Welcome students to Spain.

Moving to Spain is an exciting journey, but it requires a very specific administrative sequence. If you miss a step, you could find yourself stuck in a loop of appointments. We’ve mapped out the exact process so you can secure your stay and focus on your academic goals.

Roadmap: How to Settle in Spain in 8 Steps

Step 1. Spanish Phone Number (+34) — Digital Key

- When? 4–5 months before departure, from the country of origin.

- Why? It is the first mandatory step. All residency forms and secure applications of traditional Spanish banks require a number of exactly 9 digits (Spanish format) to send the SMS-OTP security codes. Without it, the computer systems block you.

Step 2. Traditional Non-Resident Bank Account — The Financial Engine

- When? Immediately after obtaining the Spanish phone number, before departure.

Step 3. Securing Housing (Housing) and Guarantee Methods

- When? 3–4 months before departure.

Step 4. Obtaining the NIE Number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)

- When? Before departure (at the Spanish Consulate in your country of origin Non EU/SEE citizens) or immediately upon arrival for EU/SEE citizens .

Step 5. Empadronamiento (Domicile Registration)

- When? In the first few days after physically settling in your new home in Spain.

Step 6. Compulsory Health Insurance

- When? It must be active from the first day of validity of the contract or visa.

Step 7. Requesting a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) — Non-EU/SEE Only

- When? Within a maximum of 30 days of physical entry into Spain/Schengen area.

- Why? The student visa in the passport is usually only valid for 90 days. In order to legally reside for the entire duration of their studies, Non-EU students must exchange their visa for a physical residence card (TIE).

Step 8. Integration & Cultural Integration

Step 1

Spanish Phone Number (+34) — Digital Key

 Spanish Phone Number (+34) 

- When? 4–5 months before departure, from the country of origin.

- Why? It is the first mandatory step. All residency forms and secure applications of traditional Spanish banks require a number of exactly 9 digits (Spanish format) to send the SMS-OTP security codes. Without it, the computer systems block you.

- How is it done legally? According to the Spanish law Ley 25/2007, anonymous cards are prohibited. The student buys a prepaid plan (Prepago) online via eSIM (Vodafone, Orange/Simyo, Yoigo) or orders a physical card from Amazon. Identification is officially done with the Passport.

Stay Connected from Day One
​Navigating a new country can be overwhelming, and having reliable internet access from the moment you land is essential. Whether you need to use Google Maps to find your dorm, look up public transport routes, or simply stay in touch with family, having a local connection is your first priority.
​We recommend Sim Local ES for international students arriving in Spain. It is a dedicated solution for your mobile connectivity needs, providing you with data plans that keep you online without the hassle and high costs of international roaming. By getting your connection sorted early, you can focus on the more important tasks of settling in, like campus registration and exploring your new neighborhood.

Sim Local ES

To purchase and activate an eSIM from Sim Local for Spain as an international student, you do not need any physical documents or visas, as the process is completely online.
However, you must meet some strict technical and legal requirements before purchasing:
1. Required technical specifications

- Unlocked phone on any network: Your device must not be restricted by a mobile operator (not locked to the network).
- eSIM compatibility: Your phone must support eSIM technology (for example: iPhone XS or later, Samsung Galaxy S20 or later, Google Pixel 3 or later).

2. Information required upon purchase
When purchasing the plan from the Sim Local website or app, you will only need to provide:

- A valid email address: To receive the activation QR code and instructions.
- A digital payment method: Credit/debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay.

3. Important exception (Spanish law)
If you choose a standard Local Sim plan (which only offers internet data), you do not need a passport or ID.
If the chosen plan also includes a local Spanish phone number for calls and SMS, Spanish law (Law 25/2007) prohibits anonymous cards. In this specific case, during activation you will be asked for:

- Valid passport or ID card (C.I.).

- A selfie photo for identity verification.

Lebara Spain (Best for non-EU and EU students)

Lebara operates on the Vodafone network (great 5G coverage) and specializes in international and expat students. Their prepaid plans (Prepago) are completely all-inclusive.

- What you get: Massive data volume (e.g. 50GB to 150GB), unlimited national calls, and hundreds of included minutes to international destinations (covering Europe, Latin America, North America, and parts of Asia).

