Documentation, accommodation, and local life — there are many aspects to consider when planning to study in Barcelona. This guide, created by Johan Cruyff Institute and BarcelonaStudents, provides all the essential information needed to turn that experience into reality
Barcelona has become one of the top destinations for international students. According to TBS Education, during the 2024/2025 academic year, more than 14,000 students from around the world chose Catalonia for their higher education. The city stands out for its high-quality education and multicultural environment, which fosters both academic and personal exchange.
In addition to this, Barcelona is known for its strong sports tradition. From the transformative 1992 Olympic Games to FC Barcelona — one of the world’s most important football clubs — the city offers an ideal setting for training in sport management, sport marketing, and football business. Johan Cruyff Institute’s programs combine the latest trends in the sports industry with practice-based learning.
Together with Johan Cruyff Institute, BarcelonaStudents supports students step by step to ensure their arrival in the city is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. In this post, you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions international students have before landing in Barcelona.
Before you travel: what you shouldn’t forget
What documents do I need to have ready before traveling to Barcelona to study?
To prepare for your trip, make sure you have:
- A valid passport
- An official admission letter from Johan Cruyff Institute or another institution
- Proof of financial means
- International health insurance
- In some cases, proof of accommodation and a criminal background check
How far in advance should I start planning my arrival?
We recommend starting the process 3 to 5 months before the beginning of the course. Applying for a visa, booking accommodation, purchasing flights, and gathering required documents can take time — it’s best to avoid last-minute stress.
Is it difficult to get a student visa?
It’s not difficult, but it does require careful planning. Once you have your admission letter, you’ll need to make an appointment at the Spanish consulate or embassy in your country and submit all the required documents.
These usually include: a criminal background check from your home country, a health insurance policy that covers your entire stay, proof of accommodation (i.e., evidence that you already have a place to live upon arrival), and a medical certificate confirming that you’re in good health, among others.
It’s important to note that requirements may vary depending on your country, so it’s essential to check directly with the Spanish embassy or consulate in your country for the specific requirements.
Also, documents such as the background check, medical certificate, and any others issued in your home country must be apostilled (if your country is part of the Hague Convention) or otherwise legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Spanish embassy or consulate in your country.
Finally, remember that all documents not in Spanish must be officially translated into Spanish by a sworn translator. The visa process can take between 3 and 6 weeks, depending on your country and the time of year.
Do I need the admission letter to start the immigration process?
Yes. The acceptance letter from Johan Cruyff Institute or any other institution is essential to begin your student visa application process.
Park Guëll, designed by Antoni Gaudi
Accommodation: Find Your New Home
How much does it cost to rent a room or apartment in Barcelona?
- Room in a shared flat: €450–700/month
- Studio apartment: €750–1,200/month
Prices vary depending on the area, size, and type of accommodation.
Which neighborhoods are safest or most convenient for students?
Some ideal neighborhoods for students due to their safety, connections, and student-friendly vibe include:
- Eixample (Left and Right): Very central and safe. Slightly more expensive, but ideal for students seeking comfort and security.
- Gràcia: A young, bohemian, and very safe area. Perfect for students looking for a local and community-oriented atmosphere.
- Sarrià – Sant Gervasi: A quiet, residential area. More expensive, but highly valued by families and international students.
- Les Corts: Residential and safe.
- Poblenou: A great option if you want to live near the sea in a modern, safe neighborhood with a local feel.
Is it risky to sign a rental contract without visiting the apartment?
It can be if not done with proper guarantees. That’s why BarcelonaStudents manages the entire process — from your home country to your move-in day. We provide an accommodation letter for your visa, prepare contracts, coordinate your arrival, and support you throughout your stay. It’s also essential to ensure your accommodation allows empadronamiento (local registration), a requirement for getting your TIE (foreign identity card) and completing many legal procedures in Spain.
What is empadronamiento?
