The upcoming fall semester is approaching for millions of Americans which can only mean one thing – high school and college students alike are looking to explore the world by studying in another country. During this time, we get many questions about studying abroad, but the one of the most common countries we get asked about is Spain.
As Spain is a very popular choice for students looking to study abroad, it’s understandable that many of you have questions about items such as how to obtain a Spain student visa, what you can do with a Spain student visa, and what Spain travel restrictions are currently in place due to the Coronavirus pandemic. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed and find yourself having more questions than answers, we’re here to help!
With that said, here’s what you should know about obtaining a Spain student visa:
What Can I Do With a Spain Student Visa?
A Spain student visa will allow you to work as an unpaid intern, study or train, or take part in a student exchange program. In order to apply for a Spain student visa, you must have already been accepted into a course or program.
What Types of Spain Student Visas Are There?
There are three types of Spain student visas:
- Student visa for less than 90 days
- Short-term student visa that is valid for between 3 to 6 months
- Long-term student visa that is valid for more than 6 months
Where Can I Apply For a Spain Student Visa?
Unfortunately, Swift is not able to assist you with obtaining a Spain student visa. You will need to apply for a Spain student visa at a Spanish embassy or consulate. Be prepared to make an appointment with the consulate or embassy as soon as you possibly can. Everyone is eager to get a visa and there will be limited appointments available.
You can find a Spanish embassy or consulate nearest you by going here.
How Much Does a Spain Student Visa Cost?
Another thing to be aware of is that the fee for a Spain student visa is approximately $70.
What Documents Are Needed to Apply For a Spain Student Visa?
You will need the following documents in order to apply for a Spain student visa:
- A valid passport that is valid until the end of your stay
- Valid form of ID such as a driver’s license
- An up-to-date student ID card
- Two filled-out Schengen visa application forms
- Two recent passport photos
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Spain
- A course/program letter of acceptance
- Proof of health insurance
One thing to be aware of is that these are the basic requirements, but the consulate can request additional documentation if they deem necessary.
Can I Work With a Spain Student Visa?
In short, yes, but not full-time. You can work up to 20 hours per week (part-time) with a Spain student visa, and can only work throughout the duration of your visa.
What Are Some Travel Restrictions to Spain Due to COVID-19?
On July 1st, 2020, Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and all the countries that are a part of the European Union opened their borders to non-essential travel – but there’s a catch. Only travelers from certain countries will be allowed to enter, and unfortunately, the United States didn’t make the cut. Essentially, this means that your plans to travel abroad may have to be put on hold until further notice.
You can read a notice from the CDC on the U.S. Department of State website that recommends canceling or postponing upcoming student foreign exchange programs until further notice.
We understand that you’re eager to obtain your Spain student visa, but unfortunately, there’s no telling when Americans will be able to study abroad once again. We have the same information that you do, and all anyone can do right now is be patient. If you’d like to stay up- to-date on the status of when passport and visa distribution will return to normal, you can check the travel.state.gov website.
