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Social Security

Social Security Aka National Health Care System

When in a foreign land, social security matters a lot. A few minor mistakes can result in atrocities such as defamation and repatriation, jeopardizing the aspiration of earning an international degree. The knowledge of social security in Spain for international students holds profound importance, much like in any foreign country. Spain has well-defined rules for international students, which they must follow rigorously. Additionally, international students should maintain a high-level self-care regimen at the personal level. Let’s delve deep to know all about the rules of social security in Spain for international students.

Social Security

Anyone living on Spanish territory has to become part of Spain's social security system. It is an obligation for all: working expats (full-time/part-time), international students, citizens, etc. The NHCS covers all types of medical and health emergencies of people enrolled in the system. Self-employed people are also part of the system with a different structure for contribution.

Non-EU students who cannot be part of NHCS or the social security system must purchase private insurance. It also makes quality healthcare services accessible to policyholders at low or no cost.

Insurance Plan for non-EU International Students

Citizens of non-EU countries do not qualify to be part of Spain's social security system. Therefore, they must take insurance from a third party before departing for Spain. Further, some countries have mutual health provision agreements with Spain. Students from those countries do not have to buy third-party insurance. Check if this applies to your country. If not, then get third-party insurance before departing to Spain. Our recommendation is Adeslas & Caser. It is one of the best private insurances for students. The cost of private insurance in Spain ranges between 30 euros to 200 euros/per month, depending on the services incurred.

Opening a Bank Account

If you follow our recommendation, banks like Sabadell, a Spanish bank or Revolut Banks, an online bank, are the best for students. Besides that, students must have an NIE or TIE card to open an account or do any documentation-related work.

What is NIE – The NIE stands for Número de Identificación de Extranjero. It is the identification number for foreigners and is basically for every non-citizen of Spain. The number is required for all legal and financial work, such as opening a bank account, buying property, doing any financial transaction, etc.

What is TIE – The TIE stands for Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero. The card is proof that you are a Spanish resident. Having a TIE card means you have obtained your work permit and legally reside in Spain.

Study Visa for Spain

If you are aspiring to study in Spain, it is important to know about the process to get a student visa in Spain, as without it, you will never be allowed to live or study in Spain.
The country offers two types of students visa, namely:

  • 180-day D-type – Students enrolled in three to six months long courses are eligible for it.
  • Students visa (Type D) - Students enrolled in courses that last for more than six months are eligible for this visa.
The type D visa makes you eligible for Residence Card for foreign students (TIE). It is a temporary card but mandatory. It allows you to stay in the country for the duration of your course. Its validity is a maximum of one academic year, and students must renew it at the end of every academic year.

The terms and conditions for both student visas are:
  • One cannot apply for a student visa when already in the country for a shorter stay, e.g., on a tourist visa.
  • After arrival in Spain, a student cannot attempt to change his visa status.

How and When to Apply for Visa
Obtaining a student visa in Spain is straightforward. You can apply for D type visa or a student visa (Type D) according to the course you have selected. However, you can apply for a student visa in Spain after receiving the letter of confirmation from the university where you have applied for admission.

Documents Required for Student Spain Visa

  • Students must complete the visa application form.
  • Passport, valid for the projected period of stay.
  • Passport-size photographs.
  • Letter of acceptance from the Spanish University.
  • Details of the study program, such as name of degree, hours of study per week, etc.
  • Health insurance policy valid for the intended period of study.
  • Proof of finance that will cover your expenses during your period of study and living in Spain.
  • Certificate of medical and criminal records apostille by HRD/MEA.
  • Proof showing the completed payment of the visa application fee.
  • Criminal record certificate showing your clean image.

Multirisk Tenant Insurance

Spain has a solid network of healthcare centers. It makes access to healthcare services quick and easy for all. No one is turned away from emergency treatment in Spain regardless of his country of origin and paying ability. However, to get complete treatment, one should either be an EU citizen or a third-party insurance holder. The students self-care in Spain becomes hassle-free with health insurance that costs between 30-200 euros.