Are you planning to host a foreign friend or family member in Spain?
If so, you may need to process a letter of invitation—a key document for visitors who will stay in private homes rather than hotels or tourist accommodations— (that is, those staying in hotels or tourist lodgings will not need a letter of invitation).
At Galilea Abogados, we understand that this process can seem confusing and tedious. However, we are here to help you handle it efficiently, saving you time and avoiding issues. Read on to learn all the details and how we can assist you.

What is the letter of invitation, and who needs it?
The letter of invitation is an official document issued by the National Police of Spain, allowing a Spanish host or legal resident to accommodate a non-EU foreign visitor in their home for up to 90 days. It is a mandatory requirement for those who:
- Come from countries requiring a visa to enter Spain.
- Do not have reservations at hotels or tourist accommodations.
This document ensures that the visitor has a place to stay during their time in Spain, meeting one of the key requirements established by immigration authorities.
How to apply for the letter of invitation
The individual requesting a letter of invitation on behalf of a foreign visitor must submit their application to the Police Station in their place of residence, which is responsible for processing and issuing the document.
The application must include the following details:
- Host’s information: Full name, date of birth, nationality, identity document or passport number, and full address of residence.
- Express declaration: A statement of intent to invite and accommodate the guest at the main residence or a secondary residence, specifying the exact location.
- Housing documentation: Public deed, title of ownership, rental agreement, or another equivalent document.
- Relationship with the guest: The connection or relationship between the host and the visitor.
- Guest’s information: Full name, nationality, address, and passport number.
- Planned stay: The approximate duration of the visit, specifying the first and last day.
This is crucial: Before signing, the host must confirm the accuracy of the information provided and acknowledge that:
- The Criminal Code imposes prison sentences of 4 to 8 years for facilitating illegal immigration (Article 318.bis).
- Organic Law 4/2000 considers promoting illegal immigration for profit a serious offense, with fines of up to €60,000 or expulsion from Spanish territory.
Cost of the letter of invitation: Fees and details
Processing the letter of invitation involves two administrative fees:
- Authorization fee: In 2024, this fee amounts to €75.05.
- Issuance fee: This costs €6.54.
Note: Prices are updated annually through the General State Budget Law.
Payment can be made at any bank, either in cash or via account transfer.
Documents required for the application
The host must provide the following documents when submitting the application at the relevant police station:
- Identification: Original and copy of the DNI, NIE, or passport.
- Proof of residence: Updated registration certificate (empadronamiento).
- Proof of housing ownership or rental: Property deed or rental agreement.
- Guest’s information: Copy of the visitor’s passport.
- Application form: Available at the police station.
- Paid fees: Proof of payment of the required fees.
It is important to note that the requirements and necessary documentation may vary depending on the province you are in. Therefore, it is essential to have a law firm specialized in immigration law that can advise you and help you manage the process correctly.
At Galilea Abogados, we take care of verifying and preparing all the necessary documentation to ensure a smooth and successful process.
Common reasons for rejection and how to avoid them
Although the letter of invitation is a routine process, it can still be denied. Common reasons for rejection include:
- The host is not registered at the address.
- Multiple invitations submitted in a short period of time.
- Failure to meet prior obligations related to previous letters of invitation.
- Inability to prove actual housing availability.
To avoid complications, our service carefully reviews every detail of your application to ensure a successful outcome.
The processing time for the application may vary between 7 and 14 days, depending on the administrative workload and the province where the procedure is carried out.
Why choose Galilea Abogados?
Managing a letter of invitation can be a daunting task, but at Galilea Abogados, we make it simple for you. Our service includes:
- Personalized advice: We address all your questions and analyze your situation.
- Complete management of the process: From gathering documents to submission.
- Process monitoring: Ensuring that everything proceeds smoothly and without setbacks.
We operate 100% online, so you can delegate this task from the comfort of your home.
Contact us and let us handle the process for you!
📞 Phone: +34 641 72 27 60
📧 Email: administracion@galilea-abogados.es
🌐 Website: https://galilea-abogados.es/
Don’t let bureaucracy overwhelm you. At Galilea Abogados, we make the process of obtaining a letter of invitation fast and hassle-free. Contact us now to ensure your loved one’s visit to Spain is stress-free.
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