Extension of stay for studies in Spain

Apply extension of Stay for Studies in Spain

Are your studies about to conclude, but you would like to stay in Spain and continue studying for a longer period? Then this article is for you. We analyze everything you need to know about extending your stay for studies in Spain. By the end of this post, you will perfectly understand what this extension entails, its conditions, the documents and requirements to fulfill, the step-by-step legal process to apply for it, and how to obtain a work permit once your studies are completed.

Renewal of Stay for Studies

The extension or renewal of your stay for studies is the procedure you need to follow to continue studying in Spain once your current stay permit expires.

So, what is the situation many foreign students face?

Typically, they come to Spain to study for more than one year (either pursuing a four-year degree or enrolling in a master’s program or other types of training after completing their degree).

The stay for studies is the authorization that allows you to legally remain in the country while you pursue your studies. This stay permit is granted for one year only and allows you to work up to 30 hours per week. Therefore, if your studies last longer than these 12 months, you will need to extend this initial authorization, known as the extension of the stay for studies.

Thus, this procedure has the following purposes:

• Extend your stay to continue studying in Spain
• Undertake non-labor internships
• Continue with research activities
• Participate in student exchanges or volunteer services
• If you have made a joint application and are in Spain with your relatives, the extension of your stay for studies will also extend the duration of their stay.

Documents Required for the Extension of Stay for Studies

Here are the documents you need to provide to obtain the extension of stay for studies in Spain:

• Duly filled application form
• Proof of residence
• Photocopy of passport
• Proof of enrollment payment
• Bank certificate
• Residence card (if you have one)
• Payment of the fee

Requirements to Apply for the Extension of Stay for Studies

These are the requirements you need to meet to obtain the extension of stay for studies in Spain:

• No criminal record
• Not be a citizen of a European Union state
• Not be listed as undesirable in countries with which Spain has signed an agreement
• Ensure that the institution where you will study is official and authorized
• Show that you have completed the studies with which you obtained the initial permit, either with a degree or a certificate from the institution
• Provide proof of enrollment showing that you have been admitted
• Sufficient financial means
• Private health insurance

Validity of This Extension

The validity of this stay is equivalent to the duration of your studies (i.e., the academic year), though it can be extended for up to one year.

For example, if you take a six-month course, your stay will be valid only for those six months. However, if your training lasts three years, the first stay will be valid for 12 months, and you will need to request this extension at the end of this period to remain legally in Spain.

It is crucial to note that if you do not renew and your studies end, you will automatically be in an irregular situation and must return to your home country immediately. Therefore, we recommend starting the process well in advance, especially if you wish to stay in Spain (this article will also explain how to switch to regular residence).

How to Renew Your Stay for Studies

Renewing your stay for studies is usually straightforward. Here, we explain the steps to successfully renew your stay for studies:

How to Extend My Stay for Studies in Spain?

You must start the extension process within the timeframe, which means you should begin applying for the extension during the 60 days before and 90 days after your permit expires. It is important to know that you will not be irregular in Spain because once you submit your application, you will be granted a stay period that lasts until you receive the resolution.

Schedule an Appointment for the Renewal of Stay for Studies

Once you have your application and all the necessary documents, you must submit them at any public registry of the Foreigners Office.

What is the Resolution Period for the Extension of Stay for Studies?

After submitting all the required documents, the administration has three months to give you a response. If you do not receive a response within this period, your application will be considered denied by negative administrative silence.

What to Do Once You Have Been Granted the Extension of Stay for Studies?

If your extension request is approved, you will receive a notification from the Administration. From that moment, you have 30 days to schedule an appointment at the Foreigners Office to apply for your TIE.

If you need assistance with processing the extension of your stay for studies, do not hesitate to contact us, and we will help you with everything you need.