British Students May Soon Be Able to Remain in Spain Post-Graduation

Bachelor, master’s, and doctorate students from third countries, including here from the United Kingdom, will all be eligible to stay in Spain post-graduation under the new University System Law (LOSU) proposed by the Spanish Ministry of Universities, in a bid to make the country more attractive for foreign students.

At the same time, the new law intends to make first residence permits for students valid for the whole period of studies, unlike now, when students need to renew them every year.

“Among the plans for the new University System Law (LOSU) is that the residence permit to study in Spain will no longer have to be requested every year, as is the case now, and will instead be extended for the duration of studies,” the Minister of Universities, Joan Subirats, told El Pais.

Currently, students who wish to stay in Spain upon graduation, including here British nationals, are eligible to apply for a post-study work visa to remain in the country for a year to look for a job. Yet, throughout this period of time, they are not permitted to work, which makes it financially hard for them to remain in Spain under such conditions.

“Additionally, we have to find ways to retain that talent that we have trained so they can keep their residence status and look for work for two years,” the Minister added.

In order for the LOSU law to become effective, the same should be approved by the parliament. Once that happens, the law is excepted to start applying by next year.