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trámite means paperwork — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: November 18, 2025

✈️ Travel Spanish

trámite

noun • /[TRA-mee-te]/

paperwork

Example:

El trámite fue bastante rápido.

The paperwork was quite fast.

🧠 What does trámite mean?

A procedural step or action that must be completed as part of an official process, often involving a series of documents or interactions with an authority. It refers to the administrative or bureaucratic steps required to achieve a specific goal, such as obtaining a visa, registering a vehicle, or completing a legal transaction. In essence, it is the 'paperwork' or the process of getting something officially done.

📚 Extra examples

  • Tengo que hacer varios trámites para renovar mi pasaporte.
    I have to complete several procedures to renew my passport.
  • El trámite de la visa puede ser un poco largo y complicado.
    The visa process can be a bit long and complicated.
  • Necesitas presentar toda la documentación para iniciar el trámite.
    You need to present all the documentation to start the procedure.
  • El abogado se encargará de todos los trámites legales.
    The lawyer will take care of all the legal paperwork.
  • Cada país tiene sus propios trámites para la entrada de turistas.
    Each country has its own procedures for tourist entry.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'trámite' comes from the Latin word 'tramites', meaning 'path' or 'way'. This etymology reflects the idea of a path or series of steps that one must follow to reach a desired outcome.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "trámite"

Synonyms: procedimiento, gestión, formalidad, diligencia, papeleo
Opposites: despacho (in the sense of completing an action quickly)

🔍 See more travel spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'paperwork' in Spanish?
The most common translation for 'paperwork' in the context of official procedures is 'trámite'. While 'papeles' can also refer to documents, 'trámite' specifically denotes the procedural steps involved.
How do you pronounce 'trámite' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is approximately TRAH-mee-teh. The accent mark on the 'a' indicates that it is the stressed syllable.
How do you use 'trámite' in a sentence?
'Trámite' is used to refer to the steps or procedures involved in an official process. For example, 'El trámite de la visa tomó mucho tiempo.' (The visa process took a lot of time.)
What is the English translation of 'trámite'?
The most common English translations for 'trámite' are 'paperwork,' 'procedure,' 'process,' or 'formality,' depending on the context of the official action.
Does 'trámite' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'trámite' is a masculine noun. Its plural form is 'trámites'.
Is 'trámite' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'trámite' is a very common word, especially when discussing official matters, travel, legal issues, or any situation requiring interaction with institutions or governments.
Does 'trámite' have slang or double meanings?
In its primary meaning, 'trámite' is a formal term. While 'trámites' can sometimes be used humorously to refer to any kind of task or errand that feels overly complicated, it does not have significant slang or widely recognized double meanings outside of this informal usage.
Is 'trámite' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The core meaning of 'trámite' as a procedural step in official matters is consistent across Spain and Latin America. While specific bureaucratic processes may differ by region, the word itself functions similarly in both areas.

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