Student Visa Guide: How to Apply & Requirements

What is a student visa?

A Student Visa is a residence authorisation granted to citizens who aren’t from the EU wishing to stay in Spain for more than 90 days to undertake or continue studies at an authorised educational institution. The visa is valid for the duration of the academic program, allowing students to reside in Spain legally while pursuing their education.

Who needs a student visa?

Non-European Union citizens wishing to study in Spain for more than 90 days will need a Student Visa. In addition, immediate family members, such as spouses and minor children, can apply for an accompanying person visa.

Benefits of having a student visa

Holding a Student Visa provides several advantages:

Legal residence in Spain for the duration of your studies

Access to high-quality, internationally recognised education

Full cultural immersion to develop global skills

The ability to work under certain conditions

Possibility to transition to other types of residency after your studies

Student visa requirements

The first step is to secure an acceptance or enrolment letter from a recognised Spanish educational institution. After that, gather the required documentation (outlined below) and submit your application at the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.

General eligibility criteria

Although requirements may vary slightly by country, general eligibility criteria include:

• A passport valid for the entire intended stay
• Letter of acceptance from the institution
• Completed and signed application form
• Proof of language proficiency (if required by the program)
• Criminal record certificate
• Proof of accommodation in Spain

Financial proof and sponsorship 

During the Student visa application process, you must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover tuition, living expenses, and accommodation. The minimum required is 100% of the IPREM (€600/month), which equals approximately €7,200 per academic year. If family members accompany you, you’ll need to add 75% for the first and 50% for each additional dependent.

Acceptable proof includes:

• Recent bank statements
• Sponsorship letter from family or employer
• Documentation of official scholarships

Navigating visa requirements can be complex; that’s why at Tejada Solicitors, we support you at every stage to guarantee your application is precise and successful.

Health insurance and medical requirements 

To apply for the Student Visa, you must have either public or private health insurance with no co-payments or deductibles, offering full coverage within Spain’s healthcare system. In some cases, a medical certificate may also be required.

Step-by-step student visa application process

Choosing the right type of student visa

Student Visas are categorised based on the course length:

• Short-term visa (up to 90 days): For intensive courses or short programs
• Long-term visa (more than 90 days): For bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees
• Other modalities: For au pairs, language assistants, and training internships

Preparing required documents

This is the documentation you will typically need to submit:

Completed visa application form

Valid passport

Letter of acceptance

Health insurance documentation

Proof of financial means

Medical certificate and criminal record

Recent passport-sized photographs

How to apply online or at an embassy

Applications should be submitted at the Spanish Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. Some jurisdictions offer online submissions, so we recommend checking local requirements to confirm what’s available in your area.

Interview process and common questions

You may be required to attend an interview where you’ll explain your reasons for studying in Spain and your future plans. Be prepared to answer questions about:

• Your academic program
• How you’ll fund your stay
• Your ties to your home country

Costs and processing time for a student visa

Typical costs involved in applying for a Student Visa include:

• Consular fee: €60–€80, depending on your country
• Medical insurance: Starting from €300 per year
• Financial solvency: At least €7,200 for the academic year

How long does it take to get a student visa?

Visa processing times vary and may range from 15 to 60 days, influenced by application volume, the embassy, and the time of year. Submit your application at least 90 days before your course starts to avoid delays.

Common reasons for student visa rejection & how to avoid them

There are several mistakes that can be made while applying for a Student Visa. Understanding and avoiding them can significantly improve your chances of approval:

• Incomplete or incorrect documents
• Insufficient financial proof
• Unclear academic motivation
• Lack of demonstrated ties to your home country

Renewing or extending your student visa

Maintaining your legal status is essential to ensure a smooth stay in Spain. In addition, once your studies are complete, several residency options are available, including:

• Digital Nomad Visa: It’s the ideal option for those who wish to work remotely from Spain for foreign companies. You will be allowed to reside in the country while carrying out international professional activities.
• Highly Qualified Worker Visa: For graduates hired by companies for specialised or high-responsibility roles in Spain. With this visa, you’ll have immediate access to the Spanish work market under favourable conditions.

When to apply for an extension

It is advisable to begin your extension application at least 60 days before the expiry date of your current visa. Submitting your application early not only provides greater peace of mind but also minimises the risk of disruptions to your legal stay or studies.

Required documents for renewal

The renewal process requires submitting several key documents:

• Valid passport
• Proof of enrolment
• Proof of financial resources
• Medical insurance
• Certificate of academic achievement
• Administrative fee

It’s essential to confirm the exact requirements with the appropriate immigration office, as they can differ slightly based on the Autonomous Community where the studies are conducted.

Contact us for student visa assistance

At Tejada Solicitors, we offer a comprehensive 360º advisory service tailored to international students. Our multidisciplinary team—including solicitors, immigration lawyers, tax advisors specialised in international taxation, and architects—works together to assess your case from every angle.