaria de Gobierno del Tribunal Superior de Justicia: (Calle General Castaños 1, planta 0, Tel: 914 934 034).
The Registro General del Ministerio de Justicia executes the Apostille on other official or academic documents in Madrid: Calle San Bernardo, 45, (using the entrance located at Calle Manzana 2), Tel: 913 902 011. See the Spanish Ministry of Justice for more information.
I am a U.S. citizen [or a dual U.S. citizen/Spanish citizen] and have lived in Spain for years. Do I have to file taxes in the U.S.?
Yes, all U.S. citizens must report world-wide income by filing an annual U.S. income tax return, regardless of whether they also pay taxes elsewhere. For more information see Internal Revenue Service web page.
I am a U.S. citizen but don’t have a social security number. How can I apply for one?
Please see our section on Social Security. It is important that every U.S. citizen have a social security number, especially as you are unable to file your U.S. taxes without one.
I am traveling with my child without the child’s other parent or legal guardian/I am traveling with a child of whom I am not the parent/legal guardian. What paperwork should I have to indicate permission or legal authority to have this child in my care?
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless a child is accompanied by both parents or legal guardian(s) when traveling, both parents/legal guardian(s) should sign a statement acknowledging they are aware of the travel.
Sample language: “I acknowledge that my spouse / etc. is traveling out of the country with my son / daughter. He / She / has / They / have my permission to do so.”
Specific example of a grandparent traveling with a grandchild without the child’s parents: “I acknowledge that my mother, Jane Doe, is traveling out of the county with my child (her grandchild), Julie Doe. She has my permission to do so.”
While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the child’s travel circ*mstances can be fully assessed. If there is no second parent or guardian with legal claims to the child (deceased, sole custody, etc.), any other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, death certificate, etc., would be useful to have with you while traveling with the child.
Please refer to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for more information.
Airlines may have their own requirements regarding minors travelling without one of their parents/legal guardians, so you should contact the airline as well. For questions regarding U.S. citizen minors traveling to Spain without both parents/legal guardians, please contact the Spanish Embassy in the United States for additional information.
U.S. citizen minors living in Spain: Spanish legislation effective September 1, 2019, mandates that all Spanish minors travelling internationally without their parents or legal guardians must have written, notarized permission from a parent or guardian to do so. The legislation requires that foreign minors resident in Spain also have written authorization to travel, if the country of their nationality requires them to do so. Written permission for U.S. citizen minors to travel without a parent/legal guardian is recommended but not obligatory under U.S. law. Therefore, according to Spanish authorities, this requirement does not apply to U.S. citizen minors.
However, some U.S. citizen children have been prevented from traveling by airlines and Spanish authorities under this law. Parents/legal guardians may want to provide written permission for their U.S. citizen minor children to travel abroad unaccompanied or with a third party. For more information about the Spanish law and a copy of the travel authorization form, please visit this website.
By U.S. Mission Spain
Driving in the U.S. and Spain
Can I drive with my U.S. driver’s license in Spain?
U.S. citizens who plan to drive in Spain must obtain an international driving permit (IDP) prior to their arrival. An international driving permit translates your state-issued driver’s license into ten languages so that officials in foreign countries can interpret it. The IDP is not valid by itself and must be carried in addition to your state-issued driver’s license.
Can I validate my U.S. Drivers’ license in Spain?
No. You would need to apply for a Spanish driver’s license. There is no agreement between the United States and Spain for the validation of a U.S. driver’s licenses.
How can I obtain a Spanish driver’s license?
To obtain a Spanish driver’s license, you need to take a class at a local driving school and pass the required exams. The tests can be taken in English.
My U.S. driver’s license has expired, is lost, or was stolen.
U.S. driver licenses can only be renewed in the United States by the state of issuance. The U.S. Embassy plays no role in the issuance or replacement of driver’s licenses. Please contact the Motor Vehicle Department in the state that issued your driver’s license for information.
By U.S. Mission Spain
Taking Foods/Drinks/Medications/Pets to the U.S.
Can I bring my medicine into the United States?
