Course Guide 2026Research Stay
Research Stay
Spain Student Visa
Planning a research stay in Spain as a non-EU national? Depending on your situation, you may need either a student visa or a separate researcher visa. Here is how to determine which applies to you.
Overview
Spain Student Visa for Research Stay Students
The Spain student visa process for research stay students follows the same core steps as all other student visa applications — with specific considerations for enrolment letter requirements and course eligibility.
Eligibility Requirements
- At least 20 classroom hours per week
- Course runs for more than 90 days
- In-person delivery at an accredited Spanish institution
- Official enrolment letter from your institution
Key Documents
- Enrolment letter confirming hours, dates, and course details
- Financial proof (bank statements – min. €600–800/month)
- Spain student visa-compliant health insurance
- Criminal record certificate with apostille and sworn translation
- Medical certificate and EX-00 form in Spanish
FAQ
Spain Student Visa for Research Stay — Questions Answered
Yes — if your research stay exceeds 90 days and you are a non-EU national, you need either a Spain student visa (if you are enrolled in a doctorate or affiliated with a university programme) or a researcher visa (if you have a hosting agreement with a recognised Spanish research institution).
The student visa (estancia por estudios) is for those enrolled in an official academic programme — including PhD programmes. The researcher visa (visado para investigación) is specifically for researchers affiliated with a recognised research organisation under a hosting agreement. The researcher visa is typically for post-doctoral researchers and visiting academics who are not enrolled as students.
Yes — if you are formally enrolled in a Spanish university's doctoral programme, the student visa is the correct visa type. The researcher visa is distinct and applies to researchers who are not registered as students.
The duration depends on the type of visa. Student visas for PhD students can be renewed annually. Researcher visas are typically issued for the duration of the hosting agreement.
The same as any student visa — plus an official enrolment letter from your university's doctoral school or research centre. The letter must confirm your research affiliation, the duration of your stay, and your funding arrangements.
PhD students on a student visa have the standard 30-hour weekly work right. This covers academic activities like teaching, tutoring, and research assistant roles within the university. Commercial work outside the university also falls within the 30-hour limit.