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In 2025, Spain introduced significant changes to the visa application process for international students, largely driven by the new Immigration Regulation introduced
through Royal Decree 1155/2024 which came into effect on 20th May 2025. These reforms aimed to tighten the procedures, creating a more structured and time-sensitive system. If you are planning to apply for a Spain student visa in 2026, here’s what you need to know.
One of the biggest adjustments made in the new immigration regulations was the ability to apply for a visa from within Spain. While this is still an option for some (people who are legally residing in a Spanish territory at the time of application), those signing up for a TEFL course will have to process their visas at their country of residence.
In addition to this, the regulations have introduced stricter requirements for visa renewals. Students will now have to pass a Spanish language exam (e.g. DELE or SIELE) to be accepted for a renewed visa. On the bright side, the visa will only have to be renewed once, as opposed to on a yearly basis. The maximum visa length for TEFL students is two years.
Furthermore, students living and studying in Spain have the opportunity to obtain a work residency permit afterwards, if they wish to stay. However, they will now be required to complete a professional training program or a university degree in Spain to receive such a permit.
Under the current rules, here are the requirements applicants must meet to be eligible for a student visa in Spain:
• Valid passport and photos: All applicants must provide a valid passport for the intended stay and standard visa photographs, complying with the consular specifications.
• Enrolment or acceptance letter: Students must hold a formal letter of acceptance or enrolment to a full-time course (a minimum of 20 hours / week), issued by an authorised educational institution in Spain. In many cases, proof of payment of tuition fees may also be required.
• Financial means: Applicants must demonstrate adequate financial resources to cover living expenses for the duration of the stay. This typically involves providing evidence through bank statements or sponsorship letters, where applicable. Evidence must meet or exceed the relevant threshold.
