Starting in 2026, Spain is set to introduce visa-free travel for citizens holding ordinary passports from eight African nations, allowing them to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day timeframe. This initiative aims to enhance tourism, business travel, and cultural interactions between European and African regions.
The countries benefiting from this new visa exemption are Botswana, Cabo Verde, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mauritius, Namibia, Rwanda, and Seychelles. Eligible visitors will be able to travel to Spain for short-term purposes such as tourism, business, or visiting family and friends without the need for a visa.
Despite the lifting of visa requirements, travelers must still comply with standard entry protocols. This includes carrying a valid passport and, if necessary, demonstrating proof of accommodation, adequate financial resources, and return or onward travel arrangements. The visa waiver does not cover those seeking employment, long-term education, or permanent residency; such individuals will still need to pursue the appropriate visas or residence permits.
Notably absent from the list is South Africa, whose citizens will continue to require a Schengen visa for short stays in Spain and other countries within the Schengen Area. This means that South African passport holders will not benefit from the streamlined travel process offered to the other mentioned African nations.