What is the Student Visa for Spain?
The Spain Student Visa is designed for non-EU citizens who wish to study in Spain. This visa allows students to live and study in Spain, offering access to the country's world-class education system, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant student life. It provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in Spain's dynamic environment while pursuing your academic goals.
Who can benefit from the Spain Student Visa?
Non-EU citizens looking to study in Spain, including:
- Full-time students enrolled in a recognized educational institution
- Doctorate students engaging in research and academic work
- Those participating in professional training programs that contribute to your educational goals
- Participants of student exchange programs
- Volunteers contributing to programs working in areas of public interest.
- Au pairs
- English Language Teaching assistants (Auxiliares de Conversación)
Main Benefits of the
Student Visa
Access to World-Class Education
Spain is home to some of the top universities and academic institutions, offering a high-quality education that is recognized globally.
Cultural Immersion and Language Skills
Studying in Spain provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Spanish culture and language. Enhancing your Spanish skills can open doors to international job opportunities and foster deeper connections with locals and fellow students.
Vibrant Student Life
Spain boasts a dynamic and diverse student community. This offers you a well-rounded experience beyond academics, making your time in Spain both enriching and memorable.
Work Opportunities
With a Spanish Student Visa, you can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during your studies. This provides a chance to gain practical experience, supplement your income, and develop your professional network in Spain.
Stay in Spain After Graduation
Upon completing your studies, you may be eligible to stay in Spain to seek employment or pursue further educational opportunities, giving you a head start in building your career within Europe.
EU Mobility
As a Spanish student, you can travel easily throughout the Schengen Area, which includes 27 European countries. This allows you to explore Europe and experience diverse cultures while studying in Spain.
Requirements for Student Visa in Spain
- Valid passport and completed application forms
- Invitation from an accredited educational institution
- Studies must be over 90 days
- Medical certificate for applicant
- Clean criminal background certificate
- Proof of financial means to support yourself during your time in Spain
- Proof of health insurance
- Age between 18 and 30 years old
*Depending on the place of application, nationality, and number of applicants, the detailed requirements may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main financial requirements for obtaining the Spanish Student Visa?
Upon applying to the Spanish Student visa, you must show proof of funds equivalent to 100% of Spain’s Public Multiple Effects Income Indicator (IPREM) per month of your stay. As of 2024, this amount is approximately €600–€700 per month, or €7,200 annually.
Can I bring family members with me on the Spanish Student Visa?
Due to stricter rules for students of Spanish Language Schools, as of May 2025, you will no longer be able to bring extra family members with you on your student visa if you are applying to a language school. Nonetheless, if you are registered in an official degree at a university in Spain, this option will remain available to you.
Where and when can I apply for the Spanish Student Visa?
You have two options to apply! You can either apply to the student visa from your home country at your closest Spanish consulate or apply from within Spain having entered on a tourist visa. If you apply from your home country, you cannot apply earlier than 30 days prior to the planned date of travel. If you apply from within Spain, you must apply at least two months before their legal status expires.
How long does it take to process a Spanish Student Visa application?
The processing of a student visa tends to be longer than for other visas. The consulate (if applying from your home country) or Extranjería (if applying from within Spain) can take up to 4 months to approve this type of visa. However, don’t worry! You will still be able to start your program even if your visa has not been approved yet, under the conditions that you have a promising application with a certified Spanish university, the proper financial means and the confirmation document showing that your application is in progress.
If my Spanish Student Visa application is denied, can innolegals assist me?
Yes! Our immigration attorneys can assist with appeals, resubmissions and other legal actions. If you would like to learn more, please contact us.
Will I need insurance to meet the requirements for a Spanish Student Visa?
Of course! For nearly all Spanish Visas you will need to show proof of insurance upon applying. In this case, you must have private insurance from a provider authorized in Spain, offering comprehensive coverage with no co-payments or deductibles, for the entire duration of your stay. Short-term travel insurance will not be accepted.
Can I work in Spain with a Spanish Student Visa?
Yes! After recent changes, it was determined that students now will be able to work up to 30 hours as long as the work does not interfere with the student’s studies and as long as the employer provides a valid employment contract, ensuring that the work aligns with Spanish labor laws.
Do I need to pay taxes in Spain as a student on a Spanish Student Visa?
Yes. Residing in Spain for at least 183 days out of the year will make you a tax-paying resident, meaning that you will have to pay income tax on worldwide income. Our professionals can guide you through these tax obligations and any potential exemptions. Contact us if you are interested in learning more.