Student visa to Spain 

Spain is part of the Schengen Zone, which unites 27 European countries and allows citizens and residents of these countries to move freely within the zone without needing additional visas. A common question among foreign students studying in Spain is whether they can use their Spanish student visa to travel to other Schengen countries.

Legal Basis

The legal framework for traveling within the Schengen Zone is governed by the Schengen Agreement of 1985 and the EU Visa Code (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009), which outlines the rules for entry, stay, and movement within the Schengen Area.

Rights and Obligations of Spanish Student Visa Holders

1. Freedom of Movement:
   • A Spanish student visa, also known as a D visa (for long-term stay), grants its holder the right to freely travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This means students can visit other Schengen countries such as France, Germany, Italy, and others without needing additional visas, as long as they adhere to the time limitations.
2. Restrictions:
   • While the Spanish student visa allows travel within the Schengen Zone, it does not grant the right to live or study long-term in other Schengen countries. For such purposes, the student must obtain the relevant visa or permit for the respective country.
   • The maximum allowable stay in other Schengen countries on a Spanish student visa cannot exceed 90 days within any 180-day period. Violating this rule may result in penalties, including fines, a ban from entering Schengen countries, or visa cancellation.
3. Regulatory Restrictions:
   • When traveling to other Schengen countries, students must comply with all local laws regarding temporary stay and cannot engage in activities contrary to the purpose of the student visa (such as working without a permit).

Traveling in the Schengen Zone

Traveling within the Schengen Zone with a Spanish student visa does not require additional visas. However, students should carry the following documents:

• A valid passport with an active visa.
• Documents proving the purpose of the trip, such as tickets, hotel reservations, or proof of participation in an educational or cultural program.
• Medical insurance that covers the stay in other Schengen countries.

Using a Spanish student visa to travel to other Schengen countries is lawful and legitimate, provided all rules are followed. The visa holder can travel within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, but this does not grant the right to reside or study in other Schengen countries. It’s important to comply with all legal requirements to avoid legal consequences and maintain the status of a Spanish resident.

One of the key requirements for obtaining a student visa to Spain is proving the financial solvency of the applicant. This mandatory step ensures that foreign students have sufficient funds to cover their living and educational expenses in Spain for the duration of their studies. In this article, we’ll explore the legal aspects of this requirement and the specific amounts needed in your bank account to successfully secure a student visa.

Legal Basis

The requirement for foreign students to demonstrate sufficient financial resources is regulated by Spain's Organic Law 4/2000 of January 11 on the rights and freedoms of foreigners in Spain and their social integration, as well as by Regulation (EC) No 810/2009, also known as the EU Visa Code. These laws require visa applicants to provide proof of sufficient funds for their stay in the country.

Minimum Financial Requirements

1. Minimum Funds in the Bank Account:
   • Spanish law stipulates that student visa applicants must provide proof of funds equivalent to 100% of the IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiples) for each month of intended stay.
   • In 2024, the IPREM is set at €600, so the applicant must show they have at least €600 per month for each family member. For a full year, this amounts to €7,200 for one applicant.
2. Proof of Financial Solvency:
   • The applicant must provide a bank statement showing the necessary funds in their account. It is recommended that the funds have been in the account for at least 3-6 months prior to the application.
   • In addition to a bank statement, other documents such as a scholarship certificate or sponsorship letters can be used to confirm the source of funds.
3. Additional Expenses:
   • Besides the basic living funds, the applicant should account for tuition fees, health insurance, and possible housing costs. These amounts are not included in the minimum financial requirement but should be verified with separate financial documentation.

Sources of Financial Support

Spanish consulates accept several sources of financial support:

• Personal Bank Account: The funds in the applicant's personal bank account must be liquid and readily accessible.
• Sponsorship: If studies are funded by parents or other sponsors, a sponsorship letter confirming financial support and the sponsor's bank documents must be provided.
• Scholarships: If the student receives a scholarship from an institution, foundation, or organization, this can serve as proof of financial resources. In this case, confirmation from the respective organization must be included.

Review Process for Visa Applications

Spanish consulates carefully examine the provided financial documents to ensure the applicant has enough resources to cover their expenses for the entire study period. It is important to note that demonstrating financial sufficiency is one of the key factors in determining the approval of the visa.

Conclusion

To obtain a student visa for Spain, applicants must provide proof of financial solvency, confirming they have at least €600 per month of stay. These funds must cover living and food expenses, as well as additional costs for health insurance and tuition. Strict compliance with these financial requirements is essential for successfully obtaining a visa and ensuring legal residency in Spain.

Holding a student visa in Spain allows foreign nationals to pursue education in the country for a period longer than 90 days. However, many students wonder whether they can work while studying in Spain. The issue of employment with a student visa is regulated by both national and European legislation, and understanding these rules is crucial for complying with legal requirements.

Legal Framework

The legal regulation of working with a student visa in Spain is based on Organic Law 4/2000 of January 11 on the rights and freedoms of foreigners in Spain and their social integration, as well as Royal Decree 557/2011 of April 20, which governs the conditions for the stay and work of foreigners in Spain. According to these laws, foreign students are allowed to work under certain conditions after obtaining the necessary work permit.

