What Are the Legal Requirements for a Student Visa in Spain?
Are you thinking about studying in Spain and wondering what the legal requirements are for a student visa? You’re in the right place! If you’re a non-EU citizen and want to live and study in Spain, you’ll need a student visa. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you navigate the whole process step by step.
Admission to an Accredited Educational Institution
First things first: you need to be accepted into a university, business school, or any other accredited institution in Spain. Whether it’s a language course, a degree program, or a study exchange, you need proof of admission to start your visa process.
Sufficient Financial Resources
You also need to show that you’ve got enough money to support yourself while living in Spain. This can be through bank statements, scholarships, or a letter proving that someone will be financially supporting you. Basically, Spain wants to know that you can cover your rent, food, and return trip, and if any family members are joining you, their expenses too.
Health Insurance
Health insurance in Spain is super important. You’ll need to prove that you have comprehensive health coverage, either private or public, that covers you for the duration of your stay. No insurance? No visa.
No Criminal Record
Another big one: if you’re over 18, you’ll need to provide a clean criminal record certificate from every country you’ve lived in for the past five years. Spain takes safety seriously, so this is non-negotiable.
Medical Certificate
Spain also requires a medical certificate proving you don’t have any diseases that could be a threat to public health. You just need a quick check-up from your doctor.
How to Apply for a Student Visa from Outside Spain
If you’re still in your home country, here’s how to apply for your Spanish student visa:
- Submit Your Application: Go to the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country and submit your application. Make sure you have all your documents in order: your valid passport, admission letter, criminal record certificate, health insurance, proof of finances, and anything else required.At JTEXPAT, we’ll guide you through the process, making sure your paperwork is perfect and submitted on time!
- Processing Time: Visa processing can take anywhere from one to three months, so make sure you apply early. Don’t wait until the last minute!
- Arriving in Spain: Once your visa is approved, you’re good to go! After you arrive in Spain, you’ll have 30 days to apply for your Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE) if your stay is longer than six months.
How to Apply for a Student Visa from Spain
Already in Spain on a tourist visa or another temporary permit? You can still apply for a student visa directly from here!
- Who Can Apply: If you’re legally in Spain (like on a tourist visa), you can apply for your student visa without leaving the country.
- Submit Your Application: You’ll need to submit your application to the Immigration Office. The required documents are the same: admission letter, proof of funds, health insurance, etc.At JTEXPAT, we’ll handle the paperwork for you. We know all the ins and outs of the system and will make sure everything’s submitted correctly.
- Processing Time: Applications from within Spain are usually processed faster than those from abroad. Expect a decision within 15-30 days.
- Residence Permit (TIE): Once approved, don’t forget to get your Foreigner’s ID card (TIE) if you’ll be staying for more than six months!
Can You Work in Spain with a Student Visa?
Wondering if you can work while studying in Spain? The answer is YES, but there are a few things you need to know:
- Work Limitations: As a student, you can work part-time (up to 30 hours a week) as long as the job doesn’t interfere with your studies. Your education is the priority!
- Work Authorization: You’ll need a special work authorization for any job, and it must be requested by your employer. This is only valid as long as your student visa is.
- Internships: If your study program includes internships, you don’t need any additional authorization. Just make sure the internship is directly related to your studies.
Can Your Family Join You in Spain?
Yes, your family can come along! If you’re studying in Spain, your spouse, registered partner, and children under 18 (or older if they have a disability) can apply to stay with you.
- Family Visa: You can apply for your family’s visa at the same time as your student visa or later during your stay.
- Financial Support: You’ll need to show that you have enough money to support your family while you’re in Spain.
- Conditions: Your family’s stay will be tied to yours, so they can stay as long as your visa is valid. If they stay for more than six months, they’ll also need to apply for their TIE card.
- Work Restrictions: Keep in mind that family members cannot work in Spain while they are here on your student visa. Their stay is purely for accompanying you.
Why Choose JTEXPAT?
At JTEXPAT, we’ve got your back! Whether you’re applying from Spain or abroad, we’ll walk you through the entire visa process, making it simple, stress-free, and straightforward. We prepare and submit your documents, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Studying in Spain is a life-changing opportunity, so let’s make sure you start on the right foot. Hit us up or book an appointment for personalized help with your student visa!
