In brief
- Who it is for
- Non-EU students admitted to a recognised or authorised centre in Spain for a full-time programme, and their family members in the case of higher education.
- Where to apply
- At the Spanish consulate for your place of residence. For higher education, if you are an adult and already lawfully in Spain, also at the Immigration Office (Oficina de Extranjería), within the advance periods set by the rules.
- Duration
- The length of the course: for higher education, its full official duration; in other cases, up to one year, which may be extended depending on the type of studies.
- Fees
- We quote them in the first consultation (€40), with the option to pay in instalments.
Requirements
- Admission to a recognised or authorised centre in Spain, with enrolment fees paid where applicable; for higher and upper-secondary education, on a full-time programme.
- Financial means: 100% of the monthly IPREM, unless your accommodation is already paid; for family members, an extra 75% for the first and 50% for each additional one.
- Health insurance with an insurer authorised to operate in Spain, with cover similar to that of the Spanish National Health System.
- If you are an adult and the stay exceeds six months, no criminal record in the countries where you have lived in the last five years.
- A medical certificate and a passport valid for at least one year.
- Applying at least two months before the course starts, unless there are justified reasons.
- Language courses only qualify if they are taught in person at an official language school (escuela oficial de idiomas) or a centre accredited by the Instituto Cervantes or an equivalent body.
How we help you
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We study your case
We check that the centre and the programme meet the requirements (recognition, full-time study and in-person teaching) and how to prove your financial means.
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We prepare your application
We list every document (admission, enrolment, means, insurance, medical and criminal record certificates), with sworn translations and apostilles, and review everything before it is filed.
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Filing the application
We help you book the consulate appointment or, if you are in Spain and eligible, we file the application at the Immigration Office, and follow it until a decision is issued.
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Arrival and beyond
We guide you in applying for your foreigner identity card (TIE) within a month of arrival, if your stay exceeds six months, and later with extensions, family members and the move to a residence and work permit.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work while I study?
If you are in higher education, yes: the permit allows you to work as an employee or self-employed without any further procedure, provided it is compatible with your studies and, as a rule, up to 30 hours a week. In other cases a work authorisation must be requested.
Can my family come with me?
Only if you are in higher education or specialised health training. Your spouse or partner, your minor children and adult children who need support due to disability or illness may join you, with proof of means and insurance. Family members may not work during the stay.
What can I do when I finish my studies?
Once you obtain your qualification, you can generally move to a residence and work permit without a visa, from two months before to three months after your stay ends or you obtain the qualification; for employment, the national employment situation test does not apply. With a bachelor's degree or higher, you may also request up to 24 months to look for work or start a business.