Student visa

Description

The stay authorization for studies allows foreign nationals to remain lawfully in Spain for more than 90 days in order to pursue full-time studies, take part in academic mobility programs, complete vocational training, undertake non-employment internships (prácticas no laborales) or carry out volunteer service. It is a temporary authorization tied to the length of the educational or training activity that justifies the stay.

Advantages

• Allows you to live lawfully in Spain for the duration of your studies, internship or volunteer service.
• You may work up to 30 hours per week, provided the work is compatible with your training.
• Your spouse or registered partner and your minor or dependent children may accompany you and reside lawfully for the same period.
• Makes it easier to move to a residence and work authorization once your studies are completed.
• Part of the study program can be completed online.

Who can apply? (including family members)

• Main applicant profile
• Foreign nationals who wish to pursue full-time studies at an authorized educational institution in Spain, take part in an official student mobility program, or undertake non-employment internships, vocational training or volunteer work.
• Who must be the main applicant
• The person who will personally carry out the educational, training or volunteer activity.
• Family members who may join the same application
• The main applicant may be accompanied by a spouse or registered partner, and by minor children or adult children with disabilities who are objectively unable to provide for their own needs because of their health.

Requirements

• Have been admitted to a recognized school or organization for studies, training or volunteering.
• Have sufficient financial means for the entire stay.
• Hold public or private health insurance with full coverage in Spain.
• Not be in an irregular immigration situation or subject to an entry ban for Spain.
• For the visa: apply from the country of origin or of legal residence.
• For the authorization: it may be requested from within Spain if the applicant is there lawfully.

Required documents

Application process

1. 1

   Gathering the documents

   The applicant must collect all required documents and meet the established requirements.

2. 2

   Filing the application

   The application must be filed in person at the Spanish diplomatic mission or consular office in the country of residence. If the applicant is already lawfully in Spain, it can be filed directly with the competent Oficina de Extranjería (immigration office).

3. 3

   Decision and visa issuance

   The competent authority decides on the application within up to 3 months. If it is approved, the corresponding visa or authorization is issued.

4. 4

   Entry into Spain and final steps

   The applicant must enter Spain while the visa is valid and apply for the Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE, foreigner identity card) within one month of entry.

Duration and renewal

• The initial authorization is valid for the planned academic, training or volunteer period, up to a maximum of one year.
• It can be renewed annually as long as the conditions continue to be met.
• Once the studies are completed, the holder can apply for a residence and work authorization directly from Spain.

FAQ

Applicable law

1. Ley Orgánica 4/2000, sobre derechos y libertades de los extranjeros en España y su integración social
2. Real Decreto 557/2011, por el que se aprueba el Reglamento de Extranjería
3. Real Decreto 1155/2024, por el que se modifica el Reglamento de Extranjería (en vigor desde mayo de 2025)