Including Work Rights During Your Studies

Spain is a leading destination for international students, offering high-quality education, a vibrant culture, and a comparatively affordable lifestyle.

If you’re a non-EU citizen planning to study in Spain for more than 90 days, you will need a national study visa (Type D).

This guide walks you through the process, requirements, and opportunities to work while studying.

📌 Who Needs a Student Visa?

All non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens intending to stay in Spain for over 90 days to attend an accredited educational institution must obtain a Student Visa (Type D).

🎓 Eligible Types of Study

The visa applies to:

• Undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs

• Professional/vocational training

• Language courses (e.g., Spanish)

• University exchange or research programs

• Internships and mobility schemes

📄 Required Documents

Here is a general list of what you’ll need:

1. Completed National Visa Application Form

2. Valid passport (at least one year of validity)

3. Letter of acceptance from a recognized Spanish educational institution

4. Proof of financial means (approx. €700–€800/month)

5. Health insurance covering your entire stay in Spain

6. Criminal record certificate (for stays over 180 days)

7. Medical certificate proving you are free of contagious diseases

8. Proof of accommodation (e.g., rental contract or university housing)

9. Translations and apostille/legalization of documents (if applicable)

📝 Tip: Check specific embassy requirements. For applicants in Cyprus, refer to the Embassy of Spain in Nicosia.

⏱ Application Timeline

• Submit your application in person at the relevant Spanish consulate.

• Apply at least 6–8 weeks before your intended travel date.

• Processing times vary, usually 2 to 4 weeks.

• Upon approval, your passport will be stamped with the visa.

💼 Working While Studying in Spain

One of the most attractive features of Spain’s student visa is that it allows limited work rights. Here’s what you need to know:

✅ Conditions for Student Work:

• You may work up to 30 hours per week during your studies.

• The job must be compatible with your study schedule.

• Your employer must obtain a work authorization from Spanish immigration authorities.

• You may also complete internships (paid or unpaid), particularly if they are linked to your academic curriculum.

• Internships require either a learning agreement or a work contract.

🚫 Restrictions:

• You cannot be self-employed on a student visa.

• Work permissions are not automatically granted with the visa—you must apply separately through your employer.

• This visa type does not count toward permanent residency.

🔄 Renewing Your Student Visa

If your studies extend beyond your initial visa period:

• You must apply for a renewal at least 60 days before expiration.

• You’ll need to provide academic progress proof, updated financial means, insurance, and current address documentation.

• Renewals are generally approved if you remain in good academic and legal standing.

📈 After Graduation: What’s Next?

Spain offers post-study opportunities for non-EU students, including:

• Applying for a 12-month residence permit to look for work or start a business (“estancia por búsqueda de empleo”)

• Transitioning to a work or highly-skilled residence permit, subject to a job offer and approval

• Participating in paid internship programs with a different type of residence permit

📌 Key Resources:

• Spanish Embassy in Nicosia – Study Visa Info

• Spain’s Ministry of Inclusion – Immigration

• SEPE – Spain’s Public Employment Service

🎯 UAGC Support

At UAGC, we are committed to supporting you at every step of your international academic journey. Our advisors can help you:

• Understand visa and work rights

• Prepare documentation

• Connect with resources in Spain