Study Visa in Spain: what you need, step by step

Articles · Visa guides

Studying in Spain was my own first step into this country, so the Study Visa is close to my heart. It is also the most accessible way to move here. But since Spain's new immigration regulation came into force on 20 May 2025, a few rules have changed, and old checklists online can lead you astray.

Here is what you need to know, in plain words.

Who the Study Visa is for

It is for non-EU citizens coming to Spain for more than 90 days to study full time at an authorised school or university. That includes bachelor's and master's degrees, doctorates, higher vocational training, and some other recognised programmes. Stays of 90 days or less don't need a Study Visa.

Timing: start early

You should apply at least two months before your course begins. If your school's admission or enrolment process makes that impossible, for example if you came off a waiting list or your scholarship arrived late, you can apply later, but you'll need proof from the school.

The two-month rule is the one that catches people out. Plan your application around your start date, not your flight.

The documents you'll usually need

1. National visa application form, filled in and signed, plus a recent passport photo.
2. Passport valid for at least one year.
3. Letter of admission to a full-time programme. For higher education, it should state the total length of the studies.
4. Proof that your enrolment fee is paid. This is new under the 2025 rules.
5. Proof of funds of 100% of the IPREM for each month of your stay, around €600 a month. If your accommodation is already paid for, that amount can be deducted. Bank statements, a scholarship or a notarised sponsorship letter from your parents can all work.
6. Health insurance from an insurer authorised in Spain, with coverage like the Spanish public system, valid for your whole stay.
7. Medical certificate confirming you don't have a disease with serious public health consequences.
8. Police clearance if your stay is longer than six months. For Filipinos, that's your NBI clearance.

Foreign documents generally need an apostille and an official sworn translation into Spanish. Each consulate publishes its own checklist, so always check the one for your country.

Already in Spain?

If you are legally in Spain and starting higher education, you may be able to apply from Spain instead of from your home country. The application must go in at least two months before your current legal stay ends.

Once you arrive

• If your stay is longer than six months, apply for your TIE, your foreigner identity card, in person within one month.
• You can work up to 30 hours a week, as long as it fits around your studies.
• Your spouse and children can apply to join you while you study.
• Your permission lasts for the length of your course and can be renewed if you keep meeting the requirements.

After you graduate

You don't have to leave. You can apply for a Jobseeker Visa to stay for up to 12 months while you look for work or set up a business, or move straight onto a work permit if you have a job offer.

How I can help

I can review your documents, help you plan the timing, and handle the pieces that slow people down: Spanish Sworn Translation, Health Insurance with Visa-Compliant Providers, NBI Processing in the Philippines (All Inclusive), and TIE Appointment Processing.

This article is general information, not legal advice, and requirements can differ between consulates. Based on Royal Decree 1155/2024 and official guidance from Spain's Ministry of Inclusion and its consulates, checked October 2026.