Spain Student Visa >> Your 2025 Guide to Studying Abroad in Spain

To study in Spain, you must navigate the Spain Student Visa process. Significant changes to this program mean that you’ll need to understand how your choice of study program in Spain impacts your visa.

2025 Spain Student Visa Changes

In 2025, the Spanish government announced significant changes to the Spanish Student Visa and associated Job Seeker program. Our Spanish immigration lawyer partner has this guidance.

“The major change is to studies over 6 months. The government has established two streams: Spanish language studies and other tertiary studies, each with distinct requirements and rights. Please make sure you choose the option that gives you the right options!”

Understanding Spain Student Visa Types

Before diving into the application process, it’s crucial to understand the different types of Spanish student visas. The one you choose depends on the course of study and the duration of that course.

Long-term Student Visa (Type D) / Visado Nacional de Estudios

This is the right Spanish student visa if you’re studying at a university, language school, or official institution for longer programs (e.g., degree programs, Master’s degree, Erasmus, or extended language studies)

“This is where your course makes a huge difference. If you are doing a Spanish language course, you have much tighter restrictions. Other approved tertiary studies have many more rights and opportunities.” Raquel Moreno (LLB) – Spanish Student Visa Immigration Lawyer

	Spanish Language Courses	University Degrees / Higher Education
Spain Study Visa Type	Type D Student Visa	Type D Student Visa
Eligible Institutions	Instituto Cervantes–accredited language schools	Recognised universities, official degree programs, and recognised training programs
Weekly Course Load	≥ 20 hrs/week	≥ 20 hrs/week
Study Method	Full time, In Person Only	Full time, In Person Only
Max Duration	2 years (initial + one renewal)	The course length
Initial Residence Permit Duration	1 Year	The course length
Application Location	Must apply at your home country’s consulate	In Spain or at your home country’s consulate
Renewals	Single one-year renewal showing DELE/SIELE progress	Unlimited annual renewals with academic progress.
Work Rights	Up to 20 hrs/week	Up to 30 hrs/week
Post‑Study Stay	❌ No post-study job-seeking extension (Job Seeker) after language courses	✅ 1-year stay allowed to seek work or start a business through the Job Seeker program for degree-level courses.
Switching Visas in Spain	❌ Not eligible	✅ Eligible after the first year of studies and through the Job Seeker program
Family Reunification	❌ Not eligible	✅ Spouse/partner, and dependent children.
Financial Means Required	Minimum 100% IPREM (€600/month of study)	Minimum 100% IPREM (€600/month of study)
Permanent Residency and Citizenship	No direct pathway. Time doesn’t count.	No direct pathway. Time doesn’t count, but the Job Seeker Permit makes this easier.

Short-term Student Visa (Type C) Study Course less than 90 days

For a short course lasting under 90 days, your visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens of 60 countries don’t need a visa for short study visits. Eligible nationalities include Argentina, Australia, Mexico, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Citizens of all other countries must apply for a SCHENGEN Study Type C Visa.

Note: If you need to extend your short study course, you can apply for another 90 days to complete the course.

Job Seeker Visa (Post-Study Visa)

“The Job Seeker Program is one of the big changes in 2025. Remember that only teritary studies like a University Degree now qualify. If you are studying a Spanish Languiage course you can;t apply for this program.” Raquel Moreno (LLB) – Spanish Student Visa Immigration Lawyer

The Job Seeker residence permit isn’t a study visa or a work visa, and it has very specific requirements.

• You have completed an undergraduate degree or higher in Spain
• You are legally living in Spain currently on a Spain Study Visa
• You apply within 90 days of the completion of your studies

The Job Seeker Visa lets you live in Spain for one year after completing your studies. This gives you time to find a job, start a business, or explore other legal options for immigrating to Spain with this visa. It is an amazing option if you want to live in Spain after your studies.

Read More >> Spanish Work Visa Guide

You can use the Registro de Universidades, Centros y Títulos (RUCT) to determine if your chosen course qualifies you for this.

Spain Student Visa Application Requirements

The required documents will vary depending on your specific circumstances and the duration of your course. The exact process can also vary depending on where you apply.

