Studying Spanish in Spain: Student Visas and Requirements

Spanish Lessons Valencia — The best Spanish school Valencia, Spain

Do you want to improve your Spanish language skills in an immersive environment? Then Spain is a great choice! Not only will you learn the language, but you’ll also experience Spanish culture and traditions firsthand. Studying abroad is an exciting adventure, and Spain is one of the most popular destinations for international students due to its high quality of life.

However, before heading to cities like Valencia, it’s essential to understand the visa requirements and legal procedures for studying in Spain.

Do I Need a Visa to Study Spanish in Spain?

This depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay:

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: No visa required, but you must register with the local authorities and obtain a residence certificate if your stay exceeds 90 days.
Non-EU citizens: If you plan to stay in Spain for more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a student visa (Visado de Estudios).

Types of Student Visas in Spain

Type C Student Visa (Short-Term)
- Valid for up to 90 days.
- Ideal for short courses, language programs, or summer schools.
Type D Student Visa (Long-Term)
- Required for stays over 90 days.
- Renewable each academic year.
- Allows you to apply for a residence card (TIE).

Requirements to Apply for a Spanish Student Visa

To apply, you’ll typically need:

Completed visa application form.
Valid passport (at least 1 year of validity).
Acceptance letter from a recognized Spanish institution.
Medical insurance and medical certificate (free of contagious diseases).
Proof of sufficient financial means (bank statements or scholarship).
Police clearance certificate.
Proof of accommodation (rental agreement, university housing, host family, etc.).
Visa application fee.
All documents translated into Spanish by an official translator.

Where and When to Apply

Apply at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country.
Start the process at least 2–3 months before your intended travel date.
Be prepared for additional documents or a personal interview.

Benefits of the Student Visa & Final Tips

You can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) during the academic year or full-time during holidays, with a work permit requested by your employer.
Make photocopies of all documents.
Visit the official website of your Spanish consulate for country-specific requirements.
Stay organized and be patient—bureaucratic processes may take time.