If you’re a Chinese national planning to stay in Spain longer than 90 days — whether to study, work, retire, or live with family — you’ll need a Spanish national visa (Type D).
This guide explains the main visa categories available to Chinese citizens, including requirements, financial thresholds, and how Borderless Lawyers can help you succeed in your application.
🗂️ Overview of Spain’s Visa Options
| Visa Type | Best For | Work Allowed? | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Visa | University, school, or language programs | ✅ Yes (up to 30h/week) | Based on study length |
| Work Visa (Cuenta Ajena) | Chinese citizens with a Spanish job offer | ✅ Yes | 1–2 years |
| Digital Nomad Visa | Remote workers or freelancers | ✅ Yes | 3 years |
| Entrepreneur Visa | Startups and innovative business projects | ✅ Yes | 3 years |
| Non-Lucrative Visa | Retirees or financially independent persons | ❌ No | 1 year |
| Family Reunification | Joining a relative legally in Spain | ✅ Yes | Matches sponsor’s permit |
📝 All visas must be applied for at the Spanish consulate in China (Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou).
🎓 1. Student Visa
Ideal for:
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Chinese students enrolled in Spanish universities
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Language or master’s programs
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Long-term academic courses
Requirements:
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Admission letter from a recognized Spanish school
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Proof of financial means (€600–€700/month)
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Private health insurance
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Criminal background check (apostilled + translated)
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Apostilled medical certificate
✅ Part-time work allowed (30 hours/week)
🎓 You can later apply for a work permit after graduation.
💼 2. Work Visa (Cuenta Ajena)
This visa is for Chinese nationals with a job offer from a Spanish company.
Steps:
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Employer applies for initial residence authorization in Spain
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You apply for a visa at the consulate in China once approved
Requirements:
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Valid job offer
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Education or work experience related to the role
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Clean background and health certificate
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All Chinese documents must be apostilled and translated
⚠️ Most jobs must be on Spain’s shortage occupation list — legal guidance is highly recommended.
💻 3. Digital Nomad Visa
Perfect for remote workers or freelancers with non-Spanish clients.
Eligibility:
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Remote work contract or freelance clients outside Spain
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Monthly income of at least €2,650
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University degree or 3+ years of work experience
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Clean background and medical clearance
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Private Spanish health insurance
✅ Visa is valid for 3 years, renewable
✅ You can bring family and even access residency options
🚀 4. Entrepreneur/Startup Visa
Ideal for Chinese tech founders or startup investors.
Requirements:
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Innovative business plan (approved by ENISA or similar body)
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Technical qualifications or experience
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Funds to support yourself and the business
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No criminal record, full insurance
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Apostilled Chinese documents + official translations
✅ Visa allows you to work and operate the business in Spain
📌 Often eligible for fast-track processing
🛋️ 5. Non-Lucrative Visa
Best for:
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Chinese retirees
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Financially independent individuals
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Families relocating without working
Requirements:
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Stable income: at least €2,400/month (plus €600 per dependent)
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Health insurance from Spanish or international provider
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Proof of accommodation in Spain
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Apostilled background and medical certificates
❌ Work is not allowed — this is a stay-only visa.
💡 Some use it as a first step before switching to other permits.
👨👩👧 6. Family Reunification Visa
Chinese family members of legal Spanish residents can apply to join them under this visa.
Eligible relatives:
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Spouse or civil partner
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Children under 18
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Parents (under special circumstances)
Requirements:
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Spanish resident must hold valid residence
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Proof of relationship (apostilled and translated)
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Proof of housing and financial capacity
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Background checks
✅ Family members receive residence cards and access to Spain’s public services.
📄 Required Documents (Typical)
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Chinese passport | Valid at least 12 months |
| Application form | Provided by Spanish consulate |
| Biometric photos | Recent and clear |
| Apostilled police clearance | Issued by Chinese authorities |
| Apostilled medical certificate | Declaring no serious illness |
| Proof of income or sponsorship | Based on visa type |
| Private health insurance | Full coverage required |
| Accommodation | Hotel, rental, or host invitation letter |
| Translations | Sworn translation into Spanish required |
✅ We assist with apostille, translation, formatting, and submission.
💰 Financial Requirements by Visa Type
| Visa Type | Monthly Income Required |
|---|---|
| Student Visa | €600–€700 |
| Non-Lucrative Visa | €2,400+ (+ €600 per dependent) |
| Digital Nomad Visa | €2,650+ |
| Family Reunification | Based on Spain’s minimum wage |
| Entrepreneur Visa | Business plan + living expenses |
📌 All financial sources must be verifiable and legal, even if funds are in China.
❌ Common Pitfalls for Chinese Applicants
| Mistake | Result |
|---|---|
| Not legalizing Chinese documents | Rejection or delay |
| Submitting non-official translations | Application denied |
| Choosing the wrong visa category | You may not qualify later |
| Using a tourist visa to “switch” in Spain | Not permitted for many visa types |
| Underestimating processing time | Missed deadlines or school term start |
✅ Borderless Lawyers ensures full compliance and faster processing.
👩⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Helps Chinese Applicants
✔️ Help in English, Spanish, and Mandarin
✔️ Document preparation (apostille, sworn translation, formatting)
✔️ Visa selection strategy tailored to your goals
✔️ Application filing and consulate coordination
✔️ Guidance through Spain’s NIE and TIE registration
✔️ Full remote handling with Power of Attorney if needed
📌 We work with professionals, students, families, and retirees across China — including those already in Europe or the Middle East.
📞 Call to Action
Confused about which visa to apply for?
Let our experienced legal team guide you through every requirement — and secure your move to Spain, hassle-free.