Please consult your Spanish Immigration Lawyer to ensure you have everything ready for your appointment. Here are some of the required documents you may need for your application:

Document	Comments
Admission Letter	This must be for a recognized course of study in Spain. It is not enough to have applied to the course; you’ll need an official offer of a place to study. Plus, the educational institution must be authorized by the Spanish government for a Spain student visa.
Proof of Sufficient Funds	From a Spanish private health insurance provider. Note: Not all policies qualify. Use the link to select the best medical insurance for your visa application.
Private Health Insurance	You’ll need Spanish private health insurance for residency in Spain. There are very specific requirements that your certificate of cover must have.
Certificate of Criminal Record	Issued no more than three months before the application.
Medical Certificate	Shows you don’t suffer from any diseases that could pose serious public health risks under international health regulations. These are diseases like Ebola or Nile Fever
Two Completed Visa Application Forms	Download the online application form.
Valid Passport	This must have at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay.
Two Recent Passport-sized Photos	Standard passport photographs
Visa Application Fee Payment Receipt	Around €60- €160, depending on your nationality
Another form of ID	E.g., Driver’s license or national ID card.

The Spain Student Visa Application Process for US Students

You can apply for your Spanish Student Visa in Spain or from the US. If you apply from the US, you’ll use the nearest Spanish consulate or embassy.

To apply from within Spain, you can enter the country on a Schengen tourist visa, find and be accepted onto a course of study, and apply for your student visa.

Advice from our Spanish immigration lawyer partner:

“If you apply in Spain on a tourist visa, there is a time restriction. You must apply within 60 days of entering the Schengen region, so you’ll have at least 30 days left on your visa. However, you can stay in Spain until your application is completed, even if it extends past the 90-day limit.” Raquel Moreno (LLB) – Spanish Student Visa Immigration Lawyer

You can apply personally. However, we recommend using a Spanish immigration lawyer to apply on your behalf, as the application process is complex. Up-to-date specialist knowledge makes it much more likely that you will end up studying in Spain!

The immigration department will reject or delay applications that are incorrect. If this happens, you will lose your application fee.

The Spanish immigration department clearly states:

“We cannot overstate the importance of paying the utmost attention to filling out the application and the accompanying information.  INCOMPLETE OR INCORRECT APPLICATIONS WILL BE REJECTED.”

Spanish Immigration Department

Note: Certain documents will need translation and certification. Most Spanish consulates now require a medical certificate and a background check with both Spanish translations and Apostille authentication.

Having decided where you will apply, here are the steps to apply for your Spain student visa:

1.     Get Admitted
Secure admission to a Spanish educational institution and obtain an official acceptance letter.

2.     Gather Documents
Collect all required documents listed above.

3.     Schedule an Appointment
If applying from the US, contact the Spanish Embassy or Consulate nearest you to schedule a visa application appointment.
From within Spain, schedule an appointment at the nearest immigration office; your immigration lawyer should manage this for you.

4.     Submit Your Application
Attend your appointment and submit your completed application along with all required documents.

5.     Pay the Fee
The student visa fee for US citizens is €132 (approximately $145 at the time of writing).

6.     Wait for Processing
Visa processing typically takes 1-3 months, but can sometimes be completed in as little as 15 days.

Expert Tips for a Successful Spain Student Visa Application

Here are some tips from our Spanish Immigration Lawyer partners to ensure a smooth application.

Expert Tip	Reason
Apply Early	Begin your application process at least 2-3 months before your intended travel date.
Double-Check Everything	Ensure all your documents are accurate, complete, and meet the specific requirements of the Spanish consulate where you’re applying.
Prepare for Your Interview	Be ready to clearly articulate your study plans and intentions for your time in Spain.
Learn Basic Spanish	While not a requirement, showing some Spanish language skills can strengthen your application.
Have a Backup Plan	In case of unexpected delays, have a contingency plan in place for your travel and study arrangements.

“When submitting your student visa application, the course should start within a maximum of 90 days.” Raquel Moreno (LLB) – Spanish Student Visa Immigration Lawyer

Proving Financial Sufficiency for Your 2025 Spain Student Visa

One of the most crucial aspects of your visa application is demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies in Spain. Be prepared to show that you can cover both your tuition fees and living expenses. You can prove this through:

• Bank statements showing a minimum balance
  In 2025, you’ll need at least €600 per month of study, but each Spanish consulate applies the guidelines differently. The amount is lower if you can show proof of accommodation or support, like a bursary.
• Financial aid or scholarship award letters
• A notarized letter from parents or guardians guaranteeing financial support
• A letter from your university confirming any financial assistance

Our Spain Immigration Lawyer partner explains:

“The student visa is always issued for one year. Every year, the permit has to be renewed, and, in all renewals, he or she will have to show 100% of the IPREM.”

