The Spanish Student Visa
The Spanish Student Visa allows non-EU citizens to live and study in Spain for more than 90 days. It is the most common residence permit for international students, language learners, researchers, and interns who want to experience Spain’s rich culture and education system while pursuing full-time studies.
Whether you’re enrolling in a Spanish university, completing a master’s degree, studying Spanish at an accredited school, or undertaking research or training, this visa provides the legal right to live in Spain for the duration of your program.
Who needs a Student Visa for Spain?
If you are a non-EU, non-EEA, or non-Swiss citizen and plan to study in Spain for longer than three months, you’ll need a Student Visa (Visado de Estudios). Short-term study programs under 90 days can often be done on a Schengen tourist visa, but longer or degree-level studies require this specific permit.
The visa applies to:
- University and postgraduate students.
- Participants in officially recognized study or training programs.
-Students enrolled in Spanish language schools.
- Researchers and academic interns.
- Exchange students and those attending long-term courses.
What are the main eligibility requirements?
To apply for a Spanish Student Visa, you’ll generally need to meet the following conditions:
- Proof of admission to a recognized educational institution in Spain.
- Proof of sufficient financial means — typically at least 100% of the IPREM (~€7,200 per year in 2025) to cover living costs.
- Private health insurance valid in Spain for the duration of your studies.
- Clean criminal record covering the previous five years.
- Medical certificate confirming you are free from serious contagious diseases.
- Valid passport with at least one year of remaining validity.
- Proof of accommodation in Spain (rental agreement, host family, or university housing).
All documents issued outside Spain usually require legalization or an apostille and official Spanish translation.
What are the key benefits of the Student Visa?
Spain’s Student Visa offers multiple advantages for international students:
✅ Legal residence in Spain for the duration of your studies (initially 1 year, renewable).
✅ Permission to work part-time (up to 30 hours per week) while studying.
✅ Option to bring family members under a dependent residence permit.
✅ Freedom to travel within the Schengen Zone during your visa validity.
✅ Access to Spain’s education system, healthcare, and local services.
✅ Pathway to residence — after graduation, you can apply for a Job-Seeker Permit or switch to a Work or Entrepreneur Visa.
How to apply for the Spanish Student Visa
The process varies slightly by country, but typically follows these steps:
- Obtain an official letter of acceptance from your Spanish university or institution.
- Gather required documentation (financial proof, insurance, police clearance, medical certificate, passport photos).
- Book an appointment at the Spanish Consulate in your country of residence.
- Submit your application in person and pay the visa fee.
- Await processing — typically 4–8 weeks depending on the consulate.
- Once approved, travel to Spain and within 30 days apply for your TIE (residence card) at your local immigration office.
Can you work in Spain with a Student Visa?
Yes — under recent updates to Spanish immigration law, Student Visa holders may work up to 30 hours per week as long as employment is compatible with their studies. Work authorization is typically requested alongside your residence permit or through your employer. After completing your program, you may extend your stay by switching to a Job-Seeker Visa or applying for a residence and work permit (e.g. through the Entrepreneur or Digital Nomad Visa).
Why study in Spain?
Spain is one of Europe’s top destinations for international education — combining world-class universities, affordable tuition, and an exceptional quality of life. You’ll find vibrant student communities in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Granada, and Seville, access to global companies for internships, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle that makes studying here a truly rewarding experience.
Want to assess your eligibility for Spain's Student Visa? Book a call.