What Is the Student Visa?
This is a permit that allows an Iranian citizen to enter Spain and reside there in order to complete an official study programme at an accredited Spanish institution (university, language school, vocational course). For programmes longer than 90 days, this visa must be converted into a student residence card (TIE) within one month of arrival.
Requirements
- An official admission letter from an accredited and recognised educational institution in Spain
- Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the entire study period (see table below)
- Comprehensive private health insurance, with no co-payments and no waiting period
- Proof of accommodation in Spain for the full duration of the programme (lease agreement, student residence or a hosting letter)
- A valid passport and a criminal record certificate (for programmes longer than 6 months)
Financial Means Required
The reference figure is a percentage of the IPREM (the public multi-purpose income index), which is updated annually under Spain's national budget law.
| Item | Approximate monthly amount |
|---|---|
| Main student (100% of IPREM) | Approx. €600 |
| Each additional family member (75% of IPREM) | Approx. €450 |
Financial means can be demonstrated through a personal bank statement, a study scholarship, or a financial support declaration from parents or a guardian together with their income documents.
Part-Time Work While Studying
Iranian students may apply for a part-time work permit once formally enrolled at their educational institution. This work must not exceed 30 hours per week and must be compatible with the academic schedule. Working without an official permit can lead to serious problems when renewing or changing residency status.
Working before obtaining an official permit, or beyond the permitted hours, is considered a violation and can negatively affect future residency or nationality applications.
Application Steps
- Obtain a definitive admission letter from the educational institution
- Prepare financial, health insurance and accommodation documents
- Submit the visa application at the Spanish Embassy in Tehran
- After arrival, register with the local town hall and obtain the student residence card (TIE) within one month
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in Spain with a student visa?
Yes, but only to a limited extent. Once formally enrolled and after obtaining a work permit, up to 30 hours per week are allowed, without conflicting with the academic schedule.
How much money must I show to prove sufficient financial means?
The usual reference is around 100% of the monthly IPREM (approximately 600 euros per month) for each month of the study programme.
Is the student visa also issued for short-term courses?
Courses shorter than 90 days are handled through the short-stay visa (Type C), while longer courses require a study residency (Type D), which must be converted into a TIE after arrival.
Can my family accompany me to Spain as a student?
In some cases, spouses and children may accompany the student, provided additional financial resources and separate health insurance are shown for each family member.