Visa and immigration

At BSBI Spain, our Master’s programmes have a duration of 18 months, meaning students will require a long-term legal stay in Spain. 

Proper immigration planning is essential before arrival, throughout your studies, and after graduation. Below you will find key guidance for both EU/EEA students and non-EU 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. 

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. 

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 

After arrival, students must:
 
- Apply for the TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) within 30 days. 
 
- Register at the local town hall (Empadronamiento). 
 
- 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. 

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

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. 

Living and Studying in Madrid

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Employability and job opportunities in Spain

In today’s globalised world, education must go beyond knowledge — it must prepare you for a competitive workforce. At BSBI Spain, employability is central to our mission, combining academic excellence with strong industry links to equip graduates with confidence, skills and global mobility.
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Lifestyle in Spain

Studying at BSBI in Spain means more than a qualification — it’s life in a country where ambition meets quality living. With campuses in Madrid and Barcelona, students enjoy two vibrant, global capitals.
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Visa and immigration in Spain

At BSBI Spain, our Master’s programmes last 18 months, requiring a long-term legal stay. Proper immigration planning is essential before arrival, during your studies, and after graduation. Guidance below covers EU/EEA and non-EU students.
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Entry requirements

Discover the entry pathways for this programme, designed for different academic and professional backgrounds. Choose the route that best fits your qualifications and career goals.
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Fees and Funding

Understanding the costs associated with your programme is an important part of planning your studies.
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Application Process

Apply to BSBI Spain programmes easily: check requirements, submit documents online, and track your application step by step.
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Important dates

Check out the upcoming important dates for Madrid and Barcelona — stay informed and don’t miss out!
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