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Study in Spain from Nigeria

Lower fees than the UK, up to 30 hours’ work a week while you study, and 12 months to find a job after you graduate.

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Park Güell overlooking Barcelona

Spain rewrote its student rules in May 2025. Your permit now covers the whole programme and lets you work up to 30 hours a week. After you graduate you can stay 12 months to look for work. Most jobs still need Spanish, so start learning before you go.

Some Spanish schools teach online only. An online course gives you no visa. We only apply to programmes you attend in person.

Who this destination suits

Students with €8,000–€20,000 a year for tuition. People willing to learn Spanish. Students in IT, data, hospitality and culinary arts.

LightTouch’s role

We shortlist in-person programmes, handle your admission, legalise your documents and prepare your visa file for the BLS centre.

Key facts

Updated: September 2026
Main intakesSeptember/October (main), some February
Tuition (non-EU)About €8,000–€20,000/yr at private universities
Proof of funds€600/month (100% of IPREM)
Work while studyingUp to 30 hrs/week
After graduation12-month job-search permit
Visa fee€90

Figures verified against official sources at build time. Rules change. Confirm with the relevant authorities before applying. LightTouch will check the current figures for your case.

Applying from Nigeria

How it works for you

Weeks 1–4

Admission

Apply and accept your offer. Pay the registration and enrolment fees the school asks for.

Weeks 2–8

Legalise documents

Nigeria isn’t in the Apostille Convention, so certificates and your police certificate need legalisation.

Book early

BLS appointment

Submit at the BLS Spain visa centre with your medical certificate and full health insurance. Travel insurance isn’t accepted.

On arrival

Register your permit

Collect your foreigner’s identity card (TIE). It covers the full length of your programme.

English and WAEC

Many private universities accept an MOI letter or run their own English test. WAEC-only applicants usually start with a foundation or preparatory year. We confirm each school’s rule.

Schools we apply to

  • Universidad Europea
  • EU Business School Barcelona
  • EAE Business School
  • UCAM Murcia
  • Schiller International University
  • Berlin School of Business and Innovation, Barcelona
  • Barcelona Technology School
  • ESADE and UPC (Master’s, top applicants)

Our list grows. If your school isn’t here, ask us.

Courses we recommend

  • IT and cybersecurity
  • Data science
  • Tourism and hospitality
  • Culinary arts

Spain’s Highly Qualified Professional permit starts at a salary of €40,100, so aim for technical and data roles if you plan to stay.

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FAQ

Common questions

How many hours can I work as a student in Spain?
Up to 30 hours a week, as long as the work fits around your studies. You don’t need a separate work permit.
How long can I stay after graduating?
You can apply for a 12-month job-search permit. Older guides that say 24 months are out of date.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
Not for an English-taught programme. For most jobs, yes. Start learning before you travel.
Can I study online and get a visa?
No. Online-only programmes don’t lead to a student visa.

Check if Spain fits your budget.

One honest conversation. We’ll confirm the current figures for your situation.

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