What is a Student Visa in Spain?

A student visa in Spain is an authorization that allows non-EU citizens to legally remain in the country for more than 90 days for the purpose of studying, academic training, professional internships, exchange programs or language courses at authorized centers.

Spain has become one of the preferred destinations for international students thanks to the quality of its universities, its climate, the competitive cost of living and the post-graduation accommodation opportunities.

If your academic stay exceeds 90 days, you will need to apply for a student visa before traveling to Spain.

Who can apply for a student visa?

They can request this authorization:

• University students.
• Master's or postgraduate students.
• Business school students.
• Vocational Training (FP) students.
• People enrolled in language courses.
• Researchers.
• Participants in academic exchange programs.
• People who do professional internships or volunteer work.

Requirements to obtain a Student Visa in Spain

To apply for the visa you must meet the following requirements:

1. Letter of admission

You must have been admitted to an educational center authorized by the Spanish authorities.

2. Sufficient financial resources

It is necessary to demonstrate financial solvency to cover living expenses throughout the study period.

As a reference, an amount equivalent to 100% of the current monthly IPREM is usually required.

3. Private health insurance

You must have health insurance with no co-payments and full coverage throughout Spain.

4. Criminal record certificate

Mandatory for adults when the stay exceeds six months.

5. Medical certificate

Some consulates require proof that you do not suffer from diseases that could have repercussions for public health.

6. Accommodation in Spain

You must provide proof of where you will reside during your stay.

How long does a student visa take?

The usual processing time is between 15 and 60 days depending on the Spanish consulate where you submit the application.

Therefore, it is advisable to start the procedure several months in advance.

Can I work in Spain with a student visa?

Yeah.

Current regulations allow foreign students to work legally while studying.

You will be able to:

• Working for someone else.
• Working for yourself.
• Balancing studies and employment.
• Complete paid internships.

Your work activity must be compatible with the training you are undertaking.

Many students take advantage of this opportunity to gain professional experience in Spain and improve their future job prospects.

What happens when I finish my studies?

Once studies are completed, there are different alternatives to remain legally in Spain.

Among the most common are:

• Amendment to work permit.
• Residence for highly qualified professionals.
• Residence for entrepreneurs.
• Job search authorization.

This last option allows you to stay in Spain while you look for a job opportunity related to your training.

We recommend you consult our guide on residence permits in Spain.

Can I bring my family with a student visa?

Yeah.

Spanish legislation allows for authorizations to be requested for accompanying family members.

They will be able to accompany you:

• Your spouse.
• Your registered partner.
• Your minor children.
• Dependent older children in certain cases.

Family members will receive authorization linked to the duration of your stay for studies.

Requirements for bringing accompanying family members

In addition to the general requirements, you will need to demonstrate:

• Additional financial resources for each family member.
• Health insurance for all family members.
• Documentation proving the family relationship.
• Valid passports.

The amount of money required increases depending on the number of accompanying family members.

Can family members work in Spain?

Depending on the type of authorization granted and the regulations in force at any given time, family members may have access to the Spanish labor market.

Therefore, it is advisable to analyze each case individually before starting the application.

Do I need to obtain a NIE when I arrive in Spain?

Yeah.

Most international students need to obtain their Foreigner Identity Number (NIE), an essential document for:

• Open a bank account.
• Signing rental agreements.
• Hire internet and telephone service.
• Carry out administrative procedures.
• Work legally.

You can consult our complete guide on the NIE for foreigners in Spain.

How can NIESPANA help you?

At NIESPANA we have been helping foreigners to settle legally in Spain for over 23 years.

We manage:

• Student visa.
• NIE for foreigners.
• TIE.
• Opening a bank account.
• Census.
• Residences and permits.
• Procedure for accompanying family members.

Our team analyzes each case individually to maximize the chances of approval and avoid errors that could delay the process.

Book your appointment

If you want to study in Spain and come with your family, we can help you throughout the entire process.

Contact NIESPANA and receive professional advice for your student visa, NIE and residence in Spain.