Can a US college student study aboard in Spain WITHOUT the long-term stay student VISA for Spain?

Question

My program department and I had a misunderstanding about the "new" VISA regulation, so it may be too late to apply for a student VISA to Spain by now (as I only have less than 1.5 month before departure to Spain). I know that I can travel as a tourist for up to 90 days being a US citizen.

My question is whether I am able to still do a "year-long study aboard program" in Spain without having a Student VISA by leaving the country (Spain) at the expiration of the 90 days allowed for tourist and travel to a different country, say France, and stay there for a day or two and come back to Spain? Will this allow me to stay in Spain for an additional 90 days? Does it work this way or does it not? Anything is much appreciate! Cruel honesty is welcome as long as it is constructive and sincere! Gracias!

Answer 1

What you suggest...exiting the country and returning  a few days later....Yes, it has been done, but it is not really legal.

Even though it is a bit late call the spanish Embassy and try to sort it out...they may give you the visa in less time then you think.

University classes in Spain usually start at the beginning of october, so you may have 2 full months to get your visa...

Your study abroad program is presumably for nine months or is it for a full 12 months??

What University are you supposed to attend?.. They might be able to give you advice also... (By the way...how is your spanish?)

Depending on which University you will be attending I might be able to assist you a bit more from here, I live in Andalucía  contact me if you like via e-mail.

Answer 2

SPAIN - *Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist or business stays up to 90 days.  (**90-day period begins when entering Schengen countries).  U.S. medical report required for residency, student, and work permits.  For additional information, contact the Embassy of Spain, 2375 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20037 (202/452-0100 and 728-2330) or nearest Consulate General in CA (415/922-2995 and 213/938-0158), FL (305/446-5511), IL (312/782-4588), LA (504/525-4951), MA (617/536-2506), NY (212/355-4080), PR (787/758-6090), or TX (713/783-6200).  Internet: www.spainemb.org

Answer 3

You'll probably need the visa.

Contact the embassy and see what you can do. Better safe than sorry.