Your Program Specialist will work with you one-on-one to gather all the required information we need from you to communicate with the Spanish Consulates to ensure your visa process is incredibly smooth and stress-free. We will personalize the timeline specifically for you, and for anything we cannot take care of on our own for legal reasons (i.e., getting fingerprinted), we will walk you through how to handle it or direct you to a partner company that will take care of it for you.
For the purposes of applying for your visa to Spain, we highly recommend applying for the visa from your home country. For example, if you are American, we recommend you apply inside of the US, and if you are Canadian, we recommend you apply inside of Canada.
If you apply within your home country, we will:
● Schedule and/or confirm your visa appointment with the Spanish Consulate if allowed, or guide you through the process depending on Consular requirements for visa applicants.
● Officially translate all required documents.
If you are applying for a visa to our program and are currently in Spain finishing up another program, we will direct you to one of our vetted and trusted immigration lawyers in Spain to help you renew your long-term residency in Spain without having to return home for a visa.
IMPORTANT: If you are applying for a visa from a country that is not your home country or Spain (i.e., an American living in South Korea applying for a Spanish Visa while in South Korea), we will not assist with the visa process and will direct you to the Spanish Consulate in that area to coordinate your visa process, visa appointment, and translation services. However, you are, of course, able to join the program, receive a placement, and receive all program benefits and access to excursions, but we will not be responsible for the visa process if it is in a country that is not your home country.
What We Will Not Do for the Visa Process
If you have lived in another country for more than six consecutive months in the last five years, the Spanish Consulate requires that you submit a criminal background check from that country, along with its Apostille or legalization stamp. If the country is a Member State of the Hague Convention, we will assist with your criminal background check and accompanying Apostille, as well as translations if necessary.
If the country is not a Member State of the Hague Convention (such as China), we are unable to assist with the international criminal background check process.
By no means does this signify you cannot join the program. We would be thrilled for you to join our program and receive a teaching placement in Spain if you require an international criminal background check from a country that is not a Member State of the Hague Convention. We simply wish to be transparent that we are unable to assist with the international processes of countries that are not members of the Hague Convention.
What Is a Visa & Why Do I Need One?
[1] A visa is your key to legally living and working abroad. For those looking to teach English overseas, it’s an important document that grants you permission to enter, stay, and work in a foreign country. Think of it as your official ticket to embark on an exciting adventure teaching abroad. Without a proper visa, you could face serious legal issues or even deportation.
When you’re planning to teach English abroad, the type of visa you’ll need depends on your destination and the length of your stay. For instance, if you’re headed to Spain for a teaching position, you’ll likely require a work visa rather than a tourist visa. This document allows you to work legally as an English teacher abroad, but it also opens doors to immersing yourself in a new culture, mastering a foreign language, and gaining invaluable international experience.
Visa Applications Can Be Confusing. Follow This Guide to Streamline the Process of Applying for a Visa to Teach English Overseas
We’ve broken down the visa process into manageable steps to help you on your way to that dream job teaching English abroad. First, research the specific VISA requirements for your chosen country. Each nation has its own set of rules and regulations. For Spain, you’ll typically need to apply for a long-term visa if you plan to stay more than 90 days.
Next, gather all necessary documents. These usually include:
● A valid passport
● Proof of employment (your teaching contract)
● Proof of accommodation
● Health insurance
● Criminal background check
● Proof of financial means
Then, schedule an appointment with the Spanish embassy or consulate in your home country. Be prepared to submit your application and supporting documents and pay any required fees.
After submission, patience is key. Processing times vary, but it’s wise to apply at least 2-3 months before your planned departure. Requirements can change, so always check the official Spanish embassy website for the most up-to-date information.
While this process might seem overwhelming, the reward of teaching English in Spain – immersing yourself in the rich culture, improving your Spanish, and gaining valuable teaching experience – makes it all worthwhile.
The Basic Qualifications Teachers Need to Have Before Applying for a VISA
Before you dive into the visa application process for teaching English abroad, check if you meet the basic qualifications. These requirements increase your chances of securing a visa but also set you up for success in your teaching position.
First and foremost, most countries, including Spain, require English teachers to hold a bachelor’s degree. While the field of study isn’t always specified, having a degree in education, English, or a related subject can be advantageous. Next, a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification is often mandatory. This qualification equips you with the necessary skills to teach English effectively to non-native speakers. Many programs offer online or in-person courses ranging from 120 to 170 hours.
Proficiency in the English language is, of course, a must. If you’re not a native English speaker, you might need to prove your language skills through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Some countries also have age restrictions or prefer teachers within a certain age range. In Spain, for instance, many programs are geared towards teachers between 21 and 35 years old.
Let RVF International Help You With the VISA Process
Don’t let visa complications hold you back from your dream of teaching overseas. Reach out to RVF International today, and let’s start your journey to becoming an English teacher abroad. We’re ready to answer your questions, address your concerns, and set you on the path to success in Spain.