- How to bypass the address: When completing your online order, use the official address of your Spanish university or original hostel/hotel. Since it is an eSIM, no physical correspondence is sent.

- ID requirements: Accepts all international passports and EU national IDs in digital format.

- Payment: Accepts foreign credit/debit cards and PayPal.

Lycamobile Spain (Best for high data volume + international minutes) 

Lycamobile operates on the Yoigo/MasOrange network. It is a direct competitor to Lebara and offers similar all-inclusive prepaid packages.

- What you get: Unlimited or high-capped data plans, unlimited calls to Spain, and large volumes of international minutes to over 50 countries included in the price.
- How to bypass the address: Enter your university campus address in the billing/delivery fields.
- ID requirements: Upload a standard passport photo or EU ID during the digital checkout process.
- Delivery: The eSIM QR code arrives via email immediately after completing the digital identity verification.

Simyo Spain (Best for pure data and local flexibility)

Step 2

Traditional Non-Resident Bank Account in Spain — The Financial Engine

Step 3

Secure your accommodation 

When looking for accommodation in Spain, the reliability hierarchy (from safest to most flexible) is as follows:

1. Residencias de Estudiantes (High Standard Private Residences)
Companies like Yugo, Resa or Livensa Living are the "premium" standard in Spain.
- Advantages: Everything is included (electricity, water, WI-FI, cleaning, sometimes even meals). You don't need a NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) or a Spanish bank account to book.
- Procedure: Booking is done 100% online, on their official websites.
It is the cleanest operational process possible.
- Tip: Book early (4-6 months in advance), places sell out quickly.

2. Colegios Mayores (Traditional University Dormitories)
These are often affiliated with universities or religious/private foundations
- Specific: They are more than just a place to sleep. They have mentoring programs, social activities, and strict rules (sometimes they also have "curfews" or dress codes).
- Procedure: You must apply directly on the website of the university where you will study or on the specific website of each Colegio Mayor.

3. Public Dormitories (State University Dormitories)

- Specific: They are the cheapest, but also the most difficult to access. They are often reserved for students with social or merit scholarships.
​- Procedure: Information is found exclusively on the university website, in the "Accommodation" section.

Yugo

Yugo Spain is a major global platform dedicated to private student residences, offering modern accommodation and integrated services in the largest university centres in Spain. Their complexes are designed specifically for students, offering all-inclusive facilities (utilities, Wi-Fi and cleaning).
Main cities and Yugo residences in Spain

- Madrid: Has many modern locations such as Maravillas (in the heart of the Malasaña district), Galdós, Nuevo Norte and El Faro. Many offer full-board options.
- Barcelona & Terrassa: Offers residences well connected to campuses, such as Aleu, Yugo Port), Maria Oliveras and Terrassa Can Telar.
- Seville: Includes affordable options such as Bermejales and Cartuja, some rooms with private washing machines and dishwashers.
- Alcalá de Henares: Home to the Lope de Vega residence, ideal for those studying close to the capital.
- Valencia: Popular coastal destination offering accommodation adapted to the student lifestyle and summer stays.

Commonly included facilities and services

- Fully furnished rooms: Private studios, single rooms with their own kitchen or double rooms.
- Premium common areas: Fitness rooms (gym), quiet study areas, games rooms, outdoor terraces and cinemas.
- Utilities included: Electricity, water, gas and high-speed internet bills are covered by the monthly fee.
- Security and support: Reception available and security active 24/7 in most locations.

Booking conditions and prices
Prices vary greatly depending on the city and the type of room chosen. For example, a basic room in Seville can start from around €690 - €787 / month, while full board options in Madrid can exceed €1,900 - €2,100 / month. To pay in monthly installments as an international student, a guarantor residing in Spain is required; otherwise, the rent is paid in full in advance for the entire year.

