Researcher & PhD Student Visa
Spain
Last updated: December 23, 2025
3 years (renewable)
$94
1-2 months
Low
About this Visa
This visa lets you live and work in Spain while doing research at a university, research center, or company. You need a job offer from a Spanish research organization to apply. You can work full-time as a researcher, bring your family, and stay for up to 3 years. After that, you can renew. This visa is faster than other Spanish work visas. Your employer applies first (20 days). Then you apply for the visa at the Spanish embassy (10 days). Most applications get approved if your documents are complete.
Key Benefits
- Work full-time as a researcher at your employer
- Bring spouse/partner and children who can also work
- Free public healthcare like Spanish residents
- 3 years initially, renewable for 2 years at a time
- Much easier renewal than other Spanish work visas
- Travel freely in Spain and the EU
- Path to permanent residence after 5 years and Spanish citizenship after 10 years
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 or older
- Have job offer from registered Spanish research organization
- No criminal record in last 2 years
- Have valid health insurance
- Have valid passport
- Not in illegal immigration status
Financial Requirement
Your employer must pay you enough to support yourself. No specific minimum amount is set by law. Most research jobs pay €2,000-3,000+ per month.
Documents
- Visa application formGet from Spanish embassy
- PassportValid for 1+ year with blank pages
- 2 passport photosColor, light background
- Hosting agreementSigned by you and employer, shows project and salary
- Criminal record certificateFrom your country, last 2 years
- Health insurance proofProof you have insurance
- Employment contractShows your salary and job details
- Degrees/diplomasProof of your education
- UGE authorizationApproval from Spain (employer obtains this)
- Fee payment receiptProof you paid the visa fee
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.