Conditions for Working with a Student Visa

1. Part-Time Employment:
   • Foreign students in Spain are allowed to work on a student visa as long as the employment is part-time and does not exceed 20 hours per week. This restriction is in place to ensure that students focus primarily on their studies.
   • The employer must be willing to provide an employment contract and the necessary documentation that confirms compliance with this limit.
2. Work Must Not Interfere with Studies:
   • A condition for obtaining a work permit is the guarantee that employment will not interfere with the student's educational activities. Students must maintain their academic status and fulfill their study obligations.
3. Work Permit:
   • To work in Spain, the student must obtain a specific work permit (autorización de trabajo). This permit is issued by the Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería) based on an application submitted by both the student and the employer.
   • The employer must provide an employment contract, and the student must provide documentation confirming that the job will not interfere with their studies.
4. Full-Time Work During Holidays:
   • During academic holidays, students are allowed to work full-time (more than 20 hours per week). This rule applies during summer and winter breaks, allowing students to focus on work temporarily.

Procedure for Obtaining a Work Permit

1. Submitting the Application:
   • The work permit application is submitted to the local Immigration Office where the student resides or through the electronic government system. The application must specify the employment conditions, such as the number of working hours, and must include the employment contract from the employer.
2. Processing Time:
   • The work permit application is usually processed within one month. Once approved, the student can officially start working.
3. Permit Duration:
   • The work permit is issued for the duration of the employment contract but cannot exceed the validity of the student visa. If the student extends their studies and student visa, the work permit can also be extended with new documentation from the employer.

Restrictions and Key Considerations

• Work and Study: The main restriction is that work activities must not hinder the student’s success in their studies. Failure to comply with this condition may result in difficulties when renewing the visa or work permit.
• Working Without a Permit: Working without the proper work authorization is strictly prohibited. This can lead to the revocation of the student visa and deportation.
• Work Outside the Educational Institution: Students can work both within university programs (such as research or internships) and outside the institution, provided they comply with the aforementioned regulations.

Conclusion

Working in Spain with a student visa is possible if you adhere to certain legal conditions and procedures. Foreign students can work part-time for up to 20 hours a week after obtaining a work permit from the appropriate authorities, and they can work full-time during academic breaks. Meeting all legal requirements ensures the legality of the student's stay and employment in Spain, supporting successful integration into the country's life and helping cover living and educational expenses.

For many international students studying in Spain, the question of how to remain in the country after completing their academic programs arises. Spanish legislation offers various options for students wishing to extend their stay, whether for job searching, starting a professional career, or pursuing further education. This article explores the legal aspects and requirements for foreign students who want to stay in Spain after their studies.

Legal Framework

The stay of foreign nationals in Spain is governed by Organic Law 4/2000 of January 11 on the rights and freedoms of foreigners in Spain and their social integration, along with Royal Decree 557/2011, which establishes the procedures for entry, residence, and work for foreigners in the country. These laws regulate both the acquisition of student visas and the transition from student status to other forms of legal residency.

Options for Continuing Stay After Graduation

1. Job Search or Business Start-Up Permit (Autorización de residencia para la búsqueda de empleo o para emprender un proyecto empresarial):
   • International students who have completed their academic programs can apply for a temporary residence permit in Spain for the purpose of job searching or starting their own business. This permit allows them to remain in the country for up to 12 months after graduation.
   • Requirements for the Permit:
     • A diploma or certificate from an officially accredited academic program corresponding to a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level.
     • Proof of sufficient financial means for living in Spain for the entire duration of the permit.
     • Health insurance covering the entire stay.
2. Work Permit (Autorización de residencia y trabajo):
   • International students can also apply to change their status from student to worker if they manage to secure employment in Spain. In this case, students must sign an employment contract with an employer and apply for a work permit.
   • Conditions for Obtaining the Permit:
     • An employment contract with a Spanish company.
     • Confirmation of program completion.
     • Qualifications matching the job requirements.
3. Continuation of Studies:
   • Students wishing to continue their education (e.g., enrolling in a master's or doctoral program) can apply to extend their student visa. To do this, they must be enrolled in an accredited educational institution in Spain and provide all necessary financial and educational documents.

Application Procedure for Changing Status

1. Application Submission:
   • The application for changing status (e.g., for job search or work permit) must be submitted to the local Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería) at least 60 days before the expiration of the student visa.
2. Documents Required for Submission:
   • Passport and valid visa.
   • Certificate of completion from the educational institution.
   • Proof of financial means (for job search permit).
   • Employment contract (for work permit).
   • Health insurance valid for the entire expected stay.
3. Application Review:
   • Applications are typically reviewed within 1-3 months. During this time, the student continues to legally reside in Spain while awaiting the immigration authorities' decision.

Rights and Responsibilities After Status Change

Foreign nationals who receive a job search permit can look for employment or start their business without losing their legal status in Spain. However, they must comply with all requirements set by Spanish law, including tax payments, obtaining permits for entrepreneurial activities, and registering in the social security system. Upon receiving a work permit, the foreigner is granted the right to work in Spain but must also adhere to labor laws, including hiring regulations, wage payments, and working conditions.

International students have several options for extending their stay in Spain after completing their studies. Transitioning from a student visa to another status requires meeting various legal requirements, but it is achievable with proper procedures and documentation. Spanish legislation offers students genuine opportunities to seek employment, start their own businesses, or continue their education, making the country an attractive destination for international students aiming to build their future in Spain.