What is a Spain Study Visa?
A Spain Study Visa is a type of visa required for non-EU/EEA and Swiss nationals who plan to study, intern, volunteer, or participate in research programs in Spain for more than 90 days. It allows students to reside in Spain while pursuing academic or professional training.
- For stays over 90 days, a Spain Study Visa is required for studies, internships, volunteer work or British Council language assistants.
- For stays under 90 days, a visa isn’t needed for EU/EEA and Swiss nationals.
- Non-EU nationals, such as those from the UK, the US, Australia, Canada or New Zealand with visa-free agreements, usually don’t need a visa. This would depend on whether nationals of third countries (non EU/EEA, Swiss nationals) require or not a Schengen Visa as per Schengen Regulations.
Types of Spain Study Visa
- Short-Term Study Visa for Schengen Visa Required Nationals: For studies or training under 90 days, focused on Spain only. Schengen visa waiver nationals can study in Spain for up to 90 days in any 180 day period without a visa.
- Long-Term Study Visa: For programs over 90 days, such as degrees or internships.
- Student Visa for Internships: Covers internships not included in other visa types.
- Au Pair Visa: For au pairs studying while working in Spain.
- Doctoral Study Visa: For doctoral or advanced research programs.
When to Apply for a Spain Study Visa
A Spain study visa allows you to engage in a variety of activities during your stay, including:
- Full-time studies leading to a degree or certification.
- Doctoral studies or advanced academic programs.
- Participation in student mobility programs for secondary education.
- Training placements at public or private institutions (outside of internship visa requirements).
- Volunteering under public interest programs.
- Au pair work and conversation class assistant roles.
- Part-time jobs in Spain
How to Apply for a Spain Study Visa
- Who Can Apply: Students residing in or regularly present in the University consular district. Applications must be submitted in person or by a parent (if the applicant is a minor).
- When to Apply: Submit applications well in advance of your study program’s start, as the process requires consultations with authorities.
- Where to Apply: Submit your application at BLS International Visa Centers in Manchester or London for UK applicants.
- Proof of Receipt: After submission, you’ll receive a receipt with a tracking code to monitor the status of your application online.
- Rectification: If any documents are missing, or further details are needed, you may be asked to provide them or attend an interview.
- Visa Review Time: A decision is usually made within 1 month from the date of submission, although this may take longer if additional documents or interviews are required.
- Visa Collection: Once approved, you must collect your visa in person or via a representative (for minors) within 2 months.
- Visa Refusals: If your visa or study permit is refused, you’ll be notified in writing. You can appeal this decision by submitting a reconsideration request within 1 month, or apply for judicial review at the High Court of Justice of Madrid within 2 months.
- Validity of Visa:
- For stays under 6 months: The visa covers the entire stay, and no Foreigner Identity Card is needed.
- For stays over 6 months: The visa is valid for 90 days. You must apply for a Foreigner Identity Card within 1 month of arrival in Spain at the local Foreign Nationals’ Office or Police Station.
General / Main Required Documents for Spain Study Visa
- Completed Visa Application Form: Fully filled and signed.
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with photocopies of all pages.
- Proof of Enrollment: Letter of acceptance from a Spanish institution.
- Proof of Financial Means: Your or your parents Bank statements or scholarship details showing financial support during your stay.
- Health Insurance: Coverage for the entire duration of your stay in Spain.
- Proof of Accommodation: Confirmation of housing during your studies.
- Passport-Sized Photos: Recent color photographs as per consulate requirements.
Extras:
- Au Pairs: Include an au pair agreement and host family details.
- Volunteer Programmes: Provide details of the program, including proof of public interest goals.
How to Fill Out Your Spanish Student Visa Application
You can access the application form here.
- From 1. to 11. They are pretty simple personal information.
- 12. Select the first option “Ordinary Passport”.
- From 13. to 17. They are document information.
- 18. Select “No” if you’re not living in a different country than your nationality, or “Yes” if you are but you will need to provide details about your residence permit or equivalent document (permit number, expiry date, etc.).
