Spanish Study visa

One of the main concerns for students wishing to study in Spain is understanding the visa requirements. The following points summarize the updated process and documentation required as of 2025

Who Needs a Student Visa for Spain?

• EU, EEA (Norway, Liechtenstein, Iceland), and Switzerland students:
  • No visa required.
  • Must obtain a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) if staying longer than 90 days. They need to apply for NIE within the first 3 months of arrival. This registration is relevant to open a bank account, sign a rental contract, etc.
• Non-EU/EEA/Swiss students:
  • Must obtain a student visa before traveling.
  • For studies longer than 180 days: a Type D (long-term) student visa is required.
  • Must apply for a TIE (Tarjeta de Identificación de Extranjeros) within 30 days of arrival in Spain. TIE is valid for 1 year and is renewable.

Main Characteristics of the Spanish Student Visa

• Valid for studying degrees, Master’s, or PhD programs (initially up to 2 years, renewable).
• Allows students to work up to 30 hours per week alongside studies.

Visa Application Process (as of May 20, 2025)

• Applications must be made through the Spanish consulate in the country of residence (no longer possible after arrival in Spain).
• In the UAE: submit applications at the BLS UAE Visa Application Centre in Dubai (not Abu Dhabi).
• Apply at least 2 months before the start of studies.

Required Documents

1. Completed visa application form.
2. Recent photograph + valid passport (plus parents’ passports if a minor).
3. Acceptance letter from the Spanish university.
4. Proof of financial means (minimum €7,200/year) – bank statements or salary certificate of parents.
5. Health insurance valid in Spain.
6. Criminal record certificate (covering last 5 years of residence).
7. Medical certificate confirming no serious contagious diseases.
8. Proof of legal residence in the UAE consular district.
9. Parental authorization (if minor), notarized and naming responsible guardian in Spain.
10. Visa fee payment (approx. €80, varies by nationality).

After Application Submission

• Proof of receipt: BLS Dubai will issue a tracking code to follow the application status.
• Decision period: Normally 1 month, but may be extended if additional documents or interviews are required.

Visa Validity

• Stay ≤ 6 months: Visa covers the entire stay; no TIE required.
• Stay > 6 months: Visa issued for 90 days only; students must apply for a TIE within 30 days of arrival at the Foreign Nationals’ Office or local Police Station.