If you take medicine containing habit-forming drugs or narcotics (e.g., cough medicine, diuretics, heat drugs, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, depressants, stimulants, etc.) you should ensure that it is properly identified and in its original container. Carry only the quantity that you need during your duration of stay and bring either a prescription or written statement from your physician saying that the medicine is being used under a doctor’s direction and is necessary for your physical well-being while traveling. Declare such drugs or medications to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon admission for entry. An English translation (which does not need to be official) is recommended. Narcotics and dangerous drugs are prohibited, and there are severe civil and or criminal penalties if imported. Cannabis in any form, even if prescribed as a medication, is prohibited. Please see the CBP website for more information.
Do I need medical insurance for my trip to Spain?
American citizens living or traveling abroad should be sure they have adequate medical insurance that will cover expenses incurred abroad. Medicare and Medicaid are only valid in the United States. Some private American medical insurance companies will pay for expenses abroad, but most require that the patient pay the bill first and then file for reimbursem*nt. Hospitals and health care providers will expect payment if you are not covered by the Spanish health care system. The United States Embassy does not cover medical expenses of private American citizens in Spain. If you plan to spend any time in Spain, you should consider purchasing a policy that specifically covers expenses incurred overseas. For more information, please see the State Department’s health tips.
What foods/beverages can I bring into the United States?
Do not bring any food into the United States without first checking to see if it is permitted. Please see the “Know Before You Go” page before traveling.
What can I take on the plane?
Please contact the airline for information on what it allows on board.
How much currency/money instruments can I bring into the U.S.?
Please see the “Know Before You Go” page.
How many bottles of wine/alcoholic beverages can I bring into the United States?
Nonresidents who are at least 21 years old may bring, free of duty and internal revenue tax, up to one liter of alcoholic beverage – beer, wine, liquor – for personal use. Quantities above the one-liter limitation are subject to duty and internal revenue tax. Please see the “Know Before You Go” page for more information.
Can I bring meats like jamón serrano or other cold cuts into the United States?
No. Meats, livestock, poultry, and other products are all prohibited from entering the United States. Please see the “Know Before You Go” page for more information.
Thinking of sending medication to Spain by mail?
Spanish regulations do not permit the international shipment of medication, so please do not ship medication from the United States to Spain. Medications sent by mail will be stopped at customs and either returned (at your expense) or destroyed.
U.S. citizens who plan a lengthy trip to Spain should bring enough medication for their stay or obtain a prescription for that medication from a Spanish physician.
For inquiries regarding what type of medications can be brought to Spain, please contact the Spanish Embassy in the United States. The Spanish Embassy should give you guidance on the necessary paperwork and if your medication is permitted into Spain. See this link.
Can I bring my dog into the United States?
Temporary Suspension on the Importation of Dogs
On June 14, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a Notice of Temporary Suspension of Dogs Entering the United States from High-Risk Rabies Countries suspending the importation of dogs from countries classified by the CDC as high risk for dog rabies AND countries that are NOT at high risk if the dogs have been in high-risk countries during the previous 6 months. Eligible individuals can apply for a CDC Dog Import Permit. For more information, please contact CDC or U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
By U.S. Mission Spain
Criminal Records / Fingerprints
I need my criminal records from Spain. How do I get them?
If you are no longer living in Spain and need a Spanish criminal record (Antecedentes Penales), please go to the web page of the Ministerio de Justicia and follow their instructions. The process is done directly through them. Allow approximately 1 month to receive your criminal records back.
I need to obtain criminal records from the United States. How do I get them?
If you are in the United States and need an Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) criminal background check, please go to the FBI background check website. If you are in Spain, please consult our U.S. Criminal Records page.
Can I file a Spanish police report in English?
Yes, by dialing 902 102 112. You will hear a recording with language options. Press 2 for English. Once you file your police report, you will be given a reference number. The police officer taking the report will tell you of the police station where you can pick up the report. You will need to provide the reference number. Note: Do not forget to sign the police report. If you are in Madrid, you may also file a report by going to directly to Calle Leganitos # 19 (near Plaza de España).
By U.S. Mission Spain
Miscellaneous
Should I register with the Embassy? How do I do it?
The current procedure is to enroll with the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which is done entirely online through the STEP website. Enrollment is voluntary, free of charge, and allows the Department of State to assist you more easily in case of an emergency. We encourage you to enroll whether you are visiting Spain or residing here.
I am a U.S. citizen and I would like to get married in Spain
See our information on the marriage process in Spain at our marriage page.
How can I extend my stay/work/study here in Spain?
