TL;DR:
If you’re planning to pursue higher education or post-secondary studies in Spain for more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a long-term stay authorization. This blog post outlines the process, eligibility, and required documents to help you navigate the application with confidence.
What Is This Authorization?
This is a special permit that allows non-EU nationals to remain in Spain for more than 90 days to:
- Attend official university degrees or private degrees (in-person or hybrid).
- Enroll in higher vocational training, arts, design, or sports programs.
- Complete post-secondary compulsory education (high school level), with at least 50% in-person classes.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible if:
- You’re not a citizen of the EU/EEA/Switzerland.
- You’re not unlawfully present in Spain.
- You have no criminal record in the past five years.
- You’ve been admitted to a recognized Spanish institution.
- You can prove sufficient financial means.
- You have valid health insurance.
- You’re in good health (confirmed by a medical certificate).
- You’re at least 17 years old for higher education or 18+ for post-secondary studies.
Required Documents
Submit copies and present originals of:
- Valid passport (min. one-year validity).
- Acceptance letter from a Spanish institution.
- Proof of tuition payment or enrollment fees.
- Financial proof:
- 100% IPREM (~€600/month) for yourself.
- 75% for first dependent, 50% for others.
- Health insurance covering Spain.
- Medical certificate (no contagious diseases).
- Criminal background check (for stays over 6 months).
- Parental authorization (if applicable).
- Visa application fee payment.
Note: Foreign documents must be translated into Spanish and legalized or apostilled.
Where and How to Apply
From Outside Spain:
- Apply in person at the Spanish Consulate in your country.
- Submit at least 2 months before your studies begin.
- Visa resolution: 1 month.
- Collect your visa within 2 months of approval.
From Within Spain:
- Must be legally present in Spain.
- Apply at the Foreigners Office or online via Mercurio.
- Submit at least 2 months before your current legal stay ends.
- Resolution time: 2 months.
After Arrival in Spain
If staying over 6 months:
- Apply for your Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within 1 month of arrival.
- Book an appointment at your local police station.
Work Authorization
As a student, you may:
- Work up to 30 hours/week (must be compatible with your studies).
- Participate in curricular internships — no extra permit needed.
- Engage in paid or unpaid internships as part of your program.
Bringing Family Members
Higher education students may bring:
- Spouses or registered partners.
- Children (minors or adult dependents with disabilities).
- Personal assistants (if required for disability).
Family members must:
- Apply for a visa or long-term stay.
- Show proof of relationship and resources.
- Cannot work during their stay.
Renewing Your Authorization
- You can renew up to twice, each matching the academic year.
- Apply 2 months before or up to 3 months after expiry.
- Submit updated:
- Admission documents
- Financial proof
- Insurance
- Passport
- Proof of tuition/enrollment
- Renewal is electronic only.
- After approval, request a new TIE within one month.
Final Tips
- Start early to meet deadlines.
- Ensure documents are translated and legalized.
- Always check official sites for updated forms and fees.
Studying in Spain can be a transformative experience. With the right planning and preparation, the visa process can be smooth and successful. ¡Buena suerte!
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