Frequently Asked Questions

StudentMove is a student support platform that helps international students from Western Europe and the UK move to Barcelona with less stress. We assist with university matching, accommodation, visa and legal guidance, local setup, and social integration.

Our basic matching and information service is free. We offer paid support packages for students who want hands-on help with applications, visa guidance, accommodation search, local setup, and premium support. Prices vary by package.

We provide support in English, Spanish, French, German, and Dutch. Our team and partner network cover the main languages spoken by students from Western Europe and the UK.

If you are from an EU/EEA country or the UK (for stays under 90 days), you do not need a student visa for Spain. If you are from outside the EU or staying longer, you will likely need a student visa (visado de estudiante). We help you determine your requirements and guide you through the process.

The NIE (Numero de Identidad de Extranjero) is a foreigner identification number required for many official processes in Spain, including opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, and working. If you are staying for more than 3 months, you will need one. We help you through the registration process.

The student visa process typically takes 4 to 8 weeks from the time you submit your application at the Spanish consulate. We recommend starting at least 3 months before your planned arrival date to account for document preparation and processing time.

Prices vary by type: shared apartments start from around 450 euros per month for a room, student residences from around 700 euros per month (all-inclusive), and private studios from around 800 euros per month. Location, size, and amenities all affect pricing.

Never pay before seeing the property or signing a contract. Be wary of prices that are too good to be true. Avoid sending money via Western Union or cryptocurrency. Using our vetted partner network is the safest way to find accommodation from abroad.

Popular student areas include Eixample (central, well-connected), Gracia (bohemian, village feel), Poble Sec (affordable, lively nightlife), and Sants (affordable, close to universities). The best area depends on your university location, budget, and lifestyle. We help you choose.

Monthly living costs typically range from 800 to 1,500 euros depending on your lifestyle and housing choice. Accommodation is the biggest expense (450-900 euros). Food costs around 200-350 euros, transport around 40 euros with a student pass, phone around 15-25 euros, and entertainment varies.

Public universities charge around 1,500 to 4,000 euros per year for EU students (higher for non-EU). Private universities range from 8,000 to 25,000+ euros per year depending on the program. Business schools can be higher. We help you compare costs and find programs within your budget.