Empadronamiento is the registration process that declares your place of residence at the local city hall. It’s a fundamental step for students or anyone living in Barcelona for more than six months. It gives you access to public services, allows you to apply for a NIE/TIE, and helps with visa renewals.
To register, you’ll need to book an appointment at a Citizen Services Office (OAC) and bring your passport along with a document proving your address, such as a rental contract.
Empadronamiento is one of the first steps you should take upon arrival, as it helps you integrate and manage other legal procedures while living in Barcelona.
Studies and University
Is it hard to get accepted into a university in Barcelona as an international student?
Not necessarily. If you meet the academic requirements and demonstrate motivation, your chances are good. At Johan Cruyff Institute, professional and personal experience is also highly valued in addition to academic qualifications.
What’s the difference between public and private universities?
Private universities like Johan Cruyff Institute usually offer more specialized, flexible programs with a practical and international focus. Public universities are more affordable but often have less personalized attention and more bureaucratic processes.
Do I need to validate (homologate) my high school or university degree?
It depends on the program:
- For master’s or postgraduate degrees at private institutions, degree validation is usually not required. An official translation and legalization (via the Hague Apostille or your country’s Ministry of Education and the Spanish embassy) is often sufficient.
- For undergraduate degrees, validation is usually required. However, many universities allow you to start the program as long as you can show proof that the validation process has been initiated.
What level of Spanish (or Catalan) do I need? Can I study in English?
Most programs at Johan Cruyff Institute are taught in English, though there are also options in Spanish. You don’t need to speak Catalan, but learning some Spanish will be very helpful for daily life. Other public and private universities also offer programs in English, especially in fields like engineering, technology, and business.
Arrival, Insurance & Health
What procedures must I complete upon arriving in Barcelona?
During your first weeks in the city, you should:
- Register your address (empadronamiento). If you arrange housing through BarcelonaStudents, they’ll book your appointment and guide you through the process.
- Activate or purchase your private health insurance, if you haven’t already done so from your home country.
- Apply for your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) or TIE (Foreigner Identity Card).
It’s common to confuse the NIE with the TIE, but they’re different:
- The NIE is a unique number used to identify foreigners in Spain for legal, tax, and administrative purposes. It’s assigned to both EU and non-EU citizens and appears on all official documents.
- The TIE is a physical card issued only to non-EU citizens. It includes your photo, personal information, and NIE number. It serves as proof of your legal residency status in Spain.
While the NIE is just a number, the TIE is the document that contains and certifies it — and must be carried with you as official ID.
Open a Spanish bank account, which makes payments and legal procedures easier.
Is health insurance mandatory? What kind do I need?
Yes, it’s mandatory. You must have insurance with no copayments, no waiting periods, and no coverage limits if you’re an international student. If you applied for a visa from your country, you likely already had to obtain one. If not, or if you’re already in Spain and need insurance to apply for a visa, renew your permit, or complete residency paperwork, BarcelonaStudents can help you purchase a policy that is 100% compliant with immigration regulations.
Can I work while studying? How many hours are allowed?
Yes, as an international student, you can work while studying, under certain conditions. If you hold a student visa, you can work up to 30 hours per week, as long as the job is compatible with your class schedule.
How do I find part-time work as a student?
The pedagogical model at Johan Cruyff Institute is highly focused on professional development.
The programs include elective courses with external internships. These internships allow you to gain experience, improve your skills, and, above all, build relationships to create a network of contacts that will be very useful in your professional career.
You can apply for the offers posted on the virtual classroom, or you can look for the company that interests you the most yourself. We will guide you through the process to ensure you have the best experience.
Studying in Barcelona: a transformative experience
Studying at Johan Cruyff Institute is not just an investment in your education — it’s a life-changing experience. Barcelona is a multicultural, vibrant city full of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
If you need help with your visa, housing, insurance, or any other procedure, don’t hesitate to contact BarcelonaStudents. If you’re a Johan Cruyff Institute student, you can get a 5% discount on all services.
