Student Visa in Spain 2024

What is the Student Visa? 

A Student Visa is a residence permit that allows individuals to stay in Spain for a period exceeding 90 days for the purpose of undertaking or extending studies at an authorized educational institution in Spain. This must be with a full-time program leading to the attainment of a degree or certificate. 

What are the benefits of the Student Visa? 

Obtaining the Student Visa in Spain offers numerous benefits, including: 

• Legal residency during the study period
• The ability to work part-time (up to 30 hours per week) 
• Free movement within the Schengen Area
• Access to renowned academic institutions, as Spain hosts numerous high-quality universities and schools across various disciplines
• Family reunification, allowing relatives to live in Spain alongside the primary applicant

What are the requirements for applying for a Student Visa? 

To apply for a Student Visa in Spain, you need to submit the following documents: 

1. Acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution
2. Valid passport with at least six months of validity
3. Proof of sufficient financial means to cover living and study expenses
4. Health insurance with coverage in Spain 
5. Federal criminal record certificate
6. Medical certificate proving good health 

The last two documents are only required if the studies in Spain will last more than six months. 

What is the duration of the Student Visa? 

The Student Visa duration is equivalent to the academic program for which it was granted. Generally, it can be renewed annually until the completion of studies. It is important to apply for renewal well in advance to avoid any inconveniences (60 days before expiration).

Is it possible to apply for a Student Visa from abroad? 

Yes, it is possible to apply for a Student Visa while in another country. In this case, the application must be made through the Spanish consulate in the country of residence. 

Once the Student Visa application is submitted at the consulate, the average processing time is two months. If approved, the visa must be collected within two months of notification. Failure to collect the bisa within this timeframe will result in the application being considered abandoned and the procedure will be archived. 

If the study stay in Spain exceeds six months, the applicant must visit the Immigration Office within one month of entering Spain to have their fingerprints taken. Note that fingerprinting is done by appointment only. Forty days after this step, the applicant can collect their foreigner identity card (TIE).

Is it possible to apply for a Student Visa while in Spain? 

Yes, it is possible to apply for a Student Visa while in Spain. In this case, the applicant must be made within 60 days of entering Europe. 

Once the Student Visa application is submitted in Spain, the average processing time is two months. If approved and the study stay exceeds six months, the applicant must visit the Immigration Office within one month to have their fingerprints taken. Note that fingerprinting is done by appointment only. Forty days after this step, the applicant can collect their foreigner identity card (TIE).

For this option, applicants need to be in Spain at three key moments: when submitting the visa application, for fingerprinting, and collecting their foreigner identity cards (TIE). Appointments are required for the latter two stages of the process. 

At Gentile Law, we assist students from over 15 countries in obtaining their Student Visa to achieve their academic goals in Spain. Our team of experts in Immigration Law is ready to guide you through each step of the process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transition. Contact us for personalized advice and start your educational journey in Spain with complete confidence.