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Immigration & Residency in Spain – Main Guide

Student Visa Spain – Guide to Long-Term Study Visas

If you’ve been accepted into a Spanish educational institution, you may be eligible for a Student Visa (Visado de Estancia por Estudios). This visa allows you to live in Spain legally for study purposes — whether you’re attending university, a language school, or another officially recognised course. Our legal specialists at Platinum Legal Spain can guide you through the entire application process, from document preparation to registering your residency after arrival.

✅ Good to Know: Student visas allow part-time work up to 30 hours/week, as long as the work is compatible with your studies. Post-study visa modifications are possible for accredited university or vocational programmes, but no longer guaranteed for general language courses under the new 2025 regulations.

Visa Overview

Purpose:

Legal stay in Spain for full-time studies or authorised academic activity.

Duration:

Over 90 days. In many cases, consulates now issue the visa for the full duration of the academic programme, although some may still issue it for one year with annual renewal.

Where to Apply:

Spanish consulate in your country of residence before travelling to Spain.

Eligibility Requirements

  • ✅ Acceptance into a full-time, authorised educational programme in Spain
  • ✅ Proof of sufficient financial means (typically around €600/month, equal to 100% of IPREM)
  • ✅ Private health insurance with full coverage in Spain, no copayments and no waiting periods
  • ✅ Clean criminal record (last 5 years) — required for stays over 6 months
  • ✅ Medical certificate confirming good health — required for stays over 6 months

Key Documents Required

DocumentDetails
PassportValid for duration of stay, full copy required
Acceptance LetterOfficial enrolment from recognised Spanish institution
Proof of FundsBank statements showing monthly income or savings equivalent to ~€600/month (100% IPREM)
Private Health InsuranceFull coverage with no copayments, no waiting periods, valid throughout Spain
Medical CertificateRequired for stays over 6 months; confirming no serious contagious disease
Police ClearanceRequired for stays over 6 months; legalised and translated certificate from home country

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Course Enrolment

Secure a place on a recognised full-time programme or course in Spain.

2. Prepare Documents

Collect, translate, and legalise all necessary documents (police check, medical, funds, insurance).

3. Submit Visa Application

Apply at your nearest Spanish consulate. We help complete all forms and book your appointment.

4. Travel to Spain

Once approved, enter Spain with your student visa. You’ll have 30 days to finalise residency steps.

5. Apply for TIE Card

Attend your fingerprint appointment and collect your student residence card (TIE).

How Platinum Legal Spain Can Help

We guide students, language learners, and academic professionals through every step of the visa and registration process. Our team can:

  • ✔️ Review your enrolment and eligibility
  • ✔️ Help gather and legalise documents
  • ✔️ Complete consulate forms and appointment bookings
  • ✔️ Support your residency registration after arrival
  • ✔️ Help you plan post-study visa modifications for eligible accredited programmes

Start Your Student Visa Application Today

Whether you’re enrolling in university, language school, or another authorised course in Spain, we’ll handle your entire Student Visa process from start to finish – from reviewing your enrolment and financial documents to preparing your consulate application and helping you register your residency permit.

FAQs About the Student Visa for Spain

Yes, you can work up to 30 hours per week with prior authorisation. Your job must be compatible with your studies.

Yes. Student visas are typically granted for one academic year and must be renewed if your studies continue.

In some cases, yes. Family reunification may be possible, but you must prove higher income and longer course duration.

You may be able to modify your student permit into a work or self-employed visa. We help you explore all legal pathways.

Yes. You must show proof of private Spanish health insurance with no copayment to be granted a visa.

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❗ Legal Disclaimer

This page is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws, visa requirements, and administrative procedures in Spain are subject to change, and the specific requirements may vary depending on your nationality, personal circumstances, and the consulate or immigration office involved. While we strive to keep this information accurate and up to date, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration specialist or legal professional before making any decisions or submitting an application. Platinum Legal Spain accepts no liability for actions taken based on the information provided herein.