The Spanish Student Visa is the gateway for non-EU students to study in Spain, whether at a university, research center, or vocational training school. Imagine the experiences – walking through Granada’s historic streets after lectures or sharing tapas in Madrid with peers.
Who Really Needs It?
This visa is essential for those from outside Europe. However, students from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland are exempted. They can freely move to Spain for studies, and yes, they can bring their families too.
Applying from Within Spain: Myth or Reality?
Gone are the days when students had to apply from their home countries. With changes in the Immigration Law, those already in Spain on a tourist visa can transition to a student visa without leaving.
The Application Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Decide on the Visa Type:
- Short-term: For courses between 91 to 180 days. This type of visa may not be extended and the obtention of a TIE once in Spain is not required.
- Long-term: For courses extending beyond six months. It is required to obtain a TIE card once in Spain.
- Document Round-up:
- Completed visa application form with recent photos.
- Valid passport.
- Proof of financial sustainability (around 600€/month in 2023, according to the IPREM index).
- Accommodation details.
- Acceptance letter from the educational institution.
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Medical certificate.
- Clean criminal record.
- For minors, parental consent is required.
- Submission Time: Applications can be made at the Spanish consulate in your home country or, if in Spain, at the local Delegación or Subdelegación de Gobierno.
Earning While Learning
Spain offers more than just education. Thanks to recent visa modifications, students can now work part-time, up to 30 hours a week, allowing them to earn and gain work experience simultaneously.
Life After Studies: What’s Next?
After completing studies, if one wishes to stay in Spain, there are several options:
- Job Hunt Visa: An additional year to secure a job or start a business.
- Work Transition: Transition from student status to a work permit.
- For the High-flyers: Obtain a highly-skilled professional visa for top-tier jobs.
- For the Entrepreneurs: The entrepreneur visa for those with innovative business ideas.
Wrapping Up
Studying in Spain is not just about academics; it’s a holistic experience. The Spanish Student Visa is more than just a permit; it’s an invitation to a unique adventure. So, prepare your documents and get ready for your Spanish escapade. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
FAQs: Spanish Student Visa
How to get a student visa in Spain?
The process involves deciding on the visa type (short-term or long-term), gathering required documents, and submitting them either at the Spanish consulate in your home country or, if you’re in Spain, at the local Delegación or Subdelegación de Gobierno.
Can I obtain a Spanish student visa if I entered Spain as a tourist?
Yes, if you entered Spain as a tourist, you can apply for a student visa since September 2018. In such case, you must apply at least one month before your stay as a tourist expires and meet specific requirements, including admission to an authorized institution, financial means of 600 Euros per month (as of 2023), and appropriate health insurance. For stays over six months, additional health and criminal record checks are needed. Family members cannot apply in this manner and must seek visas from a Spanish Consulate.
How long can I stay in Spain as a student?
If your study doesn’t exceed 6 months, the visa will be valid for the entire duration. For studies longer than 6 months, the visa will be valid for a 90-day stay.
How much does it cost to get a Spain student visa?
The visa application fee is $160 for US citizens and $85 for other nationalities. Additional processing fees may apply.
Can I leave Spain with a student visa?
Yes, with a type D student visa, you can obtain a TIE (Foreigner Identity Card) that allows you to enter and leave Spain while your visa is valid.
What happens if you overstay your student visa in Spain?
Overstaying beyond 90 days can result in fines, forced departure, or bans from entering Spain or other Schengen nations. Severe violations might lead to imprisonment.
How much funds must be in the bank account for a Spanish student visa?
You need to show you have at least €600 per month of study. If you have accommodation reserved for the entire period in Spain, it can be less. Alternatively, you can be sponsored by parents or other family members.
Can I take my wife to Spain on a student visa?
Yes, your spouse or registered partner, and dependent children under 18 can join you. You must prove you have the financial means to support them for at least 6 months.
Do I need a return flight with a student visa Spain?
For short-term visa applicants, a return flight ticket is required to prove your intention to return after your studies.
How hard is it to get a student visa in Spain
Several documents are required, including a medical certificate, proof of funds and Police Criminal Record clearance, to mention a few.
Am I able to travel throughout Europe with a Spanish student visa?
Yes, Spanish student visa holders can travel to other European countries in the Schengen Area for as long as the visa is valid.
How old funds are required for Spain student visa?
Bank statements from the previous 3-6 months are typically required.
Can my husband work while I study in Spain?
Yes, provided he obtains a work permit. Spouses and children older than 16 can work without a separate work permit.
How do I prove funds for international students in Spain?
Proof includes showing you have about $1000 a month for living expenses.
What is proof of accommodation for Spain student visa?
For private housing, a letter of invitation issued at a police station in Spain is required
What questions are asked in the Spanish student visa interview?
Common questions include reasons for choosing Spain, the chosen course, the specific university, and how you’ll fund your living and study expenses in Spain.
How do I know if my Spain student visa is approved?
Typically, you’ll be informed within 15 calendar days. In certain situations, it might take as long as 45 days.
What are the English requirements for Spain student visa?
Most universities in Spain require proof of at least B2 level English proficiency. This can be demonstrated with scores from tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Does having a student visa contribute to acquiring Spanish citizenship or long-term residency in Spain?
While the time on a student visa doesn’t directly contribute to the requirements for Spanish citizenship, it does count for half the time needed to secure a long-term EU permit in Spain. However, you must ensure you meet the minimum stay requirements in Spain when applying.
