Are you thinking about studying in Spain and need to apply for a student visa? In recent years, immigration regulations have introduced important changes affecting timelines, requirements, and conditions for international students. In this article, we explain how student visas in Spain currently work so you can plan your process in advance and avoid setbacks.

Studying in Spain is a very attractive option for those seeking high-quality international education, especially if you choose a prestigious university such as Esade Business & Law School. At Esade, you’ll enjoy a unique experience in Barcelona, with programs tailored to every educational stage.

Key visa restrictions for international students

In recent years, some of the main destinations for international students have introduced stricter visa policies. In the United States, changes implemented in 2025 have led to more demanding application processes, while in the United Kingdom, since 2024, most students can no longer bring family members and must meet higher financial requirements.

This context has led many students to consider alternative destinations for higher education, with Spain consolidating its position as one of Europe’s leading destinations for international students.

Spain as an alternative for your academic future

Spain continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for students wishing to pursue higher education in Europe. Recent changes to the country’s immigration regulations have affected student visas, making it essential to have up-to-date information to plan your academic future with confidence.

Benefits of student visas in Spain

  • Faster processing: Resolution in a minimum of 1 month.
  • Work permit included for programs longer than 6 months, once you have obtained your TIE (Foreigner Identity Card).
  • Long-term authorization for higher education programs of 6 months or more.
  • No annual renewal: the permit is valid for the full duration of your studies.
  • Access to classroom-based or hybrid programs (as long as at least 50% of classes are face-to-face).
  • Visa for family members of students in Spain: family members must apply for their own visa and meet specific requirements..

How to get a student visa in Spain without getting lost in the process

Below, we’ll explain how to obtain and how to extend the student visa in Spain after the changes made in 2025. Remember that if you have any questions, you can contact our admissions team (admissions@esade.edu).

Documents and requirements to process your student visa in Spain

  • Official admission letter from a university such as Esade .
  • Passport valid for the entire stay.
  • Proof of financial means: at least 100% of the monthly IPREM (€600 in 2026*), multiplied by the number of months of the stay.
  • Health insurance valid in Spain (public or private).
  • Criminal record certificate (if the stay exceeds 6 months).
  • Medical certificate (for stays of more than 6 months).
  • Payment of the consular fee.

*Amount valid at the time of publication. This figure may change with the approval of the new Spanish state budget.

Where to apply for it?

You can apply for your visa:

  • At the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country.
  • In Spain, 2 months before the start of the program (if you are already in the country legally, on a tourist visa for example, and you have at least 60 days of legal stay remaining). In this case, you can submit your application for a study visa directly at the Immigration Office of the province where you are going to study or through the electronic registry if you have a digital certificate.

When should you apply?

  • A minimum of 2 months before the start of the program: the deadline to apply for the visa is 60 days before your studies begin.

Practical tips for getting your visa to study in Spain

  • Start the process between 60 and 90 days before the start of the program to avoid setbacks. (It is advisable to begin as soon as you receive your admission letter).
  • Check that your passport is valid for longer than the duration of the course (minimum 12 months recommended).
  • Make sure all foreign documents are translated into Spanish, and legalized or apostilled as appropriate.
  • Keep copies of all documentation submitted and follow the instructions of the university and consulate.

How much does a student visa cost and how long does it last?

  • Initial duration: for university studies, you can request that your visa cover the period from up to 1 month before the start of the program (maximum) until 15 days after the end of the program (maximum).
  • Cost of consular fee: varies by country but is typically around €80.

In addition, you can work legally while studying, which facilitates your professional integration in Spain.

If you have any questions, you can contact our admissions team at admissions@esade.edu.

The image shows a maroon-colored Spanish passport peeking out of the back pocket of a pair of jeans. This visual element symbolizes international mobility and legal access to Spanish territory—key aspects for those applying for a Student Visa. Obtaining this visa allows international students to reside in Spain during their academic studies.

Studying at Esade: a unique international experience

If you’re considering studying in a foreign country, the goal is clear: To study at a university that will give your career a global boost. That’s why at Esade you’ll benefit from an education with a transnational vision that helps you stand out. You will have access to:

#1: An international campus in Barcelona, a city renowned for its innovation, climate, culture and quality of life.

#2: Renowned programs in Business and Law that occupy top positions in the main international rankings. Our Full Time MBA, for example, is ranked #8 in the world by the Financial Times (2025).

#3: A multicultural environment, with more than 100 nationalities represented on our campuses.

#4: Experiences abroad included in all our programs.

#5: Connections with leading companies and real opportunities for employment.

Choose your program

In the following links you’ll find the information you need to choose the program that best suits your future goals, according to the career or education stage you’re at:

Bachelor’s degrees

Masters in Management MSc

Full Time MBA

Want to take the next step? We’ll help!

Start your application for your student visa in Spain early and we’ll be with you every step of the way. At Esade, we’re here to help you fulfill your dream of studying at one of the best universities in Europe.

Before starting your application, you can consult official government sources such as the European Immigration Portal for studying in Spain or the website of Spain’s Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration.

And remember, if you have any questions, you can contact us at admissions@esade.edu.