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Student Visa Spain: Complete Guide to Study and Work Legally

written by
Natasha Machado
26/11/2024
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5 min
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Dreaming of studying in Spain? The Spanish student visa is your gateway to a transformative academic experience in one of the most vibrant countries in Europe. With a well-structured process and several benefits for international students, Spain has stood out as a preferred destination among Brazilians seeking quality education and professional opportunities.

How does the Spanish student visa work

The student visa in Spain is an essential document for those planning to study in the country for more than 90 days. For those seeking a complete experience of cultural immersion and professional development, the program Study and Work in Spain offers full support at every stage of the process. This visa allows not only to study but also to work during the course period, making the experience even more enriching.

The Spanish study permit is initially granted for the chosen course period and may be renewed as long as the student maintains a relationship with the educational institution and fulfils the necessary requirements.

Documents required for the visa

To ensure a successful Spanish student visa application, it is essential to gather all the necessary documentation. Check out the full list:

  • passport valid with all pages (copy)
  • Criminal record certificate of Brazil and the countries where you have resided in the last 5 years
  • Proof of enrollment at a Spanish educational institution
  • Health insurance Full Spanish (without grace periods or co-participation)
  • Medical certificate official with acknowledgment of the signature
  • Airline ticket with entry into Spain
  • Financial proof (minimum of 7,200€ for students)
  • Additional documentation for financial proof by a responsible person (minimum 14,400€)

Job opportunities while studying

One of the great advantages of studying in Spain is the possibility of work during the academic period. The country offers especially favorable conditions for international students who wish to gain professional experience.

International students can work up to 30 hours a week during term time, as long as the activities do not interfere with the class schedule. During academic holidays, it is possible work full time.

Authorization to work process

The authorization process to work as a student in Spain follows some important steps:

  1. Basic authorization: Required for all students who wish to work
  2. Automatic authorization: Available for technical, undergraduate, master and doctoral students
  3. Specific permission: Required for certain practice areas
  4. Renewal: You can include income from work as financial proof
  5. transitioning: Possibility to convert the student visa into residence after three years

Benefits after completing the course

Upon completing your higher education in Spain, you are entitled to various migratory benefits. The country offers a period of up to 12 months to search for employment after completing the course, allowing you to plan your stay and career in the country with peace of mind.

To ensure a smooth process, it is essential to have expert guidance. The Be Easy team has extensive experience in student visa processes for Spain and offers personalized support at every stage.

Details of the work permit process

The Spanish work permit system for students is one of the most flexible in Europe. With a well-defined structure, it allows international students to gain professional experience while studying, contributing to their academic and professional development.

A work permit can be obtained in two main ways: regular and automatic. For technical courses, undergraduate, master's and doctorate degrees, the process is simplified with automatic authorization, allowing work in any area. As for other types of courses, it is necessary to go through the regular authorization process.

Important points about the work permit:

  • Regular process: Requires submission of a formal job offer
  • Automatic authorization: Available for higher education students
  • Issue deadline: Between 15 and 30 business days
  • Validity: Same as the student visa period
  • Renewal: Can be done together with the visa renewal

Options for staying in Spain after studying

Upon completing your higher studies in Spain, a world of opportunities opens up for your professional career. The Spanish government offers special conditions for international students to remain in the country and start their professional career.

The process of transitioning from student visa to residence can happen in two main ways:

  1. After three years of studies:
  • Need for a full-time job offer
  • Salary compatible with the legal minimum
  • Streamlined transition process
  • No need to return to the country of origin
  1. After completing the higher education course:
  • Residence permit for job search
  • Legal stay for up to 12 months
  • Possibility to convert into a work visa
  • Flexibility to explore opportunities

Financial planning to study in Spain

Financial planning is a crucial aspect to ensure a smooth experience during your studies in Spain. Proof of financial resources is a fundamental requirement for obtaining and renewing a student visa.

For students who rely on family support, the financial proof process involves:

  • Required Documentation:
    • Financial Accountability Letter (legalized and apostilled)
    • Responsible's income statement
    • Bank statements for the last three months
    • Proof of family connection

The minimum amount required varies depending on the situation:

  • Independent student: 7,200€
  • With financial manager: 14,400€
  • Amounts subject to annual update

Visa renewal and maintenance of legal status

The student visa renewal process must be initiated in advance to ensure legal continuity in the country. It is essential to keep all documents up to date and to meet established deadlines.

During the renewal, you will need to present:

  1. Proof of academic achievement
  2. Maintenance of financial resources
  3. Valid health insurance
  4. Course attendance history
  5. Proof of residence

International student rights and benefits

As an international student in Spain, you have access to several benefits that make the experience even more enriching. The Spanish education system is recognized for its quality and for the appreciation of international students.

Among the main rights, the following stand out:

  • Access to the health system through insurance
  • Discounts on public transport
  • Possibility to work during studies
  • Access to libraries and public facilities
  • Participation in European exchange programs

Be Easy

Na Be Easy, we understand that the process of obtaining and maintaining a student visa may seem complex, but we are here to make it simpler and more accessible. Our specialized team offers full support at every stage, from preparing the documentation to the adaptation in Spain. We transform your dream of studying in Spain into reality, safely and with peace of mind.

Do you want to start your journey in Spain? Contact Be Easy and discover how we can help you achieve that dream!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy