It's exactly been 5 years since I received that one phone call that changed my life forever. It was a phone call from Embajada de España en Abu Dhabi and they just called to let me know that I can finally collect my passport as they had stamped my student visa on it.
¨But .. it was only 2 days ago when I submitted all my documents in your office! Are you sure you have the right name? Did I really make it?¨ I was still dubious of it all but the woman on the other line just chuckled and congratulated me.
Motherfather .. My student visa actually got approved! Spain is calling, and I had to go!
Five years passed by and yet, it feels like yesterday. I still can't get over at how my ADHD brain helped (and held me) through the meticulous and ridiculous process that is Student Visa Application. Anyone who's been an international student would nod with me when I say it's one of the most nerve-wrecking thing you'll ever do. All the paperwork, all the fees, all the late nights while you are applying to schools and getting your documents sorted. But after all the hardships, comes joy. Believe me when I say, this could be one of the most life-changing moments you'll ever experience. It is 100% worth it!
Step-by-step Guide for Applying for a Spain Student Visa for Filipinos
Overall, applying for a Spanish student visa is quite straightforward. Since there aren't any agencies that handle the application process for you (or at least, none that I'm aware of), you'll have to brush up your skills and DIY.
There are 2 Ways to Secure Spanish Student Visa as a Filipino:
1) Apply in Your Home Country (or where you're currently residing)
2) Apply within Spain if you are already here with a Short-term Visa (Tourist Visa)
The first step is to email the Spanish embassy in your current country of residence to inquire about the requirements. And then you can start gathering it one by one.
But .. what are the Requirements?
Option 1 - Apply from the Philippines (or where you´re currently residing)
Duly accomplished National application form from the Spanish Embassy´s website (see below)
1 recent passport‐size photo with white background (to be pasted on the application form)
Valid passport (required minimum validity must be for the duration of the stay)
1 photocopy of the data page of the valid passport and all previous visas and stamps
Previous passports (if applicable)
Enrollment at any public/private university or business school and the details of the course (plan de estudios) to be taken (including start/end date of course and length of course)
Proof of economic means: Bank Certificate, Bank Books, ITR, International Credit Cards ((your bank balance should have a monthly 100% of the IPREM which is about 600€ per month or 7200€ annually minimum)
Medical insurance provided by an authorized insurance company in Spain
IF THE DURATION OF STAY IS MORE THAN 6 MONTHS: THE APPLICANT MUST SUBMIT THESE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
9. Medical Certificate (done at any DOH accredited hospital or clinic) indicating the non‐existence of diseases that may have a serious effect on public health, according to International Sanitary Regulations of 2005 (authenticated by the Department of Foreign Affairs) (validity 3 months from date of issuance).
10. NBI Clearance (National Bureau of Investigation) authenticated by the Department of Foreign Affairs (validity is 6 months from date of issuance).
11. Must present Police/NBI Clearance from the places of residence within the last 5 years, authenticated by the corresponding authorities
All documents presented in English must be translated to Spanish by a recognized Spanish translator (traductor jurado) accredited by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
(See more here)
Option 2 - Apply within Spain if you are already here with a Short-term Visa (Tourist Visa)
Have a valid short-term visa in Spain (Tourist Visa)
Model EX-00 from the Spanish Embassy´s website filled out (see below)
Valid passport and a copy (required minimum validity must be for the duration of the stay)
Sufficient economic funds in order to sustain yourself in the country throughout the length of your studies (your bank balance should have a monthly 100% of the IPREM which is about 600€ per month)
Proof of accommodation while in Spain (signed letter from your landlord/landlady that you are staying with them for a minimum of 3 months)
Medical insurance provided by an authorized insurance company in Spain.
Be admitted to the course and university you are planning to study at. (Have your acceptance/admission letter handy even before starting your application)
Clear criminal background records (NBI Police Clearance)
Medical certificate demonstrating that you don´t suffer from any disease recognized by the International Health Regulation of 2005
For higher-education studies such as a master’s or postgraduate degree, it is very likely that you will be asked for the homologation or validation of your university degree if you obtained it in the Philippines
Bear in mind that all the documents must be properly legalized and translated into Spanish.
(See more here)
FAQ:
What are the Top Universities in Spain for Filipino International Students Pursuing a Master's Degree?
In the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, Spain boasts 55 universities, among which are esteemed institutions situated in bustling hubs like Madrid and Barcelona. Since each Spanish region offers a unique lifestyle, you should consider not only the academic reputation of the university but also the cultural atmosphere and opportunities available in their chosen area. Would you like to study and live in the busy metropole of Madrid or in the sunny beach city of Barcelona? Or perhaps you would like a more unique experience and choose Granada or Sevilla? It´s completely up to you ✨
Without further ado, here are the top universities in Spain as per the The Times Higher Education:
Universitat de Barcelona - Founded in 1450, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), blends over 600 years of tradition with innovation to offer an unparalleled educational experience to its students. For Filipino international students pursuing a master's degree, UB provides a diverse and inclusive environment conducive to personal and academic growth. It boasts a stellar reputation globally as its hailed as the best university in Spain and among the top universities worldwide.
Location: Barcelona
Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona - UAB has swiftly risen to prominence as one of Spain's top universities since its opening in 1968. It offers a world-class educational experience in a dynamic and inclusive environment - making it a favourite in the international student community. With a wide range of master's programs such as arts and humanities, sciences, social sciences, engineering, and health sciences, UAB provides options to suit a variety of academic interests and career aspirations.
Location: Barcelona
Universitat Pompeu Fabra - UPF est. 1990, known for its rigorous academic programs and world-class faculty, consistently ranks among the top universities globally. It boasts a diverse and inclusive community - with students and faculty from all over the world. International students will find a welcoming and supportive environment where they can connect with peers, fostering cross-cultural exchange and collaboration.
Location: Barcelona
Universidad de Navarra - Universidad de Navarra, est. 1952, has earned international acclaim for its top-tier academic programs, research excellence, renowned faculty members, and holistic education. As a research-intensive university, it provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources to engage in cutting-edge research projects.
Location: Pamplona, Madrid, Barcelona
Universidad Autonoma de Madrid - Situated in Madrid, the second biggest city in the European Union, UAM (est. 1968) offers students the opportunity to study in a dynamic urban environment with easy access to cultural attractions, recreational activities, and professional opportunities. It consistently ranks among the top universities in Spain and the world and renowned for its rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty members.
Location: Madrid
As for the top Business Schools in Spain, Eduniversal, a global ranking and rating agency specializing in higher education since 1994, named these 3 business schools as the best in Spain:
Esade - widely regarded as a top-tier institution for business education, ESADE consistently ranks highly in various global business school rankings, such as those by the Financial Times, The Economist, and QS World University Rankings. It is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, which are the three main international accreditation bodies for business schools, further affirming its commitment to academic excellence and quality.
Location: Barcelona & Madrid
IE Business School - widely recognized as one of the leading business schools globally, IE consistently ranks among the top business schools in various international rankings, including those by the Financial Times, QS World University Rankings, and The Economist. It offers a wide range of innovative programs, including MBAs, Executive MBAs, specialized master's degrees, and executive education courses.
Location: Madrid
IESE Business School - just like 2 previous business schools mentioned, IESE ranks among the top business schools globally in various rankings such as those by the Financial Times, QS World University Rankings, and The Economist. Its reputation for academic excellence and leadership in business education attracts students from around the world.
Location: Barcelona & Madrid
Is Spanish proficiency required to study in Spain?
Although many academic programs are conducted in Spanish, and some universities require students to have at least Spanish B2 level, there are also many universities that offer courses in English or other languages, especially at the graduate level. Many business schools I know (including the one I attended) have English-taught programs tailored for international students.
How much show money is required for a Spanish student visa application?
Aside from the receipt from the university showing that you had paid for your studies and the proof of accommodation for the length of your stay, it is also necessary to show 100% IPREM (Indicador Público de Renta de Efectos Múltiple/Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income) when applying for a student visa. This is an index used in Spain as a reference for the granting of aid, subsidies or unemployment benefits. It was created in 2004 to replace the Minimum Interprofessional Wage as a reference for these subsidies. Read it more here and here.
The 2024 IPREM is the same as 2023, with no increase until the government passes the Presupuestos Generales del Estado.
IPREM for 2024 is €600 (roughly 36,500 PHP) per month or €7,200 (roughly 450,000 PHP) annually
This means that your bank account should have a minimum of 450,000 PHP to show the Spanish government that you can sustain yourself financially and won't become a burden to the state for the specific period of your studies.
In 2019, I applied with 800,000 PHP on my bank account. I submitted my bank certificate stating I have this amount altogether with the receipt from my school that I had paid for my studies and a letter from my land lady that I had paid up front my accommodation in Barcelona for 3 months.
How to find Rooms or Apartments in Spain as an International Student?
