How Can I Learn Basque, Catalan, Galician, Or Valencian In Spain For Free?

Spain is famous for its flamenco rhythms and architectural icons, but in 2025 it’s also recognised for its rich linguistic diversity. Alongside Spanish (Castellano), several co-official regional languages — Basque, Catalan, Galician and Valencian — shape daily life across different autonomous communities.

For expats moving to Spain, learning the local language is one of the fastest ways to integrate. Many new arrivals are surprised to discover that several regions offer free language courses in 2025, making it easier to settle in and participate in community life.

These free programmes usually require residency in the region, attendance commitments and, in some cases, age conditions. Always check eligibility before enrolling.

Basque: Free Basque (Euskera) Courses in 2025

The Basque Government offers subsidised or completely free Basque (Euskera) classes for foreigners and Spanish speakers. Eligibility conditions apply.

• Subsidies require completing an entire level (A1–C1).
• C1 funding is only available to students under 30.
• You must attend at least 75% of classes.
• You must pass the official Euskaltegi exam.

Applications are submitted via the HABE website. Registration typically runs from early September to early October.

Note: Some classes may be free while official exams may require a small fee.

Catalan: Free Catalan Courses in Catalonia (2025)

According to the Catalan Government, free Catalan-learning options exist across four institutions:

• Adult Training Centres
• Catalan Universities
• Consortium for Linguistic Normalisation (CPNL)
• EOI – Official Language Schools

Adult Training Centres

These centres deliver free A1–B1 Catalan courses for adults. They are located throughout Catalonia and can be located via your local ayuntamiento.

Catalan Universities

University language departments offer Catalan courses (A1–C2), available in-person, blended or online. Students and alumni often receive reduced rates.

Full university list: https://llengua.gencat.cat/en/aprendre_catala/vull_aprendre_catala/index.html

Consortium for Linguistic Normalisation (CPNL)

CPNL provides accredited Catalan courses, many of which are free at beginner levels. Higher levels may require a small fee.

Find courses here: https://www.cpnl.cat/en/troba-el-teu-curs-de-catala-en/

EOI – Official Language Schools

EOIs offer official Catalan training and certification for adults. Some courses are free; others require payment depending on level and availability.

Galician: Free Galego Courses in Galicia (2025)

The Galician Government runs free Galician-language courses each year, aimed at preparing students for CELGA exams. Courses are delivered across all four provinces.

• Levels CELGA 1–4 available
• Offered in language schools and online
• Registration is available through the Xunta website

Sign-up and course information: https://www.xunta.gal/portada

The Xunta also provides free online self-study courses, including recent CELGA 3 programmes.

Valencian: Free Valencian Courses in the Valencian Community

Valencian (Valencià) is available through multiple free or low-cost public channels:

• Public adult training centres offer free A1 courses (minimum 60 hours).
• The University of Valencia provides free A1 and A2 courses (40 hours each).

Course info: https://www.uv.es/uvweb/servicio-politica-linguistica/es/cursos-1286002916099.html

Valencia also runs Idiomes Joves — a free youth programme offering conversation and training sessions throughout the year.

Availability Outside These Regions

Free courses for co-official languages are typically not available outside their home regions. According to the Ministry of Education, around 80% of EOIs in Spain do not offer Basque, Catalan, Galician or Valencian.

• If you're in Catalonia and want to learn Galician: options are extremely limited.
• If you're in the Canary Islands and want to learn Catalan: you may need private tutoring.
• In many regions, paid EOI courses or online teachers may be the only option.

Protect Your Health While You Study or Live in Spain

Need medical coverage while attending language courses or relocating? With Sanitas private health insurance, you get fast access to private clinics, English-speaking support and no delays during peak public-holiday periods.

Conclusion

Spain’s free regional-language programmes in 2025 provide an excellent opportunity for deeper integration and cultural understanding. Whether you're learning Basque, Catalan, Galician or Valencian, these publicly funded initiatives offer accessible pathways to fluency. This guide covers the key regions where free courses exist, helping you choose the best options based on where you live.

This article summarises all free co-official language learning options available in Spain in 2025.