RESA

Is the largest network of university residences in Spain, managing over 11,000 places in around 40 complexes spread across the major university centres (Madrid, Barcelona, ​​Valencia, Salamanca, Bilbao, etc.).
Unlike classic rentals from private landlords, RESA operates as an all-inclusive private campus.
RESA Spain Profile and Facilities

- Room types: Individual studios with own kitchen (estudios), rooms in shared apartments or rooms with full/half board (all meals included).
- Services included: Utilities (water, gas, electricity), high-speed Wi-Fi, weekly cleaning, access to the gym, quiet study rooms and laundry.
- Community: They constantly organise cultural integration events (competitions, sports, excursions) through their Resa HUB programme.

Registration Process:- Selection of the interval: The student chooses whether he wants a full academic year (9-10 months) or an intermediate stay (semester).
- Reservation fee and Deposit: When registering online, an administration fee (approx. €200) and a security deposit (fianza, equivalent to 1-2 months' rent, refundable at the end of the contract) are paid. These initial payments can be made directly with the Santander card obtained in Step 2(Road Map).
- Tight confirmation deadline: After RESA sends the admission letter, the student has a maximum of 7 days (or 72 hours starting in July) to upload the documents and the signed bank mandate, otherwise he loses the place.

Livensa Living

Is the second largest and most modern operator of private student residences in Spain and Portugal, being the main competitor to RESA. Their properties are Premium / Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA), focused on modern facilities and contemporary design, being present in over 15 major cities in Spain (Madrid, Barcelona, ​​Valencia, Seville, Granada, Bilbao, Salamanca, etc.).

Profile and Facilities of Livensa Living Spain

- Fully Equipped Rooms: All options (individual studios or rooms in shared apartments) include their own equipped kitchen (stove, microwave, fridge), private bathroom, air conditioning and office space.
- All-Inclusive Services: All utilities (water, electricity, high-speed Wi-Fi) are included in the fixed monthly price.
- Premium Common Areas: Offers top-notch facilities such as rooftop pools, cinema rooms, state-of-the-art fitness rooms, multimedia studios, games rooms and co-working spaces.
- Security: 24/7 video surveillance and permanent reception, a major psychological safety factor for parents of international students.

Unlike some private landlords, Livensa Living has very strict corporate rules regarding payments:

- Recurring Payment Method: Monthly rent billing is done exclusively by SEPA direct debit (Direct Debit) in the first 5 days of the month.

- Guarantee: Their online system requires a mandatory IBAN from the eurozone to configure the payment mandate. Entering the Spanish IBAN (ES...) from Banco Santander obtained online in the previous step (Road Map) guarantees instant acceptance of the contract without additional financial audits.

Booking Process (User Actions):

- Deposit Payment (Fianza): To secure the room, the student must pay a security deposit (equivalent to one or two months’ rent, depending on the location) plus a non-refundable booking fee (approx. €150–€200). This can be paid online with the Santander debit card received in Step 2(Road Map).

- Contract Signing: The contract is digitally signed through their platform (e.g. via HelloSign or DocuSign), and the security OTP code is sent to the Spanish phone number obtained in Step 1.(Road Map)

Colegio Mayor

Is not just a dormitory building, but a traditional academic and cultural institution, integrated or directly affiliated to a Spanish university (adscrito).
However, their business model and selection criteria are completely different from those of private residences (Yugo, RESA and Livensa).

Financial Dependency
Most of these institutions are managed by foundations or public universities. Payment is strictly by SEPA direct debit at the beginning of each month.

- Attention: Some Colegios Mayores do not accept initial card payments for the advance, but require a direct bank transfer from the Spanish account to their account. Therefore, opening a Banco Santander account at Step 2 is an eliminatory barrier.

Time Criterion (Unlike residences)

- When to apply? Enrollments start very early, often in February - April for the academic year that starts in September.

Checklist Documents
The process is more like a college admission than renting a room:

- Letter of Intent (Essay in Spanish explaining why you want to be part of that community).
- Academic records from high school/college (Expediente académico).
- Acceptance Letter from the affiliated University.
- SEPA Mandate signed with the Santander IBAN (ES...).
- Interview Preparation: : “You will be contacted via Zoom/Teams by the College Director for a compatibility interview.”

Recommendation:

- “Choose a Colegio Mayor if you want to make Spanish friends from day one, need structure, and want to get rid of the worry of cooking or cleaning. Avoid it if you want total independence, wasted nights without justification, or if you have an extremely specific diet that you want to cook for yourself.”

