Can international students work while studying in Spain?

Non-EU student visa holders issued after August 2022 can generally work part-time, up to a set weekly hours limit, without needing a separate work permit. Always confirm the specific limit that applies to your visa before starting a job.

Relocation Guides

Moving to Spain as a student

The visa, enrolment and settling-in steps that matter specifically for international students.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-15

This guide is not yet verified by Tuchati's editorial review — treat it as a helpful starting point, not a final legal answer.

Overview

Studying in Spain as an international student involves choosing where to study, settling in, and building a life around your course — beyond the visa application itself, which has its own dedicated guide. This guide connects the non-visa pieces relevant to students specifically.

Requirements

Relevant to non-EU students planning to study in Spain for more than 90 days; EU students follow the simpler EU citizen registration process instead

Step-by-step process

Secure your place at an authorised Spanish educational institution first — your acceptance letter is required for the Student Visa application (see our detailed guide to the Student Visa for the full application process and deadlines)
Once your visa is approved and you've arrived, follow up on any required TIE application within the required window
Research student housing options near your institution, and whether it offers dedicated accommodation for international students
Consider a Spanish language course before or alongside your studies if your programme isn't taught in English — see our guide to Spanish language courses

Required documents

Acceptance letter from an authorised Spanish educational institution
Passport with sufficient validity

Common mistakes

Leaving the visa application until close to the course start date — see our Student Visa guide for the recommended application window
Not researching student housing early, when demand near popular institutions can be high right before term starts

Practical tips

If you plan to work part-time while studying, our Student Visa guide covers the specific work-hours limit that applies
University international offices commonly offer settling-in support (housing lists, buddy programmes) specifically for incoming international students — check what your institution offers

How Tuchati can help

If you're settling into student life in Spain and want help beyond the visa process itself, Tuchati can help you get the practical details right for your specific programme and city.