Spanish Researcher Visa (Visado de investigador)

Who it's for

Non-EU nationals coming to Spain to conduct research or R&D&I under an agreement with an authorised Spanish research organisation, university or company.

Requirements

• Hosting agreement or employment contract with an approved Spanish research organisation
• Evidence of the research/R&D&I project and the host's authorisation to host researchers
• Relevant higher-education qualifications for the research role
• Health insurance / social security coverage
• Clean criminal record certificate
• Sufficient financial means as required
• Valid passport

What you can do

• Carry out research or R&D&I at the Spanish host institution
• Bring family members through a joint application
• Undertake part of the research in another EU Member State under mobility rules
• Renew and progress toward long-term residence

How to apply

The host organisation or the applicant files the residence authorisation with the UGE-CE through the Ministry of Inclusion's electronic office. Once approved, applicants abroad obtain the visa at the Spanish consulate, then the TIE after entering Spain.

As a UGE-handled route, decisions are generally issued within around 20 working days.

Documents

• Signed hosting agreement or research contract
• Documentation of the host organisation and research project
• Recognised higher-education qualifications
• Proof of health cover / social security
• Criminal record certificate
• Passport and application forms