Residencias Universitarias Públicas / Propias

Public or state residences (Residencias Universitarias Públicas / Propias) are accommodation units owned and managed directly by Spanish public universities (or autonomous communities). It is the cheapest accommodation option in Spain, but comes with massive bureaucratic barriers for international students.

Profile and Characteristics of State Residences

- Low costs: Prices range between €300 and €600 per month, well below the rates of the large private chains (RESA, Livensa).
- Limited places: Demand is huge from Spanish students, with places for international students on their own (free-movers) being extremely few.
- Points system (Barem): The allocation of places is not done on a "first come, first served" basis, but based on a rigorous socio-economic and academic file.
- Facilities: Rooms tend to be more traditional (often double, with shared bathroom), but include utilities, dining rooms and study rooms in the price.
- Payment of registration fee and rent: It is done exclusively by SEPA Direct Debit (direct debit).
- Restriction: The state university systems do not accept international cards for recurring rent payment. Without the Spanish IBAN (ES...) from Banco Santander obtained in Step 2 (Road Map), the student is automatically rejected from the university platform.

Time restriction (Critical factor on the platform)

- When to apply? Unlike private residences where you can book whenever there are places, public dormitories have fixed application windows: usually between May and June.
- Interface rule: HubStudentEurope must display an alert: "Applications for public dormitories close in mid-June. If you have exceeded this deadline, you will automatically switch to Private Residences or Colegios Mayores."
- Advantage: If they arrive through an official mobility program (Erasmus), the university offers them a specially reserved quota of places.
- Documents required in the interface:
1. Erasmus mobility certificate (Credential de estudiante de movilidad).
2. Passport / C.I.
3. SEPA mandate completed with Santander account.

Non-EU/EEA profile (Self-employed / Free-Movers)

- Barrier: They are placed at the end of the priority list, after Spanish and European students. They only have a chance if the university has a massive international campus.
- Documents required in the interface:
1. Copy of passport with student visa (or proof of visa application).
2. Official enrollment letter with admission average (Nota de corte / complete academic file, since high grades increase the prioritization score).
3. Proof of family income (certified translation into Spanish).

Recommendation:

“Apply to public housing only if you are on a tight budget and want to save up to 50% on the cost of accommodation. However, due to the massive competition, use our platform to have a private accommodation plan B ready in case you are placed on the waiting list (lista de espera).”

- Procedure: Information is found exclusively on the university website, in the "Accommodation" section.

Step 4

Obtaining the NIE Number (Número de Identidad de Extranjero)

Step 5

Empadronamiento (Domicile Registration)

Empadronamiento (Domicile Registration) is the official process by which a student registers in the census register of the town hall of the city where they will live (Padrón Municipal).
The certificate obtained (Volante de Empadronamiento) is the legal proof of domicile in Spain.
Why is Empadronamiento vital for a student?
Without this document, the student's administrative process is blocked:

1. For Non-EU students: It is the mandatory document to be able to request the physical TIE residence card at Step 7. The police will not issue the TIE without proof of address approved by the town hall.
2. For EU students: It is necessary to obtain the permanent Residence Certificate (green sheet).
3. Health: It gives the right to request the public health card (Tarjeta Sanitaria Individual) to be assigned to a family doctor at the nearest local medical center (CAP - Centro de Atención Primaria).

This step is closely related to the type of accommodation selected by the student

- If they have chosen Private / Public Residence / Colegio Mayor (RESA, Livensa, etc.):
- Advantage: The process is extremely simple. The student requests an official certificate of accommodation (Certificado de residencia) from the reception of the residence.
- If they have rented an apartment on the open market (private owner):
Technical Barrier: The student needs the original rental contract (valid for a minimum of 6 months) signed by them and the owner. If the student's name does not appear on the contract (it is only sublet), an authorization signed by the contract holder and a copy of their identity card are required.

Checklist Documents (For the visit to the Town Hall)

- Completed application form (Solicitud de Alta - provided free of charge by the town hall or downloaded from their website).
- Identity Document: Original valid passport (mandatory for Non-EU) or National ID (for EU).
- Proof of Residence:
- For Residences: Certificate issued by RESA / Livensa / Hostel.
- For Apartments: Original rental contract + latest utility bill (water/electricity) in the name of the owner.

