Student Visa for Spain: Complete Guide
Planning to study in Spain? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a student visa to pursue your education in one of Spain's most exciting regions.
Student Stay Authorization (Long-Term Studies)
This is a long-term stay authorization that allows you to remain in Spain for a period longer than 90 days for:
a) Higher Education Studies
- Official university studies or private degrees (“títulos propios”).
- Higher artistic education, in on-site or hybrid formats.
- Higher-level vocational training, higher professional studies in arts & design, and higher-level sports education.
You can apply from your country of origin at least 2 months before the course starts, or from Spain at least 2 months before your current legal stay expires and before your studies begin.
- Proof of sufficient financial means.
- Health insurance (meeting the specific requirements to reside in Spain).
- Proof of admission to an authorized center for higher education studies and proof of payment of enrollment/tuition fees.
- Criminal record certificate (apostilled or legalized as applicable). Only for studies longer than 6 months.
- Medical certificate confirming you do not suffer from diseases under the 2005 International Health Regulations. Only for studies longer than 6 months.
b) Non-Higher Education Studies
All studies not included in the “Higher Education Studies” list, including:
- Post-compulsory secondary education (e.g., mid-level vocational training programs).
- Student mobility programs.
- Volunteer services.
- Training activities.
You can apply only from your country of origin at least 2 months before the course starts.
- Proof of sufficient financial means.
- Health insurance (meeting the specific requirements to reside in Spain).
- Proof of admission to an authorized center and proof of payment of enrollment/tuition fees.
- Criminal record certificate (apostilled or legalized as applicable). Only for studies longer than 6 months.
- Medical certificate confirming you do not suffer from diseases under the 2005 International Health Regulations. Only for studies longer than 6 months.
Why Study in Spain?
Spain offers exceptional educational opportunities combined with a unique cultural experience. Here's what makes studying in Spain special:
- World-class universities and educational institutions
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant student community
- Excellent quality of life and affordable living costs
- Gateway to explore Spain and Europe
- Opportunities to learn or improve Spanish language skills
Student Visa Requirements for Spain
To apply for a student visa to study in Spain, you must meet the following requirements:
📄 Admission Letter
Official acceptance from an educational institution in Spain for a full-time program
💰 Financial Proof
Evidence of sufficient funds (commonly assessed using the IPREM benchmark)
🏥 Health Insurance
Valid health insurance coverage for the entire duration of your studies
🏠 Accommodation Proof
Documentation showing where you'll be living in Spain
📋 Clean Record
Criminal background check (apostilled/legalized when required) for stays over 6 months
🩺 Medical Certificate
Medical certificate for stays over 6 months (International Health Regulations 2005)
Required Documents
- Completed visa application form signed by the applicant
- Valid passport with sufficient validity and blank pages
- Recent passport photos meeting consulate specifications
- Acceptance letter from your educational institution in Spain
- Proof of payment of tuition/enrollment fees or scholarship letter
- Financial evidence (bank statements, sponsorship documents, etc.)
- Health insurance policy valid in Spain for the required period
- Accommodation proof in Spain (rental contract, residence confirmation, etc.)
- Criminal background check (if applicable, apostilled/legalized and translated)
- Medical certificate (if applicable, typically issued within the last 3 months)
Application Process for Spain
Secure Admission
Apply and receive acceptance from an educational institution in Spain. Ensure your program meets the requirements for a student authorization.
Gather Documents
Collect and prepare all documents. Allow time for apostilles/legalizations and certified translations if needed.
Schedule Appointment
Book an appointment at the Spanish Consulate (if applying from abroad) or prepare the filing route from Spain if applicable.
Submit Application
Submit the application with the required documentation and pay any applicable fees.
Wait for Decision
Processing times vary by consulate/office. We help you avoid delays caused by missing or inconsistent paperwork.
Enter Spain / Start Your Stay in Spain
Once approved, enter Spain and follow any post-arrival steps required in your case.
TIE / Local Formalities in Spain
If your stay requires it, we guide you with the appointment and documentation to obtain your foreigner card (TIE) and complete local formalities.
Living in Spain as a Student
Once you arrive in Spain with your student stay authorization, here are key practical points:
Cost of Living
Monthly expenses vary by city and lifestyle, typically including:
- Accommodation
- Food and groceries
- Transportation
- Books and materials
- Leisure and entertainment
Work Permissions
Student stay holders may work under certain conditions (depending on the applicable rules and authorization), as long as work does not interfere with studies.
Renewing Your Student Authorization in Spain
If your studies extend beyond your initial authorization period, you may need to renew it in time. We help you plan the renewal and file within the permitted time window.