Featuring many top-ranked colleges and universities, Spain is a highly regarded country with quality education. It is one of the four top destinations in Europe considered popular for foreign and international students.
Any non-EU national wishing to study in Spain must apply for an education visa after receiving the university's choice confirmation letter. However, navigating the entire application process can be challenging. Nonetheless, if you're looking for a Spain student visa, here's everything you need to know about Spain study visa requirements.
Types of student visa for Spain
Once you get your confirmation letter from a Spanish college or university, you can apply for one of two types of Spain education visa for non-EU students.
- Type C visa: Short-term visa valid for 90 - 180 days.
- Type D visa: Long-term visa valid for more than 180 days.
What is the eligibility criteria for Spain study visa?
Here are the eligibility criteria for Spain student visa application:
- Be accepted into a full-time programme at an accredited Spanish educational institution.
- Intend to pursue studies, research, training, internships or volunteer work.
- Provide evidence of sufficient financial means to cover tuition, living expenses and return travel.
- Have valid health insurance covering all risks in Spain.
When applying for a student visa in Spain, you may need to also provide the following:
- Proof of acceptance for study in a Spanish college or university
- Original copy of acceptance document for the specific training or volunteering activity or internship in the foreign country.
- Proof of your financial means in the foreign country
- Criminal record check certificate
How to apply for Spain student visa?
Here are some key steps to follow:
- Confirm your eligibility for the Spain student visa application.
- Have all the documents ready (valid passport, duly-filled visa application, recent passport photo, acceptance letter from a Spanish university, health insurance, medical certificate and proof of financial).
- Apply for the Spanish study visa online.
- Wait for the confirmation.
If you're in India, you can follow the procedure below to apply for a Spain student visa for Indians:
- Submit your application in person: Visit the designated Spanish consular office with all required documents.
- Pay the visa fee: Fees vary by nationality; confirm the amount on the official consulate website.
- Receive proof of submission: You’ll get a receipt with a tracking code to check your visa status online.
- Attend an interview (if called): Some applicants may be asked to appear for a personal interview.
- Wait for visa approval: Processing usually takes around two months after document submission.
- Collect your student visa: Once approved, you’ll be notified to collect the visa.
- Apply for a student residence card (TIE): Within 30 days of arrival in Spain, visit the Foreigners’ Office or National Police to get your TIE card, valid for one year and renewable annually.
Documents required for Spain student visa application
Below is a checklist of the required Spain study visa documents. You must present the following original documents plus their copies:
- Copies of visa application forms
- Passport-size coloured photographs
- Valid passport (Original and photocopies)
- Admission letter from an authorised Spanish educational institution
- Proof of school fee payment
- Proof of accommodation, including address
- Proof of funding (personal funding, family support, scholarship)
- Study plan description from your institution in Spain
- Copies of all your previous academic qualifications
- Proof of medical insurance valid for your entire stay
- Medical certificate- apostilled by the Ministry of External Affairs in India.
- Police clearance certificate
When to apply for a student study visa for Spain
Due to the extensive processes and to avoid last-minute rushes, it's essential to apply for student visa Spain early enough. Therefore, you can submit your visa application form together with the necessary documents at least 90 days before the anticipated date of travel.
Spain student visa processing time
The processing time for a visa typically ranges fromone to two months, but it can take up to six months if additional checks or an interview are required. Submitting complete and accurate documents can help speed up the decision.
What are the Spain study visa application fees?
The visa application fee is $160 for US citizens and $94 for other nationalities. The Spanish Embassy may often change the fee for various reasons. Check the cost on the embassy website before applying for the visa.
Role of travel insurance for Spain student visa
As you plan to travel to Spain for your studies, you need the most reliable international travel insurance. Having a good travel insurance policy gives you peace of mind as it offers financial protection from possible concerns like:
- Medical emergencies
- Emergency evacuations
- Lost luggage
- Flight delays or trip cancellations
FAQs
- Can I work in Spain once I have a student visa?
Yes, you can work up to 30 hours per week while studying in Spain. However, you must first find a sponsor and obtain authorization. After completing your studies, you can apply separately for a full-time work visa.
- Can I apply for a student visa when I'm already in Spain?
Yes, you can apply for student visa Spain, but only if you have at least 30 days of legal residence remaining.
- How long does it take to get a Spain student visa?
It can take some weeks to a few months to get a Spain student visa. Usually, the visa processing time varies for different countries.
Conclusion
Spain is famous for high-quality education, which explains the demand for Spain student visa application form among international students. Alongside its good climatic conditions and breathtaking sceneries, the country hosts some of the best universities favorable for international students. Therefore, individuals wishing to study there should confirm all the requirements for applying for a student visa before travelling.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.