How long does it take and how to obtain it?
The student must make an online appointment (Cita Previa) at the local town hall. On the day of the appointment, the clerk checks the documents and, in most cities, issues the document (Volante) on the spot, free of charge.

Step 6

Compulsory Health Insurance 

Compulsory Health Insurance is the legislative step that guarantees that the student has complete medical coverage in Spain. Without proof of this insurance, the consulate rejects the visa application (for Non-EU), and the immigration office blocks the issuance of the residence permit (for EU).

EU/EEA Profile
European students have access to the public or private system simplified, thanks to community agreements.

- Solution 1 (Free): European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
- How it works: The student obtains it free of charge from the country of origin (e.g. from CNAS in Romania) before departure.
The user uploads a photo of the EHIC card. The platform validates the step and generates the instructions for arrival: "Go to the nearest public health center (Centro de Salud) in Spain with this card, passport and Empadronamiento receipt to be assigned to a Spanish family doctor.
- Solution 2 (Private): If the university or master's program requires dedicated private insurance, the rules below apply (Non-EU Flow).

Non-EU/EEA Profile
Spanish consulates have extremely rigid rules. Over 30% of visa applications are delayed or rejected due to non-compliant medical insurance. A simple travel policy (Travel Insurance) is completely useless.

- Mandatory Consulate Requirements (Validation Conditions in Code):

1. No Copayments (Sin Copagos): The student does not have to pay any additional fees when going to the doctor or hospital.

2. No Waiting Periods (Sin Carencias): All medical services must be active from the first day of validity of the policy (without clauses that postpone access to treatments by 3-6 months).
3. Full Coverage (Seguro Médico Completo): Be equivalent to the Spanish public health system, including consultations, tests, emergencies, hospitalization and surgeries.
4. Repatriation Included (Repatriación): Mandatory clause that covers the costs of medical repatriation or in the event of death.
5. Authorized Company: The insurer must be officially licensed to operate in Spain (ex: Sanitas, Asisa). If you want to compare other options or are looking for other flexible travel/medical plans that comply with visa requirements, you can also use HelloSafe — a global comparator that allows you to quickly analyze various insurance offers tailored for international students.

1. Sanitas International Students
- Age: 14 – 35 years old.
- Average price: Starting from ~42€ / month.
- Advantage: Natively meets 100% of the consulates' criteria. Offers digital medical assistance through video consultations and includes a free basic dental services component (Dental 21).

2. Asisa International / Student
- Advantage: Contracting process fast online with just your passport. Documents and contract are issued directly in English (format agreed by consulates).

- Calendar Synchronization: Private insurance must be purchased at least one month before the visa appointment date, as the insurance certificate issued in PDF format must be printed and physically included in the visa file.

HubStudentsEurope recommendation (Digital Comparator):
If you want to compare other options or are looking for other flexible travel/medical plans that comply with visa requirements, you can also use HelloSafe — a global comparator that allows you to quickly analyze various insurance offers tailored for international students.

3, Ergo Seguros de Viaje ES

Since your insurance must be active from the very first day, avoid any administrative gaps by securing your plan in advance with Ergo Seguros de Viaje ES

To comply with Spanish residency and visa regulations, your health insurance must be active from the very first day of your arrival.
​Requirements for your application:
To secure your coverage online with ERGO, ensure you have the following ready:
​- A valid passport or national ID card.
​- Your official university enrollment or acceptance letter (as proof of your student status).
- ​Details regarding the intended duration of your stay in Spain to ensure the policy meets visa requirements.
​By purchasing your plan in advance, you avoid any administrative gaps or 'loops' that could jeopardize your residency status.

Digital Comparator HelloSafe

• Anonymity: Users can view policy rates and features instantly without entering a phone number or email address.
• Regulatory Compliance: Operates under a certified financial product brokerage license valid throughout Europe.
• Partner Network: Sources data directly from major insurance groups, niche brokers, and traditional financial institutions

Sanitas International Students

Is the benchmark product in Spain for health insurance for foreign students, specially designed to meet the strict legal criteria required by consulates and immigration offices (Extranjería).
The policy is valid for young people between the ages of 14 and 35, and the contract can be concluded for flexible periods (between 3 months and 1 year, with the possibility of renewal).

