Stay in Spain Over 90 Days: Prórroga de Estancia

Who Needs a Prórroga de Estancia?

Since Brexit, UK citizens are treated as non-EU (third-country) nationals. This means:

You may only stay in Spain for 90 days within any rolling 180-day period.

If you need to extend your stay in Spain or avoid unintentionally overstaying the 90/180 rule, you must apply before the deadline to avoid fines or entry problems in future.

Eligibility Criteria for 2026

General Requirements

• Be a non-EU national exempt from short-stay visa requirements.
• Have no entry bans or legal restrictions in Spain.
• Show sufficient financial means to support the extended stay.
• Hold travel assistance insurance with the same cover as for a short-stay visa (at least €30,000 medical cover), valid for the whole extension.
• Provide proof of intent to return home (e.g., return flight).

Exceptional Circumstances

• Humanitarian reasons
• Medical reasons
• Family-related reasons

Required Documents

Mandatory Documentation

• EX-29 application form (application for authorisation of stay and extensions under RD 1155/2024; not EX-01 or EX-17, which are for residency procedures)
• Valid passport (expiry must extend beyond your requested extension)
• Proof of financial means (recent bank statements)
• Travel assistance insurance with the same cover as a short-stay visa, valid for the whole extension
• Confirmed return ticket
• Documents proving the exceptional circumstance

Application Process

Where to Apply

• Online: Through Spain’s official Mercurio system (the Mercurio online portal)
• In person: At designated immigration offices or police stations

When to Apply

You must submit the request before the initial 90-day period expires.

Cost of Prórroga de Estancia in 2026

The fee (Form 790, code 012) is currently €17.49 for a stay without a visa, increased by a set amount for each day of extension, or €32.17 if you entered with a visa. Payment must be completed prior to submitting supporting documents.

What Happens After Applying?

Immigration authorities will review your case. Processing times vary, but expect 2 to 6 weeks depending on region.

• If approved: Your extension is stamped into your passport.
• If denied: You must leave Spain before your original 90-day limit ends.

Appeals: You may file a recurso de reposición (administrative appeal) within 30 days of a denial.

Alternative Residency Options

If you need to stay in Spain longer than a short-term extension, consider one of these residency options:

• Student Visa: For those studying at an accredited institution.
• Work Permit: Requires a confirmed job offer in Spain.
• Non-Lucrative Visa: For financially self-sufficient applicants.
• Guide to the Spain 90/180 rule — essential reading for avoiding overstays.