If you’re planning to study in Spain, one of the most important requirements for your student visa is proving you have sufficient funds to cover your stay. Many students get confused about how much money they need to show in their bank account.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
✅ The exact bank balance required for a Spain student visa
✅ Accepted proof of funds documents
✅ Tips to meet financial requirements
✅ Common mistakes to avoid
Let’s dive in!
1. Spain Student Visa Financial Requirements
The Spanish government wants to ensure that international students can support themselves without financial difficulties. The exact amount you need depends on the duration of your stay and the city you’ll be living in.
Minimum Bank Balance for Spain Student Visa (2024-2025)
For stays up to 1 year: You must show €7,200 – €10,800 (approx. $7,800 – $11,700) in a bank account.
This is based on Spain’s IPREM (Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income) requirement, which is €600/month for 12 months (€7,200).
Some consulates may ask for 100% of IPREM (€600/month) or even 150% (€900/month) for extra security.
For stays longer than 1 year: You must prove you have at least €600/month for each additional month.
Does the Amount Change Based on the City?
Yes! If you’re studying in expensive cities like Barcelona or Madrid, the consulate might ask for a higher amount (around €900-€1,000/month). Smaller cities like Valencia or Seville may stick to the minimum requirement.
Official Reference: Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Student Visa Requirements
2. Accepted Proof of Funds for Spain Student Visa
You can’t just show a bank statement—Spain requires official, verifiable proof of financial stability. Here are the accepted documents:
A. Personal Bank Statements
Last 3-6 months of bank statements showing consistent balance.
Must be in your name (or a sponsor’s, with additional documents).
Should match or exceed the required amount.
B. Scholarship or Grant Letters
If you have a scholarship, the official letter must state the amount covered.
The scholarship should meet or exceed the IPREM requirement.
C. Sponsorship Letter (If Someone Else is Funding You)
A notarized affidavit of support from parents/guardians.
Their last 3-6 months of bank statements (minimum balance required).
A letter explaining their relationship to you and commitment to funding your studies.
D. Fixed Deposits or Investment Proof
Some consulates accept fixed deposits (FDs) or liquid investments.
The amount should be easily withdrawable if needed.
E. Student Loan Approval Letter
If you’re taking an education loan, the sanction letter must show the approved amount.
Useful Resource: Study in Spain – Visa Financial Requirements
3. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many visa applications get rejected due to financial proof issues. Here’s what to watch out for:
❌ Showing sudden large deposits (Consulates may suspect borrowed money).
❌ Providing unofficial or edited bank statements (Always get stamped statements from the bank).
❌ Not covering the full duration of stay (If your course is 2 years, show funds for 24 months).
❌ Using a joint account without proper sponsorship proof (If it’s a parent’s account, include an affidavit).
Pro Tip: Check Spain’s official visa guidelines here: Spain Visa Portal
4. Tips to Strengthen Your Financial Proof
✔ Maintain a stable balance for at least 3 months before applying.
✔ If using a sponsor, ensure their income is stable (salary slips, tax returns help).
✔ Get official, stamped bank statements (not just printed PDFs).
✔ Check with your consulate—some have stricter rules than others.
Recommended Reading: How to Prepare Bank Statements for a Visa
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I work in Spain with a student visa to support myself?
Yes, but only part-time (20 hours/week). You still need to show full financial proof at the time of visa application.
Q2. What if my bank balance is slightly lower than required?
Some consulates may accept additional proof like property papers, fixed deposits, or a sponsor’s guarantee. Check with your local Spanish embassy.
Q3. Do I need to block the money in my account?
No, but the amount should be readily available (not locked in long-term investments).
Q4. Can I use my parents’ bank account?
Yes, but you’ll need a notarized sponsorship letter and their financial documents.
More FAQs: Spain Student Visa Common Questions
Final Thoughts
The Spain student visa bank balance requirement is €600-€900 per month, depending on your location and consulate. To avoid rejection:
✅ Show consistent funds (not last-minute deposits).
✅ Provide official, verifiable documents.
✅ Double-check with your local Spanish consulate for any extra requirements.
By preparing your finances properly, you’ll have a smooth visa process and can focus on your studies in beautiful Spain! 🇪🇸
