In 2026, whether you need an airport transit visa (Type A) for Spain depends entirely on your nationality and your travel route. Citizens of many non-EU countries—including India, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Cuba—generally require an airport transit visa if they are passing through the international zone of a Spanish airport without entering the country. However, if you hold a valid Schengen visa, or a residence permit from an EU/EEA country, Canada, Japan, or the USA, you are typically exempt from this requirement. It is crucial to note that a transit visa only allows you to stay within the international transit area. If your connection in 2026 requires you to change terminals by passing through border control, or if you have a long layover and wish to stay in a hotel outside the airport, you must instead apply for a standard "Type C" Schengen visa. Furthermore, starting in 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries (like the UK or USA) must ensure they have their ETIAS authorization ready, even for transit.