Last updated 20 August 2026, 00:00 (UTC+0)
Student visa (more than 180 days) D, SLU in Spain for U.S. citizens
Study visa
Student visa (more than 180 days) — what you need to know
Issued to those who intend to study at an accredited Spanish university or school for a duration exceeding 180 days. To apply for this type of visa, it is necessary to first receive an invitation letter from an accredited institution.
Full-time study programme at a recognised educational institution
Payment of tuition or enrolment fees is required
Funds of at least €600 per month for the main applicant, €450 per month for the first family member, and €300 per month for each additional family member
Insurance from a Spanish provider covering the entire period
Travel is permitted throughout the Schengen Area
Higher education students may work up to 30 hours per week without a separate permit
Higher education students may be accompanied by family members
After completing the programme, the holder can switch to a residence and work permit without leaving Spain
After completing the programme, the holder can switch to a residence and work permit without leaving Spain
Eligible individuals:
- Student
How does this visa work?
Don’t postpone the application
The visa is processed from 1 month to 2 months. Many people contact us 3–5 days before their trip, so start the process in advance
How can you prove the basis for the visa?
They clarify the purpose of the visit and future activities in the country
What must be prepared?
Basic package — always required, regardless of the application conditions
What additional documents may be required?
Documents required vary depending on individual circumstances, specific visa conditions, the place, and the method of application.
*Foreign official documents must be apostilled and legalized in accordance with the regulations of the country whose consular or diplomatic mission they are being submitted to. Additionally, they must be accompanied by a certified translation into the official language of that country or into English, unless otherwise specified by the mission's requirements.
**Prior to submitting the documents, it is strongly advised to verify the specific procedures and requirements with the relevant mission.
Are you eligible for this visa?
Clear purposes of the visit and documents confirming them, in accordance with the visa conditions.
Sufficient means to support oneself and their dependents for the duration of their stay in the country.
The applicant does not pose a threat to public order, internal security, public health or international relations of the country.
Insurance policy for the entire period of stay, meeting the minimum mandatory or recommended requirements for the country.
Valid permanent resident status or proof thereof; all preliminary procedures for visa application have been completed.
Official visa information
English international
Category code
D, SLU
Type of visa
National visa
Category
Long-term student visas