Why is this product perfect for a student visa?
Spanish consulates automatically reject files if the insurance does not tick three specific clauses. Sanitas includes them natively in this dedicated package:
- Sin Copagos (No Copayment): The student has 100% coverage for any medical service. He will not pay any additional out-of-pocket fees at the clinic or hospital.
- Sin Carencias (No Waiting Periods): All services (including operations or complex analyzes) are active from the first day of validity of the contract.
- Repatriación (Repatriation Included): Fully covers the logistical and medical costs of repatriation to the country of origin in the event of death or extreme emergency.

What does the policy actually cover?
Students have access to the largest private medical network in Spain (over 50,000 doctors and 4,000 Sanitas or affiliated clinics):
- General medicine and all specialties (Cardiology, Dermatology, Gynecology, etc.).
- 24/7 emergencies in hospitals, plus emergency medical assistance on international trips (up to €12,000/year outside Spain).
- Hospitalization and surgeries fully included.
- Free dentistry (Dental Package 21): Includes free consultations, annual cleaning, X-rays and simple extractions, plus discounts on other complex treatments.
- Digital Assistance (Blua): Emergency video consultations or scheduled directly on the mobile app (also available in English).

Commercial and Financial Details (For 2026/2027)

- Estimated Price: Rates start from approximately €41 – €43 per month. The final price is calculated according to the exact age of the student.
- Payment Method: For the visa application, Sanitas often requests an advance payment of premiums (semi-annual or annual). This payment can be made online with an international bank card or through the Spanish IBAN obtained in Step 2 from Banco Santander.
- Issuance of documents: The official certificate required for the visa is generated in PDF format immediately after confirmation of payment and is written in a standardized format that consulates validate instantly.

Asisa International / Health Students

Is the second most recommended product in Spain for student visas, being the main competitor to Sanitas. It is a comprehensive health insurance policy, specially designed to be instantly approved by consulates and immigration offices (Extranjería).
Asisa is often the most flexible option in terms of price and contracting logistics.
Why is it perfect for student visas?
Asisa natively meets the eliminatory criteria imposed by Spanish legislation:
- Sin Copagos (No copayments): All consultations and interventions are covered 100%, without additional fees at the clinic.
- Sin Carencias (No waiting): All services (including hospitalization and surgeries) are active from the first day.
- Repatriación (Repatriation): Includes the mandatory clause for medical repatriation or in the event of death.
- Travel Assistance: Provides emergency coverage of up to €14,000 - €25,000 when the student travels outside of Spain (e.g. on vacation at home).

Competitive advantages of Asisa vs. Sanitas:

1. No Medical Questionnaire: In the standard online process, Asisa does not require the completion of a detailed medical history (sin quizencia médico), allowing automatic approval of the policy.
2. Extended Age Limit: The student product applies to young people between the ages of 0 and 40 (Unlike Sanitas, which limits the student package to 35).
3. Family Packages: Allows the addition of family members accompanying the student to Spain to the same policy (spouse, children), maintaining the same visa conditions.
4. Instant Issuance: The official certificate in PDF format (accepted by embassies) is generated in less than a minute after making the online payment.

What does the medical coverage include?
- Primary care, 24/7 emergencies and direct access to all medical specialties.
- Full hospitalization and surgical interventions.
- Dental Guarantee: Includes free basic dental services and reduced rates for complex treatments.

Commercial Details and Prices
- Estimated Price: It is slightly cheaper than Sanitas, with rates starting from ~38€ – 44.50€ per month.
- Flexibility: It can be contracted for exactly the number of months the student needs (e.g. 3 months, 6 months or an academic year).
- Payment method: Supports online payment with international card or through the Spanish IBAN from Banco Santander obtained in Step 2.

ERGO

ERGO is an excellent choice for students as it offers a dedicated product called ERGO Estudiantes, designed specifically for international students, interns and Erasmus participants coming or moving to Spain and Europe.

