Invitation Letter: Who Can Issue It and What Responsibilities Does It Entail?

The Spanish Invitation Letter, known as the "Carta de Invitación," is an official document that often generates confusion for both hosts in Spain and their potential guests. Understanding its purpose, who is eligible to issue it, and the legal responsibilities involved is crucial to ensure a smooth and lawful entry into Spain for private or touristic visits.

This document serves a specific purpose: to prove that a foreign national has secured accommodation for their stay. Let's break down the key aspects according to Spanish Immigration Law.

What Exactly is an Invitation Letter?

According to Order PRE/1283/2007, the Invitation Letter is an official document issued by the National Police Station (Comisaría de Policía Nacional). It is requested by a private individual in Spain who commits to hosting a foreign national in their home for a period not exceeding 90 days for touristic or private purposes.

Its primary function is to serve as proof of lodging, which is one of the requirements for entry into the Schengen Area.

Who Can Request an Invitation Letter?

The regulations are clear on this point. The person requesting the letter, known as the host (invitante), must be:

A Spanish citizen.
A foreign national with legal residence in Spain. This includes individuals with temporary or long-term residence permits.

The host initiates the process by applying at the National Police Station corresponding to their place of residence.

What Responsibilities Does the Host Assume?

This is the most critical aspect to understand. By requesting and signing an Invitation Letter, the host is not merely doing a favor; they are making a legally binding commitment to the Spanish authorities.

The primary responsibility is to provide accommodation to the guest in their home for the entire period stated in the letter.

However, the implications are more profound. The host is essentially vouching for the guest's accommodation arrangements. If the guest overstays their visa or does not return to their country of origin, the host could face serious consequences under Spanish Immigration Law (Organic Law 4/2000), including significant fines for promoting illegal immigration.

A Crucial Clarification: The Letter is Not a Guarantee of Entry

It is a common and dangerous misconception that the Invitation Letter guarantees entry into Spain. As stated in Article 8 of the entry regulations, "In no case will the invitation letter replace the foreign person's accreditation of the other requirements for entry."

This means the visitor must still independently prove they meet all other entry conditions at the border, such as:

Sufficient financial means for their stay.
A return or onward ticket.
Travel medical insurance.
A valid passport and, if required, a visa.

The Invitation Letter only covers the accommodation requirement; it does not substitute for any other.

Written by:
Javier Dominguez
Expert Immigration Lawyer
Publication Date: Sept. 16, 2026

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