Visa and immigration

For EU/EEA Students 

EU/EEA citizens do not require a visa to study in Spain, even for programmes lasting 18 months. 

Before arrival, you should: 

• Hold a valid passport or national ID 
   

• Obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or private health insurance 
   

• Secure accommodation in Spain 
   

• Have your official BSBI admission letter 
   

You will complete local registration procedures once in Spain. 

For Non-EU Students 

Since BSBI Master’s programmes last 18 months, non-EU students must apply for a Long-Stay Student Visa (Type D) before travelling to Spain. 

Typical requirements include: 

• Official BSBI acceptance letter (showing 18-month duration) 
   

• Valid passport 
   

• Proof of sufficient financial means for the full period of stay 
   

• Private health insurance valid in Spain 
   

• Criminal record certificate (if required) 
   

• Medical certificate (if required) 
   

• Proof of accommodation 
   

Applications must be submitted at the Spanish Consulate in your country of residence. We strongly recommend applying well in advance due to processing times. 

For EU/EEA Students 

If staying longer than 90 days (which applies to 18-month programmes), you must: 

• Register at the local immigration office 
   

• Obtain your NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) 
   

This registration provides legal proof of residence in Spain. 

The NIE is required for: 

• Opening a bank account 
   

• Signing rental contracts 
   

• Internship agreements 
   

Employment contracts

For Non-EU Students 

After arrival, students must: 

1. Apply for the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) within 30 days. 
    

2. Register at the local town hall (Empadronamiento). 
    

3. Ensure their residence card covers the duration of their studies. 
    

Because BSBI programmes last 18 months, students may initially receive a residence card valid for one academic year and may need to renew it to cover the full programme duration, depending on their visa issuance. 

Working During Studies 

Non-EU students in Spain are generally allowed to: 

• Work part-time (within legal hour limits) 
   

• Complete internships related to their academic programme 
   

Employment must not interfere with academic progress. 

For EU/EEA Students 

EU citizens may remain in Spain without requiring additional residence permits. 

Graduates may: 

• Seek employment freely 
   

• Sign work contracts 
   

• Register as self-employed 
   

Relocate within the EU labour market

For Non-EU Students 

Spain offers post-study pathways for international graduates. 

1. Job Search Residence Permit 

Graduates may apply for a 12-month residence extension to search for employment or develop a business project after completing their Master’s degree. 

2. Modification to Work Permit 

If you secure a qualified job offer, your student residence can be modified into a work residence permit. 

3. Entrepreneur & Innovation Pathways 

Spain actively supports entrepreneurship and innovation, offering specific legal pathways for business creation under current immigration frameworks.