Study in Spain: Study Visas & Permits

How do you get your student visa if you apply to study in Spain and get a letter of acceptance? The answer depends on which country you're from! Student visas in Spain are usually easy to obtain after you get accepted into a Spanish university.

• Foreign (non-EU) students generally need a long-term visa to enter Spain, which can be requested from a Spanish consulate or embassy in your country of permanent residence.
• US students don't require a study visa if they plan on being in the country for less than 90 days.

Read on to learn if you need a visa to study in Spain and what documents you must submit to get one.

EU Students

EU/EEA/EFTA students don't need a student visa to study in Spain.

If your stay in Spain will be longer than 90 days, you must apply for a residence permit or Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within 30 days of arrival. This is done at your local Foreigner's Office (Oficina de Extranjeros).

To be officially added to the population register, you must bring a national identity card or passport and a valid European Health Insurance Card with you.

Non-EU Students

Obtaining a student visa to study in Spain for non-EU students is a bit trickier but it's usually easily obtainable after you've enrolled in a Spanish university.

The best practice is always to call or email the Spanish Embassy in your country and ask for specific information.

Find the full list of consulates and embassies here.

Usually, the requirements for a student visa consist of the following:

• A valid passport and passport photos
• Visa application form
• Medical insurance that will cover any costs for the duration of your studying in Spain. Student medical insurance is very important in case of a sudden illness or accident.
• Proof that you have the financial resources (at least €680 per month) for the period for which you're requesting the visa and, where applicable, the funds to guarantee your return to your country.
• Proof of accommodation
• Letter of admission to a Spanish institution
• A bank statement that is proof you can support yourself during your studies
• Proof you have paid the visa fee (~€150)

Unless you're doing a shorter course, your program will last longer than six months, so you'll also need:

• A criminal record certificate for Spain and your previous countries of residence in the last five years for crimes included under Spanish legislation.
• A medical certificate stating that you don't suffer from any diseases with serious repercussions for public health by the provisions of international health regulations.

If you are a minor (under 18), you will also need:

• Birth certificate
• Visa application form signed by both parents
• If applicable, proof that one parent has full custody
• Certified copies of both parents' ID or passports
• Parental authorization if the minor is traveling alone, signed by both parents/guardians

It's essential to know that you can't enter Spain with a tourist visa and then apply for a student visa. You'll have to return to your home country and apply from there.

Since the processing of documents can take time, make sure to apply in advance, preferably two to three months before traveling.

Visa Application for Family Members

Visa applications for a spouse, domestic partner, or child (under eighteen or with a disability) are allowed alongside an application for a study visa. This means your immediate family can enter and live legally with you during your studies in Spain.

Working While Studying

Can you work while studying in Spain? The answer is yes! Student visas in Spain are flexible, and students can work alongside their studies.

International students can usually work 20 hours per week. Sometimes, you may need to request permission, but your student visa will normally be sufficient. However, you can only work while studying in Spain until your student visa expires.

Due to the overwhelming demand for student visas in Spain, you must allow enough time before departing for your visa to be processed. We recommend that you apply at least a month in advance.