Application for a study stay in Spain

If you are interested in applying for a study stay in Spain, it is crucial to understand all the necessary requirements and procedures. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to ensure a successful application and a smooth stay in the country.

Regulations Applicable to the Application for a Study Stay

Council Directive 2004/114/EC of 13 December 2004 on the conditions of admission of third-country nationals for studies, exchanges, unremunerated training or voluntary service.
Organic Law 4/2000, of January 11, 2000, on the rights and freedoms of foreigners in Spain and their social integration.
Regulation of Organic Law 4/2000, approved by Royal Decree 557/2011, of April 20 (articles 37 to 42).

Types of Study Permits

The authorization of stay for studies in Spain allows residing in the country for more than ninety days to carry out or extend studies in an authorized center. This program must be full-time and lead to a degree or certificate.

Study Stay Application Requirements

Not be a citizen of the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland, or a family member of a citizen of these countries.
Not to be banned from entering Spain or to be listed as rejectable in countries with which Spain has agreements.
Have sufficient financial means to cover the costs of stay and return, and, if applicable, those of family members:
- For own support: 100% of the IPREM (579.02 euros in 2022). If the payment of housing for the entire period is accredited, only 50% of the IPREM is required.
- For family members: 75% of the IPREM (434.26 euros) for the first family member and 50% of the IPREM (289.51 euros) for each of the others. The payment of lodging can also be credited in advance.
- Relatives, sponsors or family members can endorse the residency. Contact immigration lawyers ☎ 649117806 or contact us for more information.
To have health insurance with an authorized insurance company in Spain.
For underage students who do not come with parents or guardians, authorization of these with proof of the educational center or responsible entity.
Be admitted to an authorized educational institution in Spain for a full-time program leading to a degree or certificate.

Additional Requirements for Stays Longer than Six Months

Not having a criminal record in Spain and in the previous countries of residence during the last five years for crimes that appear in the Spanish legal system.
Not suffer from serious diseases according to the International Health Regulations 2005.

Necessary Documents for the Application for Study Abroad Stay

To apply for a study stay in Spain, you must present:

Application form in official model, in duplicate, completed and signed by the foreigner or his/her legal representative if he/she is a minor. If you are outside Spain, present the form at the Spanish Consulate. If you are in Spain, use the corresponding form.
Full and valid passport or travel document, valid in Spain, valid for at least the period requested.
Documentation proving sufficient financial means for the requested period and the return.
For minor students, authorization from parents or guardians with details of the center or entity responsible.
Proof of medical insurance.
Documentation confirming admission to an educational institution.
If the length of stay exceeds six months:
- Medical certificate.
- Criminal record certificate issued by the authorities of the country of origin or residence within the last five years.

All documentation outside Spain must be apostilled or legalized. In addition, if it is not in Spanish, it must be translated by a sworn translator.

Where to apply for a Study Stay in Spain?

The application for a study stay in Spain should be addressed to:

If you are outside Spain: at the corresponding Spanish Consulate according to your address. Bring all the documentation together with the application form.
If you are in Spain: to the Immigration Office in your city. Make sure you are in Spain legally (with a long-stay visa, valid authorization or as a tourist). You must apply with at least 30 days of legal stay remaining.

Who Should Apply for the Study Stay?

The application must be made by the foreign student in person. If the student is a minor, the application must be made by the parents, guardians or accredited representative. You can also make the application through a lawyer, administrative manager or social graduate (online).

How to apply for a Study Stay in Spain?

From Spain

Until recently, it was necessary to go in person to the Immigration Office by appointment. Now, it is also possible to apply for a study stay in Spain telematically. You will need a digital certificate or to hire immigration lawyers to make your application. The Oficina de Extranjería has a legal deadline of 3 months to process and respond. If you do not receive news within this period, it can be considered rejected by administrative silence. Sometimes, residency for studies is granted after this period. You can track the status of your application online.

Granting of the Stay for Studies in Spain

If you are granted the Study Permit, you will need to apply for your physical card. You will need:

Application for a foreigner’s card, on official form (EX-17).
Proof of payment of the fee (form 790, code 012).
Favorable resolution of the Authorization of Stay for Studies.
A recent color photograph, white background, passport size.

Regrouping of Student’s Family Members

The student’s relatives may reside in Spain. They must apply for the visa at the Spanish Consulate of their domicile. The family members who can apply for this visa are:

Spouse
Domestic Partnership
Children under eighteen years of age or with disabilities who are unable to provide for their needs due to their health condition.

The application may be submitted by the family member himself/herself, together with the student’s visa application or at a later time. Proof must be provided that the student has sufficient financial means for the family unit, the family or kinship relationship and, in the case of children over eighteen years of age with disabilities, the need for assistance.

Self-Employment Authorization

During the period of study, only one self-employment activity is allowed. This activity must not replace the academic training and may not be used as the main means of livelihood.

Extension of Study Abroad Stay

To extend the stay for study purposes:

Request the extension at least 30 days prior to the expiration date.
Justify the continuation of your studies and financial means.
Present updated documentation, including school transcripts and medical insurance.

If the extension is accepted, a new alien identity card is issued with the updated duration.

Cancellation of Study Stay

The authorization may be cancelled for various reasons:

Completion of studies
Abandonment of the educational center
Impediment of full-time studies
Illness or incapacity that affects the performance of the studies

Resolution and Appeals

If the application is denied, you may file an appeal for reconsideration or an administrative appeal. Consult the deadlines and procedures for these appeals. For more information, visit the immigration lawyers page or contact us for personalized assistance.