Spanish student visa

By Lucia Lagunas Reyes | Updated on 14 February 2024

Are you an international student considering studying in Spain? My Spain Visa is a law firm which helps students obtain their student visas to study in Spain. We understand the fact that securing a student visa can be challenging and as such, we are here to help you in every step of the way.

Before starting your studies in Spain, getting a student visa is very important as it allows official entry to the country, enrolls you on the desired program, and allows you to access banking services, among many others.

We provide help in filling out the application, collecting the required documents, booking appointments, submitting your application, and patiently waiting for its processing. We ensure you have all it takes to get a student visa, including an acceptance letter from a recognized institution, having all the necessary documents, and proving your financial means.

We are here to help you through the visa application process whether you wish to study Spanish language and culture, business studies, science, or another field of study. This article provides a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know to embark on your educational journey in Spain. Start your adventure with us today!

What is a Student Visa Spain?

The Spain Student Visa is crucial requirement used for welcoming non-EU students wishing to study in Spain. It is compulsory for all non-EU students intending to reside in Spain for over 3 months as part of their studies. The holder of this type of visa has the right to stay in Spain for as long as his studies – whether it is a trimester, an academic term, or even several years.

Why Opt for Spain for Your Studies?

Spain’s educational environment attracts foreign students because of its rich history, unique culture, and top-notch educational system. Spain, also has some of the best universities in the globally that provides a wide range of sources in many academic fields.

Moreover, studying in Spain presents an opportunity to learn Spanish, the second most widely spoken language worldwide. This linguistic proficiency can open doors to numerous job opportunities and secure employment within and beyond Spain.

Besides, Spain boasts a vibrant lifestyle marked by lively festivities, exquisite cuisine, and a sunny climate. The cost of living in Spain is relatively lower compared to other European countries, making it an affordable choice for most students.

In conclusion, choosing Spain as your study destination promises an enriching academic journey and an opportunity to immerse yourself in a distinctive culture.

Qualifying for the Spain Student Visa

Who is eligible for the Spanish student visa?

The Spain Student Visa serves as a permit for “non-European Union (non-EU), non-European Economic Area (non-EEA), and non-Swiss nationals” to undertake educational activities in Spain.

If your educational program extends beyond six months, you’ll need to apply for both a student visa and a student residency card.

Is it easy to get Spain student visa? What are the required qualifications and prerequisites?

Indeed, securing a Spain student visa is generally straightforward. To qualify for a Spain Student Visa, you need to fulfill several qualifications and prerequisites:

• Letter of Acceptance: You need to secure an acceptance letter from a recognized course of study in Spain.
• Fill Out the Application Form: The first thing is to complete the long-stay visa application form. This form will request you to provide your personal information, your intended course of study and travel timetable.
• Have all the relevant Documents:Make sure that you have the necessary documents when applying for a student visa in Spain. Some of these documents include a present passport, two recent passport pictures, copies of all passport pages, a letter of admission from an accredited Spanish university, proof of residence and a notarized letter,which is meant to be used for purposes by minors below the age of 18 years.
• Schedule an appointment: After ensuring you have all the necessary papers, make a booking for an appointment with a nearby Spanish embassy or consulate.

Apply for student visa in Spain

Step-by-step Guide to Applying for Student visa

The process of obtaining a Spain Student Visa requires several stages:

1. Complete filing the application Paper: First, fill out in the long-stay visa application. On this form, you will be asked information such as who are you, what are the courses you intend to study and where do you want to travel?
2. Acquire necessary documents required for a student visa in Spain: There are some essential papers that you will need for study in Spain. Some of them include; two recent photos of yourself, copies of your passports’ pages, a letter of admission from an authorised school in Spain, proof of accommodation, notarized letter, if you are under 18 years old, and proof that you have sufficient financial to support yourself.
3. Book an Appointment: Once you have all the required documents in order, you’ll need to schedule an appointment at the Spanish embassy or consulate in your home country.
4. Submit Your Application: During your appointment, you’ll submit your application and documents. You’ll also need to pay the visa application fee at this time.
5. Await Processing: After your application is accepted as complete by the Consular Section, the procedure involves consultations with other authorities. This process can take up to 1 month from the day the Consular Section forwards the documents through the visa system.

Essential Documents and Submission Guidelines for Student visa

Here are the documents you’ll need to apply for a student visa to Spain:

• A completed long-stay visa application form.
• A valid passport. Ensure your passport is valid for your entire stay, is not more than 10 years old, and has at least two blank pages.
• Two recent passport-sized photos.
• Copies of your passport pages. These should include your personal details and any previous visas.
  
