How to get a student visa for Spain: requirements?

Spain is generally incredibly welcoming to foreigners and anyone trying to try something new within their borders. There are, however, general requirements needed in order to be able to achieve this. This goes for students who wish to spend an extended period of time in Spain in association with their studies. Students have many opportunities with the student visa but there are general requirements needed and information to keep in mind when applying. Spain can offer many incredible things and experiences to an incoming student, but they must be willing to commit and provide the necessary resources asked of them.

Types of visas in Spain

There are three main types of visas to consider when applying in Spain. They all fall under different requirements, and all depend on programs, schools, and duration of the stay for the student.

• Schengen visa

This is mainly for international students not within the EU/EEA for any period of longer than only 90 days. This is perfect for nearby countries to find an easier way to remain in Spain.

• Short-term visa

This one is only for up to 180 days and has a significantly easier application process.

• Long-term visa

This one is for a stay of over six months and qualifies any student for an undergraduate or graduate program in Spain.

Requirements for a Spanish visa

The first step in getting a Spanish visa is to be admitted into an academic program located in Spain. That way, one can serve the necessary requirements of the program itself as well as the general ones for a visa. Other factors, which may vary depending on the visa and program, may include:

• 2 application forms.
• A valid passport: It must not be expired.
• A valid ID card.
• 2 recent passport photographs.
• The letter of admission from the university.
• Proof of any type of health insurance, it could be from parents.
• Proof of sufficient funds or job.
• Current bank account statement.
• Other records proving financial stability.

Where and when to apply for a Spanish visa

The application process can be done online or in person. In person one must go to the Spanish embassy wherever they are located (or a Spanish delegate if in Spain), ensuring to have done this at least two or three months before the intended date of arrival to Spain. As for the best time to apply, that must be up to the individual as well as whatever program they intend to sign up for. Once the student has received a confirmation or admission letter, then it would be wise to check the date that the program begins and plan accordingly whenever that would be. Once again, two or three months before is optimal to not have any delays or fees.

Costs and expenses of a Spanish visa

The average student visa for Spain costs around 60 euros for most countries except the United States, which is around 132 euros (approximately $160). In addition to these types of fees, there are also the expenses to enter the country itself to consider. One should investigate potential updates on vaccinations as well as plane tickets. The sooner plane tickets are bought, the cheaper they generally tend to be.

Things to keep in mind

The processing time for the wait for a visa can be around one to three months, so take this into consideration when applying for both visas and academic programs in Spain. There are also multiple reasons one can get rejected. It is a sad note to get, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that studying abroad in Spain would be completely out of the question forever. Whether it’s a lack of financial support, insufficient documents, or whatever reason the Spanish embassy is not convinced, it is not the end of the world and there will always be multiple other opportunities to give it a try.

If you dream to study at ESIC, contact us and we will guide you through the whole process. We have personalized help for international students, get in touch!