Spain Student Visa Guide

The student visa (visado de estudios) is for non-EU nationals enrolling in full-time studies at recognised Spanish educational institutions for stays exceeding 90 days.

• University degree or postgraduate programme students
• Language school students in intensive courses (typically 20+ hours/week at accredited centres)
• Vocational training and research programme participants
• Exchange students with formal acceptance from a Spanish institution

You must prove admission, financial means, and health coverage for the full study period.

• Formal acceptance letter or enrolment certificate from a recognised Spanish institution
• Financial means: typically 100% of IPREM monthly (~€720/month in 2026) or equivalent scholarship/funding proof — verify with consulate
• If supported by parents: notarised letter of financial support and sponsor's bank statements
• Comprehensive health insurance or proof of access to healthcare in Spain
• Accommodation proof: rental contract, university housing confirmation, or host letter
• Clean criminal record for stays over six months in some jurisdictions
• Medical certificate if required by consulate

Your educational institution provides key documents — request them early as academic calendars affect timing.

• Foreign documents usually require an apostille (or equivalent legalization) and a sworn translation into Spanish (traducción jurada).
• Most consulates expect documents issued within the last 3 months unless otherwise stated.
• Passport must typically be valid for at least 12 months with at least two blank pages.
• Valid passport and completed visa application form
• Original acceptance or enrolment letter from the institution
• Proof of tuition payment or scholarship award
• Bank statements showing sufficient funds for living expenses
• Health insurance policy covering the full study period in Spain
• Accommodation documentation
• Criminal record certificate if required (apostilled and translated)
• Parental authorisation for minor applicants

Apply at the Spanish consulate in your country of legal residence before travelling for studies over 90 days.

• Secure admission and obtain official acceptance letter from your institution
• Gather financial proof and health insurance
• Book cita previa at the Spanish consulate — processing often 4–8 weeks
• Receive student visa (Type D) — enter Spain and complete empadronamiento
• Apply for TIE (tarjeta de identidad de extranjero) within 30 days of arrival
• Renewals: extend authorisation each academic year with updated enrolment proof

Maintain full-time enrolment — dropping below required hours can jeopardise your permit.

• Empadronamiento: register your address at the local ayuntamiento within the first weeks.
• TIE card: book a cita previa for fingerprinting within 30 days of arrival or approval; submit EX-17 and pay form 790-012.
• Tax registration: file Form 030 with AEAT to register your fiscal address in Spain.
• Register with your institution's international office for residency support
• Healthcare: students under 26 may access SNS through regional student health programmes in some communities; otherwise maintain private insurance
• Work: student visa holders may work up to 30 hours/week with compatible work authorization — verify current rules
• Keep enrolment certificates for each renewal period