  • For Study: A letter of acceptance from an accredited educational institution in Spain. The letter should specify the duration of your stay.
  • Proof of Accommodation: This could be a rent or dorm agreement, or a letter from the academic institution confirming your accommodation.
  • Proof of Financial Means: As of 2019, you were required to have €540 for each month of your stay. To demonstrate your financial means, you can submit bank statements from the last three months, scholarship documents, or documents proving that you have paid for the studies or are covered by an organization.
    

    If your parents or legal guardians will cover your expenses, they need to sign a notarized agreement stating their commitment. Additionally, you should submit an original and a copy of your parents’ account statements for the last two months as well as a photocopy of their passports.

  • Health Insurance: You need to secure health insurance valid for one year from an insurance company authorized to operate in Spain. Travel insurance is not acceptable.Documents that verify the purpose of your stay:

• If your stay exceeds six months, you must submit an official medical certificate (no more than three months old), duly apostilled and translated into Spanish. You also need a certificate of criminal record, issued at your local police station in your home country (not older than 90 days), duly apostilled and translated into Spanish.

You can submit your documents in person, by appointment only, to the BLS Spain Visa Application Center in Washington DC.

How much money do you need for a student visa in Spain?

The cost of obtaining a Spanish student visa varies depending on your country of origin. For example, in the United States citizens should pay $141 while in Canada a citizen pays $83. This is however not the case for other nationals who normally pay around €80. These are variable fees, and they may have changed since this writing, so you should confirm the current charges from the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country.

Additional Expenses to Consider

In addition to the visa application fee, you may incur the following expenses:

• Living Expenses: Upon entry into Spain, immigration officials may require you to submit evidence that you have enough money to cover your expenses during your stay. Current immigration regulations require you to have at least 96.50 euros per day when you are in Spain, with a minimum of 865.50 euros per year.
• Health Insurance: You should have medical insurance from a legally operating company in Spain. This insurance policy can be costly and may vary, but it ranges from €70 to €180 annually.
• Educational Materials for Your Study: It is essential to set aside funds towards books, supplies, and other learning materials that may cost up to €900 each year since you are applying to study in Spain.

Processing Time and What to Expect

The processing time for a student visa for Spain may vary and can take anywhere between two weeks to three months. As a result, it is recommended that you start the process of applying for a Spanish study visa early on. This process may even take up to four or even eight weeks. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that Some consulates may not allow you to apply for your visa more than three months in advance.

Handling Delays

It is advised that you have patience and maintain contact with the Spanish embassy or consulate if the processing of your visa is delayed. For students who are traveling to Spain, it is typical to anticipate delays in the visa application procedure. You can get in touch with the college or university you intend to attend in Spain if the delay appears unreasonable. They might be able to offer guidance or assistance.

However, depending on a number of variables, including busy times of year and unique circumstances, the processing time may vary. So remember, it’s always a good idea to apply early to give yourself plenty of time for processing.

Rights and Limitations of the Spain Student Visa

What Spain Student Visa Holders Are and Are Not Allowed to Do

The Spain student visa enables one to remain in Spain longer than three months for purposes of education or trainee, exchange student or unpaid interns. On the other hand, EU and Swiss citizens do need visas for entering and studying in Spain.

In August 2022, the Spanish government implemented new changes to the student visa process, making it easier for students to stay in Spain for longer periods. These changes aim to facilitate obtaining work permits for non-EU foreigners, both employed and self-employed, and promote self-employment. Foreigners with student visas are now allowed to work longer hours even without a foreigner identity card. Students can work automatically with their student visas.

However, there are certain restrictions. For example, if the card was issued before August 16, 2022, the foreigner must apply for compatibility with studies in order to work.

Implications of Breaching Visa Terms

Violating the conditions of your Spain Student Visa can lead to severe repercussions. As per Spain’s Organic Law 4/2000, such violations are considered serious offenses for foreigners and can result in a fine ranging from €501 to €10,000 or expulsion from Spain, depending on the severity of the case.

Legal Considerations of the Spain Student Visa

Schengen Visas

The Schengen Agreement created an area with no borders inside Europe, which means people can travel freely between the 26 countries in this area. If your study program lasts only 90 days, you can undertake your studies on a Schengen visa. This visa permits non-EU/EEA residents to stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period for purposes such as tourism, family visits, studying, or volunteer work.

The Role of the Court of Justice of Madrid

The Court of Justice of Madrid plays a vital role in the Spain Student Visa process.Should the Spanish authorities deny approval of your student visa, you should be issued a form indicating the reasons why your visa was disapproved. However, for such types of litigation, you have two months within which to file an appeal for the review of your case at the Superior Court of Justice in Madrid. The court adjudicates cases involving errors committed in the exercise of administrative duties.

