At Intellete, we understand the excitement and challenges that come with the journey of studying abroad. Our team is made up of former international students who have navigated the complex path to studying in Europe. We know firsthand how daunting the visa application process can be and how overwhelming the list of required documents may seem. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you through every step of obtaining your Spanish student visa, ensuring you feel supported and well-prepared for this exciting new chapter.
Step 1: Determine If You Need a Visa
If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), you do not need a student visa to study in Spain. However, you will need to register at the Ayuntamiento (town hall) upon arrival, obtain your Empadronamiento (registration certificate), and then get your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number). If you are from a non-EU/EEA country, you will need to apply for a student visa.
Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Visa
There are two main types of student visas for Spain:
Short-term Student Visa (Type C): For courses or studies lasting less than 90 days.
Long-term Student Visa (Type D): For courses or studies lasting more than 90 days.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Here is a list of documents you will need to apply for a long-term Spanish student visa:
Completed Visa Application Form: You can download this from the Spanish consulate's website or click here to download it directly.
Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Spain.
Passport-sized Photos: Usually two, meeting the consulate's specifications.
Letter of Acceptance: From the Spanish educational institution you will be attending.
Proof of Financial Means: You need to provide evidence that you or your financial sponsor (like a parent or guardian) has enough funds to cover your living expenses in Spain. This includes the costs of your stay and, if applicable, the stay of any family members coming with you. Here's a simplified breakdown of what you need:some text
Living Expenses: You must show that you have at least €600 per month to cover your living costs. If you have family members coming with you, add €450 per month for the first family member and €300 per month for each additional family member.
Accommodation Costs: If you can prove that you have already paid for your accommodation for the entire stay, this amount can be deducted from the total required funds.
You can provide this proof in several ways:some text
Bank Statements: Show the last three months of bank statements from your personal account or your sponsor's account, with enough funds to cover the required amount.
Financial Aid or Scholarship Letters: If you have a scholarship or financial aid, provide a letter stating that it will cover your living expenses.
University or Program Statement: A letter from your university or study program stating they will cover your room and board expenses.
If you are using a financial sponsor, include a notarized letter from them stating they will support you financially during your stay, along with a copy of their ID and their bank statements. You can find a template for a financial responsibility letter by clicking here.
You need to have health insurance that provides full coverage in Spain during your entire stay. Here are the key points to ensure your health insurance meets the requirements:
Coverage: The insurance must cover all risks insured by Spain's public health system, including medical, hospital, and outpatient care.
No Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not acceptable. You need a proper health insurance policy.
No Copays or Deductibles: The policy must cover 100% of costs with no copays, deductibles, or qualifying periods.
Minimum Coverage Amount: Foreign companies offering limited coverage must meet a minimum general coverage of at least $500,000 USD with no deductibles or copays. The policy must expressly state that it covers you in Spain.
Duration: The insurance must cover you for at least the first year of your stay. For example, if you plan to arrive on the 25th of August, you should buy insurance that starts on the 1st of August to ensure your visa start date aligns with your coverage.
We have partnered with Innosurance, a company that provides health insurance plans that meet the requirements of all Spanish consulates. You can purchase your insurance through this link, and receive your policy via email within a couple of days.
Medical Certificate: Stating that you are free from any diseases that could endanger public health. This is only required for students who will be staying in Spain for over 180 days (long-term student visa, Type D). You can find the template to show your doctor or medical center by clicking here.
Criminal Background Check: Issued by the relevant authorities in your home country, apostilled, and translated into Spanish. This is only required for students who will be staying in Spain for over 180 days (long-term student visa, Type D). If your country is part of the Hague Convention, you can obtain an apostille from the designated authority in your country (often the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a similar body). If your country is not part of the Hague Convention, then your document must first be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your country and then by the Spanish embassy in your country prior to submission.
Proof of Accommodation: Only certain consulates require this, and most do not. If needed, a hotel or Airbnb booking for 10-14 days is sufficient. If you'll be staying in a student residence, the student residence's booking can be used as proof of accommodation.
Visa Fee Payment: Proof of payment of the visa application fee.
Note: Requirements can differ from consulate to consulate. Make sure to check your consulate's website or the website of BLS for specific requirements. The documents listed above are required by most consulates, but certain consulates might require additional documents and/or certain documents to be notarized.
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment
Contact the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country to schedule an appointment for submitting your visa application. Most of the time, you will need to submit your documents in person at the consulate. However, in some cases, you may be allowed to send the documents by mail. In certain countries, visa processing is handled through BLS International, so you will need to book your appointment through BLS.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
On the day of your appointment, bring all the required documents and any additional paperwork specified by the consulate. Be prepared for a brief interview where you may be asked about your study plans and accommodation arrangements in Spain.
Step 6: Wait for Processing
The processing time for a Spanish student visa can vary, but it typically takes between one and three months. It is crucial to apply well in advance of your planned departure date to avoid any delays.
Step 7: Receive Your Visa
Once your visa is approved, you will be notified to pick it up from the consulate. Make sure to check the visa for accuracy and report any errors immediately.
Step 8: Register Upon Arrival
If you are planning to stay in Spain for more than six months, your visa will initially be issued for three months. During this time, you must obtain your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) by visiting the local Foreigner's Office (Oficina de Extranjeros). It is essential to book an appointment before your visa expires.
Special Considerations for Minors
If you are a minor and will be under 18 years old at the time of arriving in Spain, additional documents are required:
Notarized Parental Consent Letter: A letter from your parents stating that they are okay with you traveling alone. This letter must be notarized.
Guardian in Spain: You will need a guardian in Spain who will be responsible for you until you turn 18. The guardian must provide a notarized letter from Spain stating that they are willing to be your guardian.
If you are in a situation like this and need a guardian, please contact us here for assistance.