ERGO Estudiantes: 

- Visa compliant coverage: For non-EU students coming to Europe, ERGO premium student plans meet the strict requirements for Schengen visas and Spanish student visas (offering repatriation and high medical coverage, with no co-payments/deductibles).

- Academic continuity coverage: If a student suffers a major medical emergency or family tragedy and has to miss the semester, ERGO can cover the loss of tuition fees or the costs of repeating the academic year.
- Long-term stay: Unlike standard holiday insurance, which is limited to 30-90 days, ERGO student policies can be taken out for up to 12 consecutive months, with the option to renew.

- Sports and laptop protection: The student module often includes coverage for on-campus sports injuries and theft/damage to study equipment, such as laptops or tablets.

Step 7

Requesting a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero

Requesting a TIE (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero) is the final and most important step for the legalization of Non-EU/EEA students in Spain.
The student visa affixed to the passport is usually valid for only 90 days. In order to legally reside in Spain for the entire duration of their studies, the student must exchange the visa for this physical plastic residence card (TIE).
When and Where to Apply?
- Deadline: Within a maximum of 30 days of physical entry into Spain or the Schengen Area.
- Location: At an authorized police station or the Foreigners' Office (Oficina de Extranjería) in the province where they are studying.
- Process: Requires a prior online appointment (Cita Previa) on the Spanish government platform, selecting the option "POLICIA-TOMA DE HUELLAS (EXPEDICIÓN DE TARJETA)" (Fingerprinting).

Checklist Documents (For TIE File):
- Official EX-17 form completed and signed.
- Original Passport + copies of the personal data page, student visa and entry stamp in Spain.
- Volante de Empadronamiento (Certificate of domicile obtained in Step 5).
- Matrícula Universitaria (Official proof of registration and payment from the university).
- Tasa 790 (Code 012): Government fee paid. The form is downloaded online, the Spanish IBAN from Banco Santander is entered (Step 2) and the fee of ~16€ is paid online or at the ATM.
- 3 recent passport-sized photos (fotos carné) with a white background.

Step 8

Integration & Cultural Integration in Spain

1. Public Transport: Youth Discounts (Transport Passes)
Spain offers some of the cheapest and most efficient transport systems in the European Union for students.
- Madrid (Abono Joven):
- Criteria: Intended for young people under 26.
- Price: Only €10 for 30 days (a heavily subsidised price valid throughout 2026/2027).
- Coverage: Unlimited travel on all areas of the Madrid region (Metro, EMT urban buses and Cercanías suburban trains).
- Barcelona (T-jove):
- Criteria: Intended for young people under 30.
- Price: Approximately €42.70 - €45.50.
- Coverage: Extended validity of 90 days (3 months) for unlimited travel on all integrated transport networks (metro, bus, tram).

2. ESN Card (Erasmus Student Network):
- Utility: Even if the student is not coming through the Erasmus program, most local student associations allow the purchase of this card. It offers great discounts on national transport companies (e.g. 10-15% discount on Alsa buses and Renfe/Iryo high-speed train tickets), plus discounts in bars and cultural events.
 Carné Joven Euro<26 (European Youth Card):
- Utility: Issued directly by the autonomous communities of Spain (e.g. Carné Joven Comunidad de Madrid). It costs very little (or is free in some regions) and offers free or half-price entrance to all national museums (Prado, Reina Sofia, Alhambra), cinemas and theaters.

3. Cultural Integration and Pace of Life (Convivencia):
- Spanish Timetable (Horario): Everything happens later. Lunch is served between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, and dinner rarely starts before 9:30 PM or 10:00 PM. Small shops may close between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM (siesta).
- Language as a Barrier and Opportunity: Although major universities offer courses in English, integration into everyday life (in bars, at the town hall, at the supermarket) requires basic Spanish.
- Social Culture: Social interaction moves outdoors and around tapas bars. In Spain, integration is done by "showing up" at events, sports groups, or student meetings

Speak Spanish from day one with Lingoda!

Living in Spain is amazing, but speaking the local language changes everything. Enjoy online interactive classes that fit your student schedule, no matter your current level.