Visa Overview
Spain offers two types of student visas: short-term and long-term. Short-term visas are for courses lasting up to 6 months and do not require a residence permit. Long-term visas are for degree programs or studies exceeding 6 months; you must apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within 1 months of arrival. Under the new regulations effective in 2025, insurance must be comprehensive, with no deductibles or waiting periods.
Process
Admitted
Receive an official admission letter from a Spanish university
Prepare Materials
Prepare your passport, admission letter, academic transcripts, financial documents, and other required materials, and complete their notarized translations.
Buy Insurance
Purchase health insurance covering all of Spain with coverage ≥€30,000, no deductible, and no waiting period.
Submit visa
Submit your visa application to the Spanish Embassy in China 60–90 days before the course begins.
Claim Visa
Collect passport and student visa after approval
Entering Spain
Enter with a visa; you may arrive up to 1 months in advance.
Apply for Residence Permit
Apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) at your local police station within 1 months of entry.
Application Document Checklist
- 1Valid passport (valid for at least 1 years) and a copy
- 2EX-00 Visa Application Form (National Visa)
- 32 recent passport photos
- 4Original School Admission Letter
- 5Diploma (Notarized + Official Spanish Translation)
- 6Proof of Financial Means (Bank Statement, recommended ≥€6,000/year)
- 7Health Insurance (Nationwide coverage in Spain, minimum benefit of €30,000, no deductible or waiting period)
- 8Certificate of No Criminal Record (Notarized + Translated)
- 9Medical Certificate (Notarized & Translated)
- 10Visa Fee Payment Receipt (€90)
Processing Time and Fees
Processing Time
Visa Fees
Important Notice
- 2025 New Policy: Insurance must be full coverage (no copays or waiting periods), with no deductibles or exclusions.
- Passport must be valid for at least 1 years to apply for a visa.
- Minimum proof of funds is approximately €6,000/year. Providing a higher amount is recommended to strengthen your application.
- All Chinese documents must be notarized and accompanied by an official Spanish translation.
- You must apply for your residence card (TIE) within 1 months of arrival. Late applications may result in fines.
- Work up to 30 hours per week during your studies (must be compatible with study schedule)
- Graduates can apply for a 12-month post-study visa to seek employment or start a business.
Renewal Rules
Renew annually to align with the study duration. Upon graduation, you may apply for a 12-month job-seeking visa to find employment or start a business.
Top Reasons for Visa Rejections
- Passport expires in less than 1 years
- Missing original admission letter
- Academic credentials not notarized or lacking an official Spanish translation
- Insufficient proof of financial means (recommended: ≥€6,000/year)
- Health insurance does not meet requirements (has a deductible or waiting period)
- Missing or unauthenticated translation of the Certificate of No Criminal Record
- Missing or unauthenticated translation of the medical examination certificate
- Visa fee unpaid
- Did not apply for the residence card (TIE) within 1 months of arrival.
FAQ
1What's the difference between short-term and long-term visas?
Short-term visas apply to courses lasting up to 6 months and do not require a residence permit. Long-term visas are for studies exceeding 6 months; you must apply for a residence card (TIE) within 1 months of arrival.
2Can international students work?
You may work up to 30 hours per week during your studies, provided it does not conflict with your academic schedule. After graduation, you can apply to convert your residence permit into a work permit.
3How long is the visa valid for?
Short-term visas are valid for up to 180 days; long-term visas are valid for 90 days. After entry, exchange your visa for a residence card, which is valid for the duration of your study program and must be renewed annually.
4How far in advance do I need to renew?
Residence permits must be renewed annually. We recommend starting to prepare your renewal documents 1–2 months before the expiration date.
5Can I stay in Spain after graduation?
After graduation, you can apply for a 12-month job-seeking visa to look for employment or start a business. Once employed, you may apply to convert your residence permit into a work residence permit.
Need help with your visa application?
Professional advisory team provides one-on-one visa guidance services.