If you're planning to come to Spain to study in 2025, it's important to understand the recent changes introduced by the reform of the immigration regulation. In this article, we explain who can apply for a stay for studies, what types of training are permitted, the updated requirements, and what's new in the latest legislation.

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Who can apply for a stay for studies?

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This authorization is intended for foreign nationals who wish to stay in Spain for more than 90 calendar days to pursue full-time studies at officially recognized institutions. The educational institutions must be accredited at the national or regional level and registered in the State Registry of Non-University Educational Centers or the corresponding official registries.

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The training can be conducted in person or in a blended format, as long as at least 50% of the content is delivered in person.

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What types of studies are valid?

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According to the new regulation, the following types of training allow you to apply for a stay authorization:

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• Foreign language assistants in officially registered educational centers in Spain.
• Language courses (Spanish or co-official languages) at centers accredited by the Cervantes Institute or equivalent entities, as long as the language is not the applicant’s native or official language in their country of origin.
• Preparatory courses to access specialized health training.
• Training to obtain technical or professional certifications, in accordance with the decisions of the competent authorities.
• Full training programs (not modular or partial) leading to the issuance of professional certificates.
• Higher education studies: bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, doctorates, advanced vocational training, among others.

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Requirements to apply for a stay

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To apply for this authorization in 2025, you must present:

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• A valid passport.
• An admission letter from the educational institution.
• Proof of tuition payment (or a commitment to pay if payment is not yet possible).
• Proof of sufficient financial means (minimum 100% of the IPREM).
• Private health insurance valid in Spain.
• Medical certificate proving good health.
• Criminal record certificate (if applicable).
• Be at least 18 years old.

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Main features of the authorization

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• Where to apply: It can be processed from outside Spain (up to 2 months before the start of studies) or within the country (within the first 30 days of arrival).
• Duration: If you are pursuing higher education, the authorization can cover the entire duration of the program.
• Work: You are allowed to work up to 30 hours per week, provided the activity is compatible with your studies.
• Family members: Family members may accompany you if you can prove sufficient financial means and suitable accommodation, although they are not allowed to work.
• TIE: If the stay exceeds 6 months, you must apply for the Foreigner Identity Card (TIE) within one month.

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When can the authorization be denied or revoked?

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It can be denied or revoked if:

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• Abandonment, fraud, or non-compliance with the requirements is detected.
• The educational institution is not properly authorized or recognized.
• The required documents are not submitted on time or the renewal is not carried out properly.

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Key changes in 2025

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The instruction published on June 20, 2025, introduces several important improvements:

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• Recognition of language studies as higher education, as long as they are carried out in person and the language is different from the applicant’s native or official language in their country of origin.
• More flexible tuition payment: Payment in installments, justified exemption, or a commitment to pay is allowed if the school’s schedule does not match the application deadlines.
• Duration aligned with the academic calendar: You may request that the authorization only cover the exact duration of the course, without including the month prior or the 15 days after.
• Extensions: If your initial authorization is less than 6 months and the extension exceeds that period, you must provide a new criminal record certificate if you are of legal age.

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Need help with your study stay application?

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At Entre Trámites, we specialize in immigration and international education. We assist you throughout the entire process—from preparing your documents to obtaining your visa or permit. We also handle extensions, family reunification, and requests to work while studying.

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📞 Book your consultation today and start your academic journey in Spain with total peace of mind.