Student Visa Refused? What to Check Next
A student visa involves two decisions:
- the immigration office decides the study authorisation;
- the consulate decides the visa.
If the authorisation isn't decided within seven days of the consulate's request, it's treated as unfavourable. Whatever the stage, the refusal must be reasoned and must state the remedies, where to file and the deadlines. The letter may contain a deadline, so obtain advice promptly. Courses start on fixed dates, so time matters.
The two decisions
| Stage | Who decides | Time limit |
|---|---|---|
| Study authorisation | The immigration office | Seven days from the consulate's request; no answer counts as unfavourable |
| Visa | The consulate | Within a month of a favourable authorisation |
Where the authorisation was refused, the consulate refuses the visa and must explain, in the same document, the remedies against both decisions.
The student requirements most often in question
- The course: whether it qualifies, and whether the institution is recognised or authorised.
- Means: 100% of the IPREM index for each month, with family amounts on top, from evidence the consulate accepts.
- Health insurance: an insurer authorised in Spain, cover similar to the public system's basic services, valid for the whole stay. The ministry's criteria and the consulates we checked add no copayments and a €30,000 floor where cover is capped.
- Certificates: the medical certificate and, for adults staying over six months, criminal record certificates.
- Timing: the application is due at least two months before the course starts, unless there's a justified reason.
Challenge or corrected new application?
For students the calendar often decides. A challenge takes time, and a course may start before it's resolved. A corrected new application can sometimes be ready sooner if the gap is simple, such as insurance dates that stopped short of the stay, or a sponsor letter without the sponsor's evidence. Talk to your institution about deferral options at the same time. Get advice on your own case before you choose. Do not assume you can reapply immediately; have the refusal reason reviewed first.
Help after a student visa refusal
My Spanish Student Visa and Platinum Legal Spain both publish detailed guidance on student refusals. Ask each whether it can take on an appeal or a new application for your case. The providers describe different arrangements following a refusal. Check the engagement terms before paying.
My Spanish Student Visa
A guide for refused student visa applicants.
- The common grounds for refusal
- Appeal or reapply, and a call to discuss
Opens provider website. No details shared.
Platinum Legal Spain
A guide to student visa rejections and how to respond.
- How to read the refusal letter
- Advice on the route that fits your case
Opens provider website. No details shared.
We don't pass your details to either service. Choosing one opens its website in a new tab, where you start a separate enquiry.
If insurance was the issue
Student insurance has the most detailed criteria of the three routes: an authorised insurer, comprehensive cover with no copayments, a €30,000 floor if cover is capped, and validity for the whole stay. For a new application we arrange a policy matched to your stay and check the certificate before you submit. Already insured with us? Tell us about the refusal, and we'll go through the options under your policy. See our student visa insurance guide.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the deadline?
It has to be in the notice you received. Note the date it reached you, and get advice promptly.
Should I tell my university?
Yes. Let the institution know, because enrolment and start dates may need to change. Ask it what it needs from you.
Can I apply from Spain instead?
Only in limited cases: holders of a Spanish residence authorisation, or adults in Spain lawfully for higher education, specialised health training or certain professional qualifications. Ask a service whether that applies to you.