Which are the approved studies and courses for a student visa in Spain?
Securing a student visa for Spain hinges significantly on the particular course and institution you enroll in. Even with comprehensive health insurance and ample financial backing, if your chosen academic program or institution does not meet the necessary criteria, your visa application will be deemed invalid.
This guide will elucidate how to verify the validity of your studies for obtaining a student visa in Spain and the types of institutions you should consider.
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Which are the approved studies and courses for a student visa in Spain?
ARE ALL STUDIES VALID FOR A STUDENT VISA?:
The answer is overwhelmingly affirmative. Nearly all forms of courses and studies qualify for a student visa in Spain, making it rare to encounter an option which will cause a problem.
However, it’s essential to heed the following recommendations.
- Contrary to common misconceptions, many believe that only a bachelor’s or master’s degree can validate their application. In reality, every year, countless international students secure their visas through various educational programs, regardless of their level or content.
- It is crucial to note that online courses are not acceptable. Generally, as long as your attendance is required in person, the course will be suitable.
- This stipulation makes sense since the purpose of a student visa is to physically attend a specific academic institution in Spain. Online studies do not necessitate relocation.
Therefore, if your studies are not online, you can successfully apply by enrolling in:
- Undergraduate, bachelor’s, and university degrees
- Master’s and doctoral programs
- Vocational training
- Higher artistic or sports education
- Language courses
Remember, the institution can be either public or private; both are valid for visa purposes.
COURSES THAT CAN HELP YOU OBTAIN A STUDENT VISA:
As previously noted, all educational levels are acceptable for obtaining a student visa. This includes early childhood, primary and secondary education, vocational training, and university degrees.
However, the course must culminate in a certificate or diploma. For instance, a training course that does not confer a certificate upon completion would not qualify for a student visa.
Sometimes the specific characteristics of the program or studies can complicate the process of application.
To secure your student visa, ensure your course adheres to the following criteria:
- A minimum of 20 hours per week
- Conducted at an institution authorized by the Ministry of Education or the regional government. This implies registration in the Official Public Registry or the registry of the autonomous community where you apply.
- Provides official certification upon course completion
If enrolling in a language course (a common choice for many foreigners), the academy must be accredited.
For Spanish courses, the center must be accredited by the Instituto Cervantes; for other languages, the analogous institution must accredit the program.
USE THIS EXTRA FILTER TO STAY IN THE COUNTRY LONG-TERM:
Many foreigners utilize the student visa as a stepping stone for long-term residency in Spain, although in many cases the student obtains their student permit, but often overlooks the requirements for transitioning to another type of residence post-studies.
This oversight is significant since the specifics of your studies and program will heavily influence your ability to remain in Spain longer.
To move from a student visa to a work permit, for example, your completed studies must be listed in a government registry known as RUCT.
Therefore, ensure your studies are accredited and recognized in this list when applying for your student visa.
This list can be accessed here.
For further assistance, do not hesitate to contact our immigration lawyers click-here ».
ALL TYPES OF RESIDENCY AVAILABLE IN SPAIN:
- Golden-Visa Spain (residence in Spain by investment)
- Non-Lucrative visa Spain (Spanish visa non lucrative)
- Self-Employed visa Spain (self employed expats in Spain)
- Digital-Nomad visa Spain (remote worker in Spain)
Please see-here our video-blog with options and legal-advice to obtain residency in Spain.
Remember that immigration procedures and immigration regulations change regularly, so it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest information from reliable sources. If you have specific questions or concerns about your situation, it’s advisable to consult with immigration authorities or legal professionals specializing in immigration matters, to do this, please click-here »
DO YOU REQUIRE ASSISTANCE TO APPLY FOR RESIDENCE OR CITIZENSHIP IN SPAIN?
We are a Spanish Solicitor and assist our clients with all types Spanish legal processes.
Permanent residency is obtained after 5 years of Spanish Residency through Self-Employed Residency, Digital-Nomad, Non-Lucrative Residency or Golden-Visa. This followed by 5 years as a permanent resident in Spain and means you can then obtain Spanish Citizenship with a Spanish Passport.