We are unable to answer questions regarding Spanish visas. For more information, please see the State Department’s Schengen FAQ page or contact the Spanish Embassy or Consulate nearest your residence in the United States. If you are already in Spain, please visit the Spanish Ministry of the Interior website or call 060.
How do I vote in the next election?
Consult the website for the Federal Voter Assistance Program.
I need an English-speaking doctor in the Madrid area
See our Medical Information page for doctors in the Madrid area. If you require a doctor outside the Madrid area, you may also contact one of the other U.S. Consular Offices in Spain.
Do I need to register for Selective Service?
Almost all male U.S. citizens 18 to 25 years old, regardless of place of residence, must register on the Selective Service webpage. Dual nationals (American citizens who also hold a second nationality) must also register, regardless of place of residence.
Can the Embassy help me find my friend/relative in the United States?
The Embassy will attempt to assist in locating U.S. citizens in cases of parental child abduction, missing persons, or other emergencies. The U.S. Embassy does not, however, monitor the whereabouts of U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, or foreign nationals who travel or reside in the United States. Furthermore, American privacy laws dictate that we may not reveal information regarding a U.S citizen’s location, welfare, intentions, or problems to anyone, including family members and Congressional representatives, without the express consent of that individual.
Where can a U.S. traveler make a tourism-related complaint about travel in Spain?
For tourism-related complaints, contact the Spanish embassy in Washington, D.C. or the nearest Spanish consulate in the United States.
Will the U.S. Government pay for my legal expenses in Spain?
No. The U.S. Government does not pay for legal expenses of U.S. citizens abroad. If you have are in need of legal assistance you may want to refer to our list of English-speaking attorneys in Spain. The U.S. Embassy assumes no responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of persons or firms whose names appear on this list.
I am a U.S. citizen and want to take on Spanish citizenship – will I lose my U.S. citizenship?
Please see our section on Dual Nationality. It is possible that the Spanish Immigration authorities may require you to give up your U.S. citizenship as a condition of taking on Spanish Citizenship.
By U.S. Mission Spain
COVID-19 Information
Update on Change to U.S. Travel Policy Requiring COVID-19 Vaccination for Nonimmigrant Travel
Last Updated: May 4, 2023
The Administration will end the COVID-19 vaccine requirements for international air travelers at the end of the day on May 11, the same day that the COVID-19 public health emergency ends. This means starting May 12, noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers will no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States. CDC’s Amended OrderImplementing Presidential Proclamation on Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemicwill no longer be in effect when thePresidential ProclamationAdvancing the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemicis revoked.
Notice
If you have concerns about our waiting area due to special needs for yourself or your childto inquire about an appointment at a quiet/private time.
Please use ourU.S. Citizens Services Navigatorto contact the ACS Unit at the U.S. Embassy Madrid.
Please use ourU.S. Citizens Services Navigatorto contact the ACS Unit at the U.S. Consulate General Barcelona.
Country-Specific Information
Entry and Exit Requirements
- Are there COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens? No
Quarantine Information
- Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine?No
COVID-19 Testing
- Are PCR and/or antigen tests available for U.S. citizens in Spain?Yes
- If so, are test results reliably available within one calendar day?Yes
- U.S. citizens can obtain a COVID-19 test in Spain by paying an average of €30 for an antigen test, or €120 for a PCR test from a private medical facility. Tests are widely available at clinics and hospitals throughout Spain.
COVID-19 Vaccine Information
- Are vaccines available in Spain for U.S. citizens to receive?Yes (short-term visitors may not be entitled).
- Which vaccines are available in Spain? Spain is administering Pfizer/BioNtech, Moderna, Oxford/AstraZeneca, and Janssen vaccines.
- According to the government of Spain, vaccines are being facilitated through the public healthcare system, in four phases. Regularly updated information is available here:https://www.vacunacovid.gob.es/.
- Visit theFDA’s websiteto learn more about FDA-approved vaccines in the United States.
- The United States government does not plan to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to private U.S. citizens overseas. Please follow host country developments and guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination.
- Visit the FDA’s website tolearn more about FDA-approved vaccinesin the United States.
Movement Restrictions
- Is a curfew in place? No
- Are there restrictions on intercity or interstate travel? No
Mask Requirement
- A mask covering your mouth and nose is recommended in medical facilities, or if you are experiencing symptoms of being sick.
Local Resources
- SpanishMinistry of Health COVID-19 site.
