Spain Student Visa for Indian Students – Cost & Process

Spain offers internationally recognized educational programs through its top universities. One of the most underrated overseas study destinations located in scenic Europe, Spain is relatively more affordable than the traditional choices of overseas education for Indian students. Different types of Spain study visas are available, depending on the duration of your course.

Let’s explore why students choose to study in Spain and understand Spain’s study visa requirements for Indian students.

In recent years, Indian students have been flocking to Spain in increasing numbers as it offers a cost-effective and globally-recognized standard of education. Here are the top reasons to opt for a student visa for Spain from India.

1. The living expenses for students are comparatively lower in Spain compared to the US or the UK. 
2. Spanish is spoken in over 20 countries spanning Europe and America. Living in Spain and mingling with the locals is a great way to learn the language and immerse in a new culture.
3. Spain is home to the most vibrant coastal cities, snow-capped mountains, and desert landscapes with world-famous landmarks and architectural wonders. Along with its mild climate, Spain is also famous for its world-class Mediterranean cuisine.

Now, let us understand the types of study visas, the cost, and the application process for a Spain study visa.

Types of student visas for Spain

As per the Spanish Embassy website, there are primarily two types of student visas for Indian students pursuing studies in Spain.

Short-Term (Up to 90 Days) Schengen Spanish Student Visa Suitable for Short Courses

With this visa, you can stay up to 90 days commencing from the date of issue of visa by the Spanish embassy. You cannot renew this visa while staying in Spain, so you must travel back to India before the visa expires. This type of student visa for Spain is ideal for courses lasting not more than 3 months or if you intend to conduct research for a short period.

Long-Term Spanish Student Visa 

There are two types of long-term study visas.

• Stay for more than 90 days up to180 days: This visa will expire 180 days from the date of issue. If you’ve opted for a course lasting between 3 to 6 months, you’ll need to apply for this study visa, valid for up to 180 days. You must leave Spain before this visa expires.
• Type D visa for more than 180 days: This visa will not mention the restriction of 180 days. With this visa, you’ll need to reach out to the nearest Immigration Department branch in Spain and apply for a Student Residence Card for Foreigners called TIE. You must apply for TIE within the first month of your arrival in Spain. This identity card needs to be renewed for every year of your stay in Spain.

You cannot change the visa type from short-term to long-term while you’re in Spain. All visas must be issued in the home country. For an Indian student, you need to get a study visa for Spain from India. The Embassy of Spain issues student visas for Indian students traveling to Spain.

Cost of Spain Study Visa

The Spanish Embassy website mentions a non-refundable visa fee of USD 97 or INR 7156 for a short-term Schengen Spanish Visa valid for up to 90 days. For the long-term study visa for Spain, there is a consular fee of INR 5367. 

Application Process for a Short-Stay Schengen Spain Study Visa

The process to apply for a Schengen Spanish study visa valid for up to 90 days through BLS application centers is listed below. 

1. You need to have a valid Indian passport with at least two blank pages.
2. The Spanish Schengen visa form should be filled with a recent photograph affixed on it. The applicant’s photograph should not be more than 6 months old, on a white background with 35-45mm in dimension.
3. Travel medical insurance from an authorized insurance company is required for travel to Spain. 
4. Copy of academic records, such as passing certificates and mark sheets.
5. Certified enrollment letter (original and copies) from the college or university in Spain with the beginning and end date and duration of the course.
6. Proof of flight bookings showing entry and exit from Spain.
7. Proof of accommodation arrangements spanning the duration of your stay in Spain.

Application Process for Long-Term Student Visa (Stay Up to 6 Months or More)

Spanish student visa guidelines are as follows.

1. You must hold an Indian passport valid for at least one year after you arrive in Spain. 
2. Fill out and submit the D Visa Application along with the form. The form should be filled with a recent photograph affixed to it.
3. A medical certificate certifying your health as per 2005 International Sanitary Regulation. 
4. A Police Clearance Certificate needs to be submitted as evidence that there’s no criminal record in any place of residence in the last 5 years.
5. An Admission Letter or letter of acceptance is required from the Spanish college or university where you will undertake the course.
6. Proof of accommodation and a certified confirmation letter from the Spanish college or university detailing the conditions of your stay in Spain.
7. Travel medical insurance from an authorized insurance company is required for travel to Spain. 
8. Proof of funds to support your stay in Spain in the form of IT returns and bank statements.
9. You must produce a COVID immunization certificate approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Union (EU).

International students, including those from India, can apply for courses taught in English. It is not mandatory to know Spanish for admission into most universities in Spain. Indian students need to pass the IELTS or Cambridge Advanced tests for courses offered in English. If you opt for a university that’s offering courses in Spanish, you need to pass the Diploma de Español Como Lengua Extranjera (DELE) test.

You can opt for bachelor’s or graduate courses as well as short-term internships and unpaid training courses in Spain. Once you have finalized the college and course you will study in Spain, you can fulfill Spain study visa requirements for Indian students.