Studying abroad doesn’t just give you access to the best academic programs in the world. It also gives you access to another culture, which can provide you with an education in and of itself.
Remitly is committed to supporting students on their academic journey, regardless of where it takes them. In this article, we’ll outline what a student visa is and the application process, so that you can smoothly transition into the next chapter of your life.
What is a student visa?
A student visa allows international students to enter a country to study and stay there for the duration of their course.
Student visas are for study at an approved educational institution. Many countries expect students to return to their home country at the end of their studies, but some also offer pathways to post-study work or permanent residence.
Who needs a student visa?
The requirement to apply for a student visa depends on a student’s nationality, intended duration of stay, and the policies of the destination country.
Even if you can enter a foreign country visa-free as a tourist, your studies may extend beyond the permitted visa-free period. As a result, many students looking to study abroad will have to apply for some type of student visa.
There are some exceptional cases where a student visa is not required. For example, citizens of EU countries can study in other EU destinations without a visa. In Ireland, many nationalities, including citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Singapore, South Korea, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, and more, do not need a visa to enter the country for short stays (under 90 days). However, studying during a short stay may still require registration or permission depending on the course and length.
Types of student visas
The type of visa you apply for depends on your intended destination. Some countries offer different types of student visas depending on your situation.
Overview of student visas
In general, countries break down their student visa types based on the type of studies you’ll be conducting or the duration of your studies.
There are often different visas for students who are attending short-term exchange programs, usually those that last less than 90 days. In some countries, short-term study may be allowed under a visitor or tourist visa.
Students wishing to stay for longer periods may have to apply for a long-term visa that will cover the duration of their studies.
Examples from popular locations
Here are a few visa types from countries that are popular destinations for students:
- The United States:
- The F1 visa is the most common student visa in the US and is intended for long-term academic study at an accredited university, college, or school
- The J1 visa allows for study at a high school or university as well as internships and language immersion programs
- The M1 visa is less common and is for students pursuing non-academic vocational studies or training
- The United Kingdom offers the Student visa (formerly Tier 4) for long-term academic study
- Canada calls their student visa the “study permit,” and it allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions in Canada. It’s technically not a visa, so you may also need a temporary resident visa depending on your nationality.
- Australia’s student visa is Subclass 500, which allows students to stay in the country for up to five years in accordance with their academic program
Eligibility for a student visa
To be eligible for a student visa, you’ll have to gain admission to—and be enrolled in—a recognized academic institution in your destination country.
Common requirements
The requirements for a student visa will vary depending on where you intend to study. However, in general, you’ll need the following:
- A valid passport. As with any visa application, the first requirement is a valid and up-to-date passport from your home country.
- Sufficient financial resources. You’ll have to submit bank letters, statements, or scholarship documents to show that you can financially support yourself and cover the tuition fees and living expenses for your international studies.
- Proof of enrollment. You’ll need an official letter or certificate of acceptance issued by the school, confirming your enrollment and details of your course (such as duration and start date). Some countries may also require other details to be included, such as tuition fees.
- Other common requirements. These could include proof of language proficiency, health insurance, medical exams, and a clear criminal record.
How to obtain a student visa
Application process and required documents
You can navigate to the government website of the country where you intend to study to get detailed information about how to apply for the correct student visa. While the general steps are often similar, specific details for each country can vary greatly.
- Gather your required documents. As mentioned above, you’ll need proof of acceptance and enrollment, a valid passport, and proof of financial means. You may also be required to submit health insurance coverage, vaccination records, and proof of payment of the application fee.
- Complete the application form. Ensure that all of the information you provide is accurate and honest. You’ll want to make sure that your personal information, like your name, is consistent with your passport and enrollment information. Some countries require this online, and some on paper.
- If required, schedule and attend an interview or appointment at your local embassy or consulate. Be sure to dress professionally and bring your original documents and copies.
- Pay the necessary fees. This is often done online with a credit or debit card. However, in some countries, you might have to pay at a bank or in person. Remember to keep proof of payment safe.
How much does a student visa cost?
Visa fees vary greatly from country to country. For example, an F1 visa in the US costs about $535 USD across two different fees. A Subclass 500 visa in Australia costs from $1,600 AUD (about $1,000 USD). Refer to the government website of the country in which you intend to apply in order to understand visa application fees. Keep in mind that these fees are typically non-refundable even if your visa is denied.
It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the visa fee information in the country where you’ll be applying, as there are occasionally visa fee waivers for special circumstances or increased fees for additional services, like rush processing.
What happens after applying?
After you complete the application process, be prepared to wait several weeks to a few months to hear back about your visa. Keep in mind that some countries will notify you of visa updates by mail, while others will provide these updates online through email or a visa application portal.
It’s a good idea to wait to book any travel until after your visa is approved.
If, for some reason, your visa is denied, try to understand why you were rejected. In some cases, you may be able to reapply immediately, but in others, there may be a waiting period. If necessary, employ the help of a professional to guide you through the visa application process.
FAQs
Do I need a visa to study in any country?
Typically, yes, but there are exceptions. For example, students from EU countries, EEA countries, or Switzerland don’t typically need a visa to study in other EU/EEA countries. Check the visa requirements of the country you’re planning to study in.
Do student visas allow for work privileges?
Some student visas come with work privileges. In some places, students will be permitted to work part-time during the school year and full-time during breaks and vacation periods. However, student visas generally do not allow for full-time permanent employment, self-employment, or business activities.
What happens if I transfer schools?
This depends on the country. In many cases, you will need to inform immigration authorities or get approval. In other cases, you may need a new visa.