A Spanish student visa is your ticket to a world of possibilities for anyone wanting an extended stay in the country – here is how to apply.
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For anyone considering spending more than 90 days in Spain, the Spanish student visa is the perfect way to secure an extended stay with numerous possibilities for travel, new experiences, and new career opportunities. But who is eligible for the student visa, what does it allow you to do, and how do you apply? In this article, we’ll answer all these questions in detail – let’s dive in.
What is the Spanish student visa?
The Spanish student visa offers a unique opportunity for non-EU citizens to remain in Spain for more than 90 days. This is the standard travel visa limit for visitors from countries such as the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. Visitors from certain countries like Russia, China, or South Africa face even stricter regulations, needing a Schengen visa just to enter Spain, and they’re still limited to a 90-day stay. This restriction can be a hurdle for those aspiring to stay in Spain longer, whether to explore Europe, immerse themselves in Spanish culture, take a career break, or simply learn Spanish.
This is where the Spanish student visa becomes a valuable solution. In essence, the Spanish student visa is a temporary residence permit, designed primarily for educational purposes. Although it does not permit you to work (at least initially) it offers a pathway to staying in Spain for more than 90 days. For those seeking to combine the benefits of education with the freedom to explore, the Spanish student visa could be the perfect option.
How can you apply for a Spanish student visa?
You can obtain a student visa just by signing up for a Spanish course at an accredited language school in Spain. Usefully, there is no age limit to applying for it too. Unlike work or residence visas, which often require a job offer or extensive documentation, the student visa is less complex. Below, you can see some language schools that will help you get a student visa in Spain.
What types of Spanish student visa are there?
There are two types of visa: short-term and long-term. Spain offers two types of student visas depending on the length of your stay. The short-term visa (4-6 months) is ideal for students enrolled in shorter courses. It’s a straightforward option for those who plan to study in Spain for just a semester or a few months. The long-term Visa (6-24 months) is best if you’re planning to study for a longer period, this visa is for you. It allows you to stay for up to 24 months and apply for a Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE), which serves as a residency permit. The long-term visa is renewable, meaning you can continue your studies or even pursue further education in Spain without leaving the country.
What requirements are there for a short- and long-term visa?
Getting a student visa for Spain involves meeting specific criteria. Here are the seven key requirements for both the short and long-term visa:
- Non-EU/EEA or Swiss Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a country outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
- Eligibility to Enter Spain: You should not be from a country banned from entering Spain.
- Enrollment in an Accredited Program: You must be accepted into a full-time program at an accredited Spanish institution, with a minimum of 20 hours per week.
- Proof of Financial Means: You need to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your stay and return journey.
- Health Insurance: Public or private health insurance from a company authorized in Spain is required.
- Completed Visa Application: You must fill out and submit the official visa application form.
- Additional Documentation: Depending on your nationality, you may need to provide proof of residence or other documents required by the Spanish consulate in your country.
The long-term visa has two extra requirements. You need a clean criminal record – you must not have a criminal record in Spain or your country of residence for the past five years – and a medical certificate proving you don’t have any serious communicable diseases that are mentioned in Spain’s 2005 International Health Guidelines.
Is there help available for getting a Spanish student visa?
The rules themselves may appear straightforward. However, Spain has a bit of a reputation for making administrative tasks difficult or lengthy. Most accredited institutions can provide assistance with the application process, and answer your specific questions. It’s recommended you take whatever help you can get to avoid unnecessary delays. Here are some options:
The Student Visa Application Process
Applying for a Spanish student visa can seem daunting, but breaking it down step by step makes it manageable. The process varies depending on whether you apply from your home country or within Spain. Let’s look at both scenarios.
If applying from your home country:
- Fill out the application form: Download and complete a student visa application form, which should be available on the website of your nearest Spanish consulate or embassy. If you can’t find one then contact the consulate or embassy directly.
- Book an appointment: Schedule an appointment at your nearest Spanish consulate or embassy.
- Pay the visa fee: Fees vary depending on the consulate, so check the specific amount beforehand.
- Submit your documents: At your appointment, submit your application form along with the required documents, such as your acceptance letter, proof of financial means, and health insurance.
- Wait for a decision: Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once approved, collect your visa from the consulate.
If applying from within Spain:
- Seek assistance or go solo: You can either hire a lawyer to submit your documents online or handle the process yourself by scheduling an appointment at the nearest Foreigner’s Office (Oficina de Extranjería). It’s recommended you get support to avoid unnecessary delays.
- Submit your application: Attend your appointment and submit the required documents.
- Processing time: This can take anywhere from 3-6 months. You can legally stay in Spain during this period, but it’s advised not to travel until your visa is approved.
Once you’ve obtained your visa, if you’re on a long-term visa, you’ll then need to apply for a TIE within 30 days of arrival in Spain. The TIE is the ‘tarjeta de identidad de extranjero’ or ‘foreigner’s ID card’. It’s essentially your residency permit. To get the TIE you need to make an appointment at a Policía Nacional station, submit your documents, and wait for your card to be ready (usually takes 30-45 days).
What are the top Spanish schools in Spain that qualify for a Spanish student visa?
You can get a Spanish student visa by enrolling in a Spanish language course at an accredited institution, making it a popular alternative to university study. Many top schools offer excellent courses and have advisors to help you through the visa process. See our selected top Spanish schools in Spain below.
Speakeasy BCN
Located in the heart of Barcelona, Speakeasy BCN is a top-rated Spanish language school known for its immersive courses and vibrant community. Accredited by the Cervantes Institute, Speakeasy BCN offers a range of courses from beginner to advanced levels. The school’s student advisors are well-versed in the visa process and provide comprehensive support to international students, ensuring a smooth application experience.
Find out more at Speakeasybcn.com
Camino Barcelona
Camino Barcelona is another excellent option for studying Spanish in the Catalan capital. The school offers small class sizes, personalized attention, and a range of cultural activities to enhance your learning experience. As an accredited institution, Camino Barcelona provides the necessary documentation for your student visa application and has a team ready to assist you every step of the way.
Find out more at Caminobarcelona.com
Enforex Madrid
Enforex Madrid is part of the Enforex network, one of the largest and most respected language school chains in Spain. Located in the bustling capital, Enforex Madrid offers a wide variety of Spanish courses suitable for all levels. The school’s central location and vibrant student community make it an ideal place to study. Their student advisors are on hand to help with visa paperwork, ensuring you meet all the requirements.
Find out more at Enforex.com
Tandem Madrid
Tandem Madrid is renowned for its innovative teaching methods and welcoming atmosphere. Situated in a beautiful, historic building, the school offers a wide range of Spanish courses tailored to different needs. Tandem Madrid is accredited by the Cervantes Institute, and their experienced staff can guide you through the student visa process, making it easier to focus on your studies.
Find out more at Tandemmadrid.com