Changes to Student Visas for Language Course Students in Spain: What to Know in 2025

Spring 2025 brings significant changes to Spain’s immigration policy, and unfortunately, they are not in favor of students enrolled in language courses. These updates impose new restrictions and eliminate certain possibilities that were previously available.

Here’s what’s changing and how to prepare so you don’t lose your legal basis for staying in Spain.

 

1. Applications for a Student Stay Permit Can No Longer Be Submitted from Within Spain After May 20

Starting from May 20, 2025, foreign nationals already in Spain on a short-term visa (such as a Schengen tourist visa) will no longer be able to apply for a student stay permit (autorización de estancia por estudios) from within the country.

From this date onward, applications must be submitted from abroad — specifically, from the applicant’s country of citizenship or legal residence through a Spanish consulate.

On the one hand, this change could simplify the process in terms of time and cost: applicants will no longer need to enter Spain on a tourist visa in order to apply. It also removes the requirement to have at least 30 days of legal stay remaining at the time of application.

On the other hand, this change introduces uncertainty. Spanish consulates often have differing document requirements and procedures, which can complicate the process. It will also be more difficult to obtain supporting documents like private health insurance or medical certificates, which are often easier to arrange locally within Spain.

 

2. Modification to a Residence Permit with Work Authorization Will No Longer Be Possible

Previously, students attending language courses could use this type of stay as a stepping stone to change their status — for example, to switch to a work permit or to self-employment.

This is now officially prohibited.

Students who are only enrolled in language courses are no longer eligible to request a modification of their stay permit.

To switch to another type of residence status, the applicant will need to leave Spain and apply from abroad.

That said, other pathways for remaining in Spain are still available. For instance, students who enroll in official higher education programs may retain the right to modify their stay. In addition, Law 14/2013 (governing digital nomads or intra-corporate transferees) remains an option: having a student stay permit keeps your presence in Spain legal, which is a prerequisite for applying for such residence types.

 

3. Language Course Stay Permits Can Be Renewed Only Once

Another important change: student stay permits based on language courses can now only be renewed one time. A second renewal — i.e., staying in Spain under this type of permit for more than two academic years — is no longer allowed.

This means the total time allowed under this permit is strictly limited. Students should plan their next steps in advance if they wish to remain in Spain longer.

 

4. DELE or SIELE Exam Now Required for Renewal

From 2025 onward, it will no longer be enough to simply present a certificate of course completion to renew a language course stay permit. Students will be required to show real progress in learning Spanish.

Specifically, renewals will only be granted if the student has passed a DELE or SIELE exam, which are the official diplomas for Spanish as a foreign language.

If the student fails or does not take the exam — the renewal will be denied.

Previously, this requirement existed only in certain regions. For example, the immigration offices in Madrid and Barcelona did not usually require DELE certification — but that will change with this new national policy.

 

What to Do Now?

• Check your current permit’s expiration date – remember, applications for renewal or modification must be submitted no earlier than 60 days before the permit expires.
• Any applications submitted before May 20, 2025 will still be reviewed under the old rules – this means you may still have a chance to apply for a modification under the current system.
• Prepare for the DELE exam – and register for it in advance.

 

Need Help? We’re Here for You

The rules are stricter — but there’s always a way forward.
Our team can help you:

• Evaluate your current status and long-term options;
• Prepare your documents for a new or renewed student residence permit;
• Identify legal alternatives to remain in Spain (such as academic programs, work permits, etc.);
• Develop a step-by-step strategy tailored to your goals.

Book a consultation and receive personalized guidance — no stress, no guesswork, just solid support.