How to do an invitation letter
Who can request it?
Anyone who is:
A Spanish citizen or a legal resident in Spain (with a NIE or residence permit), can request the “carta de invitación” for a friend or family member visiting from outside the EU.
📋 Steps to get an invitation letter in Barcelona:
1. Make an appointment (cita previa)
You must book an appointment online via the official website:
https://sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es/icpplustie
Choose:
Provincia: Barcelona
Trámite: “Carta de invitación”
2. Go to the police station
Once you have your appointment, go to the Comisaría de Policía Nacional (usually Passeig de Sant Joan or Via Laietana in Barcelona).
3. Bring required documents:
Your passport or NIE
Proof of residence (padrón)
Title or rental contract of your home
Personal details of the person you’re inviting (passport copy, address, etc.)
Reason for the visit
Pay a fee (around €75–80)
4. Wait for approval
Once submitted, the police will process the letter. You’ll be told when to come back to pick it up (can take a few days to weeks).
📨 Then what?
Once you receive the official invitation letter, you send it (original copy) to your guest abroad so they can include it in their Schengen visa application.
💡 Useful tips:
This letter does not guarantee a visa, but it’s often required for short-term tourist visas.
It shows that the visitor will stay at your residence and won’t be a burden to the state.
