Course Type Guide 2026Spain Student Visa
Spain Student Visa
by Course Type
The student visa covers language schools, university degrees, master's programmes, PhDs, and vocational training — but the rules apply equally to all. Find your course type.
Course Types
Spain Student Visa by Course Type
The Spain student visa covers a wide range of course types — from language schools to PhD programmes. The eligibility rules apply to all, but each course type has specific nuances around the enrolment letter, hours requirements, and renewal process. Find your course type below.
Eligibility Rules
What Every Qualifying Course Must Have
Regardless of course type, all Spain student visa qualifying courses must meet all four criteria simultaneously.
The 4 Universal Requirements
- At least 20 classroom hours per week — combined across all enrolled courses
- More than 90 days duration — courses of 90 days or fewer don't need a visa
- In-person delivery — online or distance learning courses do not qualify
- Accredited institution — officially registered/authorised to provide education in Spain
Common Questions
- Language school courses ✔ (if 20+ hrs/week, 90+ days, accredited)
- Bachelor's (grado) ✔ (at accredited Spanish university)
- Master's (máster) ✔ (at accredited institution)
- PhD (doctorado) ✔ (at accredited university)
- Vocational FP ✔ (at authorised FP centre)
- Online courses ✘ (not permitted)
- Short courses under 90 days ✘ (no visa needed)