- 19. Write “Estudiante” (Student)
- 20. Select the option “Estudios/Studies” in the second column and row
- 21. Enter the date you plan to arrive in Spain.
- 22. Most students choose Multiple entries for flexibility to travel back and forth.
- 23. Write the address where you will be staying.
- 24. NIE (Foreigner’s Identification Number): Leave this blank if you’re applying for the first time, as it’s only assigned after you’re in Spain.
- 25. Date of notification of the resolution delivered by the competent body: This is the date when the immigration authorities notify you of their decision regarding your visa or permit. Leave this blank if you haven’t received a decision yet.
- 26. Data of the individual resident in Spain, sponsor: Only applicable if you are applying for family reunification. You need to provide the name and relevant details of the person sponsoring your visa who resides in Spain. Leave this blank if it does not apply to you.
- 27. Data of the employer or company: If you’re applying for a work or internship visa, provide the name, address, and contact details of your employer or the company offering the internship.
- 28. Data of educational or research center: If applying for a student or research visa, include the details of your educational institution or research center (name, address, contact info).
- 29. For temporary movement of minors: Only relevant if a minor is participating in an educational program sponsored by public or non-profit organizations. Provide the necessary details of the program and entities involved.
- 30. and 31. Place, Date and Signature
Spain Study Visa FAQs
Do I need a Spanish Study Visa?
EU/EEA Citizens: No study visa required if you’re from the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA). You can freely study in Spain without a visa.
Non-EU/EEA Citizens: Yes, a study visa is required if you’re from a country outside the EU/EEA and plan to study in Spain for more than 90 days.
Short-Term Courses (Less than 90 Days): No visa required if you’re from a non-EU country with visa-free entry into the Schengen area and you plan to take a short course (less than 90 days).
Non-EU Citizens staying longer than 90 days: Yes, you will need a visa, specifically a long-term student visa for any course or study program longer than 90 days.
Internships and Study Programs: Yes, you need a visa if your internship or study program lasts more than 90 days, even if it’s unpaid.
Visa Renewal: Yes, you can renew your student visa if you’re continuing your studies beyond the original duration of your visa.
Residency Card for Long-Term Study: Yes, you will need a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) if your study lasts more than six months. This residency card is mandatory.
Can I Work While I Study in Spain?
Yes, students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week).
For more details, visit Can I Work During My Erasmus Year?.
What Happens After My Application is Approved?
You’ll need to collect your visa in person. Once in Spain, apply for your student residence card within 30 days.
How to Apply for a Student Residence Card in Spain After Visa?
After arriving in Spain, apply at the local Foreign Nationals Office for the Tarjeta de Estudiante.
How to Apply for a Spanish Student Residence Permit?
You must apply within 30 days of arrival at a Foreign Nationals Office.
Extending the Student Visa for Spain
You can extend your visa at a local immigration office, providing proof of ongoing studies.
How to Obtain a Student Visa for Spain for UK and US Citizens?
US and UK citizens must apply at the Spanish consulate with the necessary documents.
Do I Need Health Insurance to Study in Spain?
Yes, health insurance is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a Spanish student visa.
What Happens if My Spain Student Visa is Rejected?
You will receive a notification in writing with reasons for the rejection. You may file an appeal to reconsider the decision
How Long Does it Take to Get a Student Visa for Spain?
It can take between 1 to 3 months, depending on the consulate’s workload. Sometimes, responses are as quick as 15 days
How to Obtain a Student Visa for Spain for UK Citizens?
UK students must apply at a Spanish consulate in the UK, following the specific visa requirements for non-EU nationals.
Book a call with theInterna team to get help.
Can my family accompany me while I study in Spain?
Family members (spouse, partner, or children) can accompany but cannot work.
Apply for a Spain Study Visa with theInterna’s Help
If you need assistance with your Spanish student visa application, you can contact theInterna for support. Their team is available to help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
