Kingdom of Spain · study
Spanish Student Visa
Study visa for courses longer than 90 days at recognised Spanish institutions.
Last reviewed:
Overview
Non-EEA students accepted onto a recognised Spanish course lasting more than 90 days apply for a student residence visa (visado de estudios). Students can work part-time alongside studies and transition to a 1-year job-search residence after graduation. The 2022 Ley de Extranjería reforms materially liberalised the post-study path: graduates can apply for work authorisation without the previous 3-year employment prohibition, and half of study time can count toward the 5-year qualifying period for long-term residence. After arrival students must register at the police station for the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE) within 30 days.
Government fees
Variable by consulate, typically €60–90 visa fee plus TIE issuance of around €16.
Typical duration
Programme length; annual renewal.
Primary source
Ministerio — Study residence · Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security and Migrations
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Acceptance at a recognised Spanish educational, training or research institution on a course of more than 90 days.
Sufficient funds — linked to the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples), typically 100% of IPREM per month of study.
Comprehensive public or private health insurance with coverage equivalent to the Spanish national system.
Clean criminal record from each country of residence in the last 5 years.
Common blockers
Institution not on the qualifying list or course duration below 90 days.
Funds evidenced only as short-term deposits — consulates look for sustained balance.
Health-insurance policy excluding major categories of care or carrying a co-pay.
Typical evidence
Official acceptance letter on institution letterhead.
IPREM-compliant funds evidence (bank statements, scholarship letter, parental undertaking).
Health insurance certificate.
Criminal record with apostille.
Application pathway
Step 1
Secure acceptance
Enrol at a recognised Spanish institution.
Step 2
Apply at consulate
Apply within 3 months of course start at the Spanish consulate in your country of residence.
Step 3
Travel and TIE
Register at the local police station within 30 days of arrival to obtain the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE).
Step 4
Annual renewal
Renew the residence permit each academic year on continuing enrolment; graduation unlocks eligibility for the post-study residence for job search or entrepreneurship.
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Frequently asked questions
Does studying in Spain lead to residence?
Post-2022 reforms allow students to count half of their study time toward the 5-year qualifying period for long-term residence in some cases, and to apply for a 1-year job-search residence permit post-graduation. Students on the permit can work full-time alongside study, which was previously not permitted.
Can students work during their studies in Spain?
Yes. Under the 2022 Ley de Extranjería reforms, student residence holders may work full-time (up to 30 hours per week in practice) without requiring a separate work permit, provided it is compatible with studies and the employer reports the hire in the social security system.
What is the Spanish student visa job-search extension?
After completing a qualifying Spanish higher-education programme, graduates can apply in-country for a 1-year non-renewable residence for job search or to set up a business. Securing a work offer during that period routes into the Highly Qualified Professional permit or the EU Blue Card without returning to the consulate abroad.
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