The Significance of a Clean Criminal background

Maintaining a clean criminal history is crucial when applying for any visa, and the Spain Student Visa is no exception. You need to provide a certificate of criminal record, issued at your local police station in your home country, not older than 90 days, duly apostilled and translated into Spanish. This requirement ensures that individuals intending to study in Spain have not been involved in criminal activities.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, securing a Spain Student Visa is a vital step for any international student aspiring to study in Spain. It’s not just a legal necessity; it’s your gateway to a rewarding educational journey in one of Europe’s most vibrant countries. Here are some key takeaways:

• Begin Early: Initiate the application process well ahead of time to accommodate any unforeseen delays.
• Financial Planning: Make sure you have adequate funds to support your living expenses while studying.
• Health Insurance: Secure health insurance from an authorized provider to fulfill the visa requirements.
• Stay Updated: Keep abreast of any changes in visa regulations or requirements.

To all prospective applicants, with the help of My Spain Visa it will be easy to seize this opportunity with enthusiasm! Studies in Spain not only offer academic growth but also a chance to immerse yourself in a lively culture, forge lifelong connections, and create unforgettable memories. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)

FAQ Student visa Spain

What is the validity period of a Spain Student Visa?

A Spain Student Visa is issued to individuals who want to stay in Spain for more than 90 days for studying, training, internships, or volunteering. The visa may be valid for only 90 days if you plan to study for more than 6 months. In most cases, type D visa of the Spanish type can be either 90 or 180 days long.

Will I be allowed to travel with my family, if I am holding the student visa Spain?

Yes, you are allowed to bring your family to Spain while you are studying. However, there are some restrictions you need to it. If you have a study visa, you may bring only your immediate family with you. Specifically, you can bring a spouse or civil partner. You may also bring children who are considered minors. In Spain, this means children under the age of 18 years.

Can I travel to other European countries with a Spain Student Visa?

Yes, if you have a type D visa, which is like a permit to live in a country, you can easily visit other Schengen countries for short periods of time. It will be similar to having a multiple-entry type C visa or being visa-free. You only have to follow the 90-out-of-180-day rule for the days you stay in Schengen countries, excluding Spain. Once you enter the Schengen Area, you can travel to any other Schengen country using the same Visa because there are no border checks within the area.

What happens if my Spain Student Visa application is rejected?

If your Spain Student Visa application is rejected, you will receive a visa rejection letter from the consular service. You have one month from the date of being notified to make an appeal. Spanish authorities then have three months in which to reassess your application and notify you of their decision. The chances of success depend on the reason for the rejection.

How do I get a student visa in Spain after it expires?

To renew your Spain Student Visa while in Spain, You can start the renewal process up to 60 days before your current student visa expires. If you’re late, you can also renew a student visa in Spain up to 90 days after your current student visa expires.

What are the language requirements for a Spain Student Visa?

There are no specific language requirements mentioned for a Spain Student Visa. But before requesting a student visa for Spain, you must be admitted to a course. The course could be a Spanish Language Course accredited by the Cervantes Institute, other language courses, Professional Training Courses, industry-specific training, or Tertiary Education, including undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD level study.

Do I need to register with the local authorities after arriving in Spain?

Yes, you do. If you plan to stay long-term in Spain, you must register with the Spanish authorities and get a national identity number. You have to do this within three months of your arrival. You must apply in person at the Non-nationals Office in the province where you intend to stay or establish your residence or, failing that, at the relevant local police station. You also need to be registered with your municipal council in order to be able to apply for residence.

What happens if I overstay my Spain Student Visa?

Overstaying your Spain Student Visa can lead to serious consequences. If you overstay, you would be in an irregular status in Spain. This is a very serious offence, and it can result in a fine ranging from €501 to €10,000 or expulsion from Spain. In the event that you receive a fine, the Spanish authorities will let you know whether you must leave the country after entering it illegally and, If you do have to leave, they will also tell you how many days you have to leave.

Can I change my course of study while on a Spain Student Visa?

Yes, you can change your course of study while on a Spain Student Visa. However, this might require you to inform the Spanish authorities and provide proof of acceptance into the new course.

What is the easiest student visa for Spain?

The Schengen Student Visa is generally considered the easiest type of student visa for Spain as it is intended for stays not exceeding 90 days.

Can I extend my Spain Student Visa?

Yes, you can extend your Spain Student Visa if you wish to continue your studies in Spain. However, it’s advisable to apply for an extension well before your current visa expires.

Can I work while studying on a Spain Student Visa?

Yes, you can work part-time or full-time while studying, provided you meet certain requirements. You are allowed to work for up to 20 hours only per week during the academic year, and during academic breaks you can full time . However, your work should not interfere with your studies. Additionally, your employer must obtain a work permit for you.