Thinking of Studying in Spain in 2025?
This might be your best opportunity yet. The newly updated Immigration Law, effective since May 2025, has made the student visa process significantly easier. Designed to attract young international talent—particularly from Latin America, North Africa, and Asia—it supports those seeking academic and professional development in Spain.
This article breaks down how the new student visa works, what advantages it offers, how to apply from abroad, and what it allows you to do after graduation.
What is the Student Visa for Spain?
The student visa allows non-EU citizens to legally reside in Spain for the duration of their studies, internships, or training programs. It can be applied for from your home country—or in some cases, directly within Spain.
The 2025 reform has digitalized the entire procedure and introduced key benefits for students wishing to work or stay in Spain after finishing their studies.
What Has Changed in 2025?
1. Fully Online Application Process from Your Home Country
No more consulate visits for every step.
A digital platform now allows students to upload documents, track applications, and receive resolutions online.
Resolution deadline: 30 days.
2. Automatic Work Permit (Up to 30 Hours/Week)
No extra paperwork is needed to work.
Valid for any paid job, as long as it doesn’t interfere with studies.
This boosts student autonomy and real-life integration.
3. Direct Access to Post-Study Residency
After finishing your studies, you can apply for a 1-year residency permit to job-hunt or start a business.
No need to leave Spain to switch visa types.
Work experience or internships during studies are viewed positively.
4. More Accredited Educational Institutions
The Ministry has expanded the list of recognized schools for international students.
This now includes vocational training and technical courses of at least 6 months.
General Requirements to Apply for a Student Visa for Spain
To apply for a Spanish student visa in 2025, you’ll need:
- An acceptance letter from an accredited institution.
- A valid passport (minimum 1 year).
- Full health insurance coverage in Spain.
- Proof of financial means (bank statements or sponsor support).
- Accommodation proof (rental agreement, residence, or invitation letter).
- Criminal background check (for programs longer than 6 months).
- Visa application form and fee payment.
Benefits of the New Student Visa
Besides simplifying the application and renewal, this visa offers major benefits:
- Automatic right to work part-time (30 hours/week).
- Access to internships in Spanish companies.
- In-country visa renewal—no travel needed.
- Easy transition to work or self-employment residency after graduation.
- Recognition of your studies for other migration processes (e.g., “arraigo por formación”).
What Study Programs Qualify?
You’re eligible if enrolled in:
- Official university studies (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD).
- Accredited exchange programs.
- Vocational or higher technical training.
- Specialized courses of at least 6 months.
- Language training (from certified institutions).
Important: Already in Spain with another visa? You can switch to a student visa without leaving the country.
What Happens After Graduation?
1. Job-Seeking Residency Permit
Duration: Up to 12 months.
Requirements: Completed studies and financial means or accommodation.
Purpose: Find a job aligned with your field.
2. Entrepreneurship Residency
Submit a business plan related to your field of study.
This qualifies as self-employment residency—with possible tax perks in low-population areas.
Ideal for tech, creative, or digital students.
How Can Legal Allies Help You?
The 2025 student visa process is easier, but proper documentation and legal understanding are still key. Legal Allies helps you:
- Confirm if your study program qualifies.
- Gather and translate required documents.
- Understand legal timelines and implications.
- Explore your post-graduation work or stay options.
We also offer country-specific visa guides tailored for students from Latin America, North Africa, and Asia.
