How To Apply
Your Ultimate Guide To Studying In Spain
Spain, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and world-renowned academic institutions, is an ideal destination for students from around the world. If you come from outside of the EU and wish to embark on an educational journey in Spain, here’s everything you need to know to secure your student visa.
1. Determine the Type of Visa You Need
- Short-Term Stay (Up to 180 days): If your course lasts six months or less, you'll need a short-term student visa (Type D).
- Long-Term Stay (More than 180 days): For courses that span longer than six months, you will require a long-term student visa.
Note: you are only authorised to work on long-term visas!
2. Gather Necessary Documentation
While the specific requirements may vary depending on the local Spanish consulate or embassy, typically you'll need the following documents:
- Completed Application Form: Ensure you fill out the appropriate form for either the short-term or long-term visa. Click here to download an example.
- Passport: Valid for the entire duration of your stay, with at least one blank page.
- Passport-Sized Photos: Typically two, meeting Spain's photo requirements.
- Acceptance Letter: From a recognized educational institution in Spain, stating the course's duration, study hours, and other pertinent details. Your school will be able to provide you with this.
- Proof of Accommodation: Such as a rental agreement, dormitory reservation, or a letter from the host (if you'll be staying with someone). Your school can help you with this too.
- Financial Proof: Demonstrate that you can financially support yourself during your stay. This can be bank statements, proof of scholarships, or financial guarantees from parents/sponsors. See below for more details.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage valid in Spain for the entirety of your stay. We’ve shopped around for the best deal and can recommend this provider.
- Medical Certificate: A statement from your doctor ensuring you don't carry any contagious diseases as per international health regulations. Download a template here.
- Criminal Record Certificate: For stays over six months, from your home country or any country you've lived in the past five years.
3. Submit Your Application
- Apply in person at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country. You should book an appointment in advance. See the Spanish Government consulates page for a list of all consulates globally.
- Pay the visa application fee. Prices may vary, so it's best to check with your local consulate.
4. Wait for the Decision
Visa processing times can vary:
- Short-term visas typically take about 15 days.
- Long-term visas can take anywhere from 1 to 3 months.
Stay patient, and refrain from booking any non-refundable travel until you receive confirmation.
5. Arrive in Spain
Once you land in Spain:
- You have 90 days from arrival to register with the local authorities, specifically the Foreigner’s Office or Police Station, if your stay is longer than six months. You will receive a Student Residence Card (TIE: tarjeta de identidad de estudiante), which serves as your official ID during your time in Spain. We recommend this service for booking your TIE appointment.
Enjoy Your Academic Adventure in Spain!
Pro tips:
Always keep multiple copies of your documents.
Begin the application process well in advance. Remember, there might be delays.
Research if there are any bilateral agreements between Spain and your home country, which might simplify the process or provide additional opportunities.
Connect with students or expat groups in Spain for real-time advice and experiences.
Useful Resources
Official Spanish Visa Portal for the most up-to-date visa information.
Recommended health insurance provider
Recommended service for booking and organising TIE appointments in Barcelona.
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, visa requirements can change, and it’s always best to check with your nearest consulate.