Raquel Moreno, BeGlobal Attorneys

Which Courses Meet the Spain Student Visa Requirements?

The big changes in 2025 are how the course you choose impacts your requirements and rights under a Spanish Study Visa (see the section above). This means that choosing an approved course may not meet your requirements; selecting the right course type is also very important.

A wide range of areas meet the requirements to apply for a student visa in Spain. Here are some examples.

• Spanish Language Courses (Restricted Rights)
  The most common course type for a Spanish Student Visa. The Cervantes Institute must accredit all Spanish language courses.
• Other language courses (Restricted Rights)
• Professional Training Courses (Restricted Rights)
• Industry Specific Training (Restricted Rights)
  Like sporting or artistic training
• Tertiary Education (Expanded Rights)
  Including undergraduate, master’s, and PhD level studies

Important Note
The course must be full-time to qualify for student visas. The Spanish authorities define full-time as a course of study lasting at least 20 hours per week. You must physically attend the course in Spain; you cannot study online.

Popular programs for international students include:

• Spanish Language and Culture
• Business and Economics
• Engineering and Technology
• Arts and Humanities
• Mediterranean Studies

Many universities offer courses in English, but studying in Spanish can greatly enhance your cultural immersion and language skills.

Tertiary Education: At What Level Can I Study with a Spain Student Visa?

Education Level	Spanish	US Equivalent	UK Equivalent
Post-secondary Vocational	Escuela Técnica/FP	Trade School	Vocational College
Undergraduate (General)	Universidad (Grado)	College/University (Undergraduate)	University (Undergraduate)
Undergraduate Diploma/Certificate	Título de Técnico Superior	Associate’s Degree	Foundation Degree/Certificate
Undergraduate Degree (First)	Título de Licenciatura	Bachelor’s Degree (BA, BS)	Bachelor’s Degree (BA, BSc)
Honors Degree	Licenciatura con Honores	N/A (Honors programs within Bachelor’s)	Bachelor’s Degree with Honors (BA Hons, BSc Hons)
Postgraduate Diploma	Diploma de Postgrado	Graduate Certificate/Diploma	Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
Master’s Degree	Título de Máster	Master’s Degree (MA, MS)	Master’s Degree (MA, MSc)
Integrated Master’s Degree	Máster Integrado	N/A (Separate Bachelor’s/Master’s)	Integrated Master’s (MEng, MMath)
Doctorate (PhD)	Doctorado	Doctorate (PhD)	Doctorate (PhD, DPhil)
Professional Doctorate	Doctorado Profesional	Professional Doctorate (JD, MD)	Professional Doctorate (EdD, DBA)
Postdoctoral Research	Investigación Postdoctoral	Postdoctoral Research	Postdoctoral Research

Which Institutions Meet the Spanish Student Visa Requirements?

The institution and course you choose must be on the approved list of the Registro de Universidades, Centros y Títulos (RUCT). You can check RUCT’s website to see if the institution and course you wish to take are eligible. You must be accepted into one of these education or training programs to apply for your student visa in Spain. You are not limited to universities; public and private educational institutions are also accepted.

This table shows the programs that qualify for a Spain Student Visa:

Program	Reason
Study with an approved Spanish education facility	Eligible courses include Spanish language courses and undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs.
Research with an authorized institution	These include Spanish Universities, public and private research institutes, and the Spanish Council for Scientific Research centers.
Unpaid training	Offered by a company or professional training center.
Student mobility programs	Including student exchange and the Erasmus program.
Unpaid internships	And in limited cases, paid internships.
Unpaid volunteer work
Language and Culture Assistants program	These programs offer paid work to citizens of some countries. You’ll help teachers in the classroom with English language instruction.

READ ALSO >> Spanish University Guide for International Students

What Health Insurance is Required for a Spanish Study Visa in 2025?

The Spanish government has strict requirements for your Spanish private health insurance:

1.     Comprehensive Coverage
The health insurance policy must offer comprehensive coverage. It should cover any medical services you may need while in Spain, including, but not limited to, general doctor visits, emergency services, hospitalization, and surgical procedures.

