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. 

BSBI Barcelona Campus

Our Barcelona campus offers programmes that reflect the city’s strengths in entrepreneurship, design and global trade, giving you access to a dynamic professional landscape.
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BSBI Madrid Campus

Our new Madrid campus places you in one of Europe’s most important business and financial hubs — right next to Nuevos Ministerios station, a central location with fast connections across the city.
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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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  • "I’ve had a great experience. The networking events have been incredibly valuable, and I’ve learned so much throughout the program. Joining this master’s program completely broadened my perspective on what I wanted to do in the future, and now I feel like I have many more opportunities available to me.
    I truly value the chance I’ve had to study abroad. Stepping outside my comfort zone has helped me grow both professionally and personally. If you have the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree abroad, I highly encourage you to take it."
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  • "Since I arrived in Barcelona, it has been an incredible experience. Living here has allowed me to learn so much, especially by being exposed to new perspectives and ideas from people around the world. I’ve met amazing individuals with unique backgrounds and inspiring stories, and those connections have enriched both my personal and professional journey.

    My goal is to build a career in the healthcare sector, focusing on the administrative side. Throughout this experience, I’ve strengthened my leadership skills, and I’m excited to continue growing professionally while having the opportunity to travel and discover new places along the way."
    Aya ShawkyMSc International Health Management

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