The documents you need to apostille depend on which Spanish visa you're applying for. Here are the most common routes Canadians take, and what each one typically requires.

Many Canadians choose the Non-Lucrative Visa to live in Spain long-term without working, whether for retirement, lifestyle relocation, or extended stays. This visa focuses on proving financial stability and personal background rather than employment.

Common Canada Apostille Requirements:

• RCMP Police Clearance Certificate
• Marriage Certificate (if applying with spouse)
• Birth Certificates (for dependents or family applications)
• Medical certificate (signed by a licensed doctor in original wet ink, notarized + apostilled)

Note that: The Non-Lucrative Visa does not permit employment, including remote work for Canadian employers. Canadians who work remotely must apply for the Digital Nomad Visa instead. This distinction matters because the two visas require different apostilled documents.

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa has become increasingly popular among Canadians working remotely for Canadian or international employers. This visa was introduced in 2023 under Law 28/2022. It requires proof that at least 80% of your income comes from clients or employers outside Spain, and allows professionals, freelancers, and online business owners to live in Spain while working abroad.

Common Canada Apostille Requirements:

• RCMP Police Clearance Certificate
• Degree, diploma, or professional certifications
• Employment verification or freelance documentation (sometimes notarized)
• Birth or marriage certificates (for family members)

Important: The 80% income rule is enforced at the consulate stage. Employment verification letters and sometimes freelance contracts may require notarization before they can be apostilled if the consulate requests authentication.

Canadians planning to study at Spanish universities, colleges, or language schools may need apostilled documents to confirm academic history and identity, particularly for long-term programs.

Common Canada Apostille Requirements:

• Academic transcripts
• Degree or diploma
• Birth certificate
• RCMP Police Clearance (for longer study programs)

If you’re relocating to Spain for a job opportunity, Spanish authorities typically request background checks and professional credentials to verify employment eligibility.

Common Canada Apostille Requirements:

• RCMP Police Clearance Certificate
• Degree or diploma
• Professional certifications
• Employment letters (sometimes notarized)

Canadians planning to start a business, freelance, or operate independently in Spain may need apostilled business and personal documents as part of their application.

Common Canada Apostille Requirements:

• Business registration documents
• Degree or professional certifications
• RCMP Police Clearance Certificate
• Power of Attorney (if working with Spanish legal representatives)

Canadians joining a spouse, partner, or family member in Spain usually need apostilled civil documents to confirm family relationships and legal status.

Common Canada Apostille Requirements:

• Marriage certificate
• Birth certificate
• Divorce certificate (if applicable)
• Single status affidavit (for marriage in Spain)