2.     Validity
The policy must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Spain as defined by your visa. If you plan to extend your stay, you should ensure that your health insurance is extended accordingly.

3.     No Deductibles or Co-Pays
Your health insurance should not have deductibles or co-pays. This means you should not have to pay anything out of pocket to receive medical services covered by your policy.

Tip: See Spanish Student Visa Private Healthcare quotes for excellent specialized service.

After Arrival: Student Residence Card (TIE)

Once you arrive in Spain with your student visa, you must apply for a student residence card (Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero or TIE) within one month. This card is crucial for your legal stay in Spain beyond the initial entry period.

READ ALSO >> Spain TIE Card, NIE Number Explained

Cost of Living and Studying in Spain

While costs can vary depending on the city and lifestyle, here’s a general overview of expenses:

• Tuition fees: €750 to €2,500 per year at public universities, higher for private institutions
• Accommodation: €300 to €600 per month
• Food: €200 to €300 per month
• Transportation: €30 to €60 per month
• Books and supplies: €100 to €200 per semester
• Health insurance: €50 to €100 per month

Total estimated monthly cost: €900 to €1,500

Check out our customizable Spanish Cost-Of-Living Calculator for more details.

Family Reunification on a Spanish Student Visa

You can include some people on some student visas in Spain. Only some study options allow you to include family members – remember, Spanish Language courses do not allow this.

Which Family Members Can You Include?

• Your Spouse or De Facto Partner
• Dependent Children
• Other Dependent Family Members (but only in exceptional circumstances)

What Do You Need To Add Family Members To Your Application

1. A tertiary study course that allows you to include family members.
2. Evidence that you can financially support all dependents.
3. Health insurance in Spain for each family member.
4. Each family member must apply for their residence card. Remember that the maximum stay is the same as the primary visa holder.

Our Immigration Lawyer partner makes an important point:

“The spouse of a student visa holder cannot work for a Spanish company or be self-employed (autónomo). However, the spouse is allowed to work remotely for a non-Spanish company or non-Spanish clients.” – Raquel Moreno, BeGlobal Attorneys

Raquel Moreno, BeGlobal Attorneys

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

US students often face several challenges when applying for a Spain student visa. Here are some tips that we’ve gathered from our time working with US students applying to study in Spain.

1. Language Barrier
   While many Spanish officials speak English, some documents may be in Spanish.
   Tip: Use certified translation services for important documents.
2. Proof of Funds
   Demonstrating sufficient financial resources can be tricky.
   Tip: Start saving early and consider multiple funding sources, including scholarships and family support.
3. Health Insurance Requirements
   Spain has specific health coverage requirements.
   Tip: Research Spanish-approved insurance providers or check if your US insurance offers international coverage.
4. Visa Processing Delays
   Unexpected delays can disrupt travel plans.
   Tip: Apply as early as possible and maintain flexible travel arrangements.
5. Cultural Adjustment
   Adapting to Spanish culture and academic systems can be a challenging experience.
   Tip: Participate in pre-departure orientations and connect with current international students in Spain.

Are you a student dreaming of studying abroad in Spain? You’re not alone! Spain’s rich culture, world-class universities, and vibrant lifestyle make it an attractive destination for American and other international students.

According to the Institute of International Education’s Open Doors Report, Spain consistently ranks as one of the top five study-abroad destinations for US students. Over 32,000 Americans studied there in the 2018-2019 academic year (the last full year before the pandemic).

Spain Study Visa >> Next Steps

Obtaining a Spain student visa may seem daunting, but with proper preparation and understanding of the process, you can successfully apply. Remember to start early, gather all necessary documents, and carefully follow the guidelines provided by the Spanish consulate. Get Help from an outstanding Spanish immigration lawyer who has strong experience in dealing with student visa applications.

Securing your student visa opens the door to an enriching educational experience in one of Europe’s most vibrant countries. From world-class universities to rich cultural experiences, studying in Spain offers a unique opportunity for personal and academic growth.

International students love studying in Spain. We know people who have used a Spanish student visa to study everything from Starter Spanish to an MBA. ¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!) with your Spain student visa application and your upcoming studies in Spain!

Additional Resources:

• Spanish Ministry of Education
• US Department of State – Spain Travel Information
• Expert Spanish Student Visa Lawyer

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Frequently Asked Questions >> The Spain Student Visa