#1) Leverage University Resources - Many Spanish business schools and universities offer invaluable resources and guidance for international students looking for accommodations. Sometimes, they even have partnerships with dormitories and student residences. So do check out your business school/university's website or contact their international students´ department directly. More often than not, they can provide great insights into housing options and resources in the Spanish city of your choice.
#2) Use Student-Friendly Platforms - Specialized platforms like Uniplaces, Badi, and Spotahome cater specifically to students. I got my first accommodation in Barcelona from Spotahome and I 100% recommend them. I even used them again when I moved to Madrid from Barcelona four years later.
#3) Join International Student Forums/Facebook Groups - Participating in online forums or communities for international students can be an excellent way to exchange advices, tips, and housing listings. Although I never used Facebook group to find a room/flat in Spain, I did use it once upon a life when I was trying to find my first room/bedspace in Dubai from the Philippines. I also know some acquaintances who were able to find their rooms in Barcelona from Facebook expat groups!
#4) Opt for Temporary Accommodations - In cases where securing long-term housing proves challenging, temporary options through platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com can be the best way. I suggest to book for at least a couple of months so you have ample time to find a long-term rental when you´re already settling in Spain. This way, you won´t feel too pressured to find a room/flat right away. This can also buy you time to explore the neighbourhoods in the city and even find friends who may be your potential roommates!
#5) Explore Real Estate Platforms - I put this last because this is the riskiest and trickiest of all. For instance, many real estate platforms in Spain are primarily in Spanish so this can lead to miscommunications, misunderstandings, and potentially signing agreements without fully understanding the terms. Another downside is that some listings on these platforms may be fraudulent or misleading so given the fact that you are still 8000 miles away, you may fall victim to scams such as fake listings, unauthorized subletting, or worst of all - rental deposits being taken without providing accommodation. Believe me, this happened a lot!
However, as long as you take everything with a grain of salt, you can navigate these platforms cautiously. My advise is VERIFY the legitimacy of listings by requesting additional information, photos, or virtual tours. You can do your own thorough research about the landlord´s reputation before committing. A lot of people I know usually go for this option when they have already arrived in Spain while they are in their temporary accommodations. This way, they can visit the property personally and check them thoroughly.
While we´re here, I´ll give you some of the top real estate platforms in Spain!
Idealista: This stands as one of Spain's largest real estate websites, offering an extensive array of listings for sales and rentals, including apartments, rooms, offices, and houses. Its customizable search options make it easier to find the perfect fit.
Habitaclia: This platform features listings for homes, apartments, and commercial properties in Spain, as well as helpful guides and advice for property seekers.
Fotocasa: Another go-to platform when finding the perfect flat in Spain, this boasts a diverse range of rental listings across Spain, encompassing apartments, houses, and rooms tailored to personal preferences.
Pisos.com: Recognized for its comprehensive rental property listings, Pisos.com provides options for apartments, rooms, and houses searchable by location, price, size, and other filters.
What are the Average Rental Cost for Filipino International Students in Spain?
The rental price in Spain depends on many factors i.e. the condition of the apartment, where it's situated, if it's shared or not, etc .. It's also good to note that the rents in Spain (or at least in the 2 major cities - BCN and MAD) have been sky rocketing over the past few years. I used to pay 280 euros (with bills included) on my second accommodation in Barcelona in 2019. Now the minimum rent for a room has gone double. As of 2024, the average rent prices in the 2 main Spanish cities are as follows:
Room: 450€ – 700€/month with bills included
Studio: 750€ –950€/month no bills included
1 bedroom apartment: 950€ - 1200€/month no bills included
2 bedroom apartment: 1200€ - 1800€/month no bills included
What are the Top Medical Insurance Providers in Spain for Filipino International Students?
There are many health insurance providers for international students in Spain but I'll list down three that I'm most familiar with (and most popular in Spain). The first two, I personally used and loved in a span of 4 years and I highly recommend!
I hope this post has been helpful in your research of coming to Spain. If you have any questions, please feel free to comment down below!
Can I obtain Spanish citizenship with just a student visa?
The quick answer is NO. Even though we're lucky that we only need 2 years of legal residency to apply for Spanish citizenship, it is important to note that having a student visa alone doesn't constitute legal residency. To obtain a residence visa, you'll need an employment offer in Spain to qualify for a work permit and residence visa. This can be achieved by seeking jobs after completing your Master's program or securing employment through internships. Another way is obtaining residency through marriage to a Spanish or EU citizen. And for those with ample financial resources (like Bea Alonzo) there's the option of applying for a Spain Golden Visa based on investing in property worth at least 500,000€.
Hasta pronto!
Thank you! A lot of useful information <3
With love,
Greta