A clear and updated guide to understand how the Spanish Invitation Letter works, how much it costs, what documents you need, and which mistakes can lead to delays or denials.

Introduction

The Invitation Letter is one of the most common procedures requested by Spanish citizens and legal residents who want to host a relative or friend visiting from abroad. Although it is not a complex process, there is still a lot of confusion about who must apply, where it is processed, its real cost, the required documents, and the situations in which the Police may deny it.

In this updated 2025 guide, we explain step-by-step how the Invitation Letter works, how to apply for it, what fees must be paid, and how to avoid the most common mistakes that cause delays or problems at the border.

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How to Apply for an Invitation Letter in Spain

The Invitation Letter is issued exclusively by the Spanish National Police and allows a foreign national to prove that they will stay in a private residence during a short stay in Spain (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).

When is the Invitation Letter required?

Only when the visitor will stay in a private home.
If the visitor stays in a hotel, hostel, official tourist accommodation or similar, the Invitation Letter is not required.

Who must apply?

Always the host living in Spain, meaning:

• The owner of the property, or

• The legal tenant listed on the rental contract.

The foreign visitor cannot apply for this document.

Where is it processed?

Only at the National Police Station corresponding to the host’s residence.
Invitation Letters have not been processed by notaries for many years.

General procedure

1. The host attends the police station (with or without an appointment, depending on the city).

2. Submits documentation proving their residency.

3. Pays the first administrative fee.

4. Waits for the police to approve the file.

5. Pays the second fee when collecting the document.

6. Sends the original Letter to the foreign visitor to use at the consulate or at the border.

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Documents Required for the Invitation Letter

The Police may vary the exact requirements depending on the province, but generally they request:

Documents from the host

• Valid DNI or TIE

• Certificate of registration (empadronamiento)

• Property deed or rental contract

• Proof of residence (utility bill often requested)

• Written declaration identifying the invitee and length of stay

Documents from the invited person

• Full copy of the passport

• Full name, date of birth, address

• Approximate dates of arrival and departure

Unlike in the past, the Police no longer require:

• Proof of economic means from the host

• Proof of family relationship

• Explanation of the purpose of the trip

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How Much Does the Invitation Letter Cost?

The procedure includes two mandatory fees.

Fee 1 – Opening the application

This fee is paid when submitting the application.
In 2025, the standard cost remains around:

€73–€75

Fee 2 – Issuance of the Letter

Paid at the time of collecting the final document from the police station.

Generally between:

€6–€8

Total approximate cost

Between €80 and €85 per Invitation Letter.

Some police stations may require one Letter per person, while others allow a single Letter for a family group.

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When Can the Invitation Letter Be Denied?

Although relatively simple, the Invitation Letter can be denied for several reasons:

• The host cannot prove they legally reside in the property

• The rental contract forbids hosting guests

• The host is not registered (empadronado) at the address

• Inconsistencies in the information provided about the visitor

• Lack of documentation or doubts about the real accommodation

Consequences of denial

A denial does not harm the host, but it prevents the visitor from:

• Obtaining a visa

• Entering Spain if traveling visa-free

Therefore, preparing the documentation correctly is essential.

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What the Invitation Letter Actually Does (and Doesn’t) Guarantee

The Invitation Letter does not guarantee:

• That a visa will be granted

• That border police will allow entry

It only proves where the visitor will be staying.

The visitor must still meet all Schengen entry requirements, including:

• Sufficient financial means

• Travel insurance

• Return ticket

• No alerts in Schengen systems

• Not exceeding the 90/180-day rule

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Conclusion

The Invitation Letter is a key document for foreign visitors staying at a private residence in Spain. Preparing it correctly prevents unnecessary delays, denials, or problems at border control.

If you need help preparing the Invitation Letter or planning the entry of a family member or visitor, Visal Immigration Lawyers can assist you throughout the entire process.