
Things You Should Know Before Applying for a Student Visa in Europe
Planning to Study in Europe? Here’s What You Need to Know About Student Visas for 2025–2026
If you’re an international student dreaming of studying in Europe for the 2025–2026 academic year, there’s an important update you should know about. The European Union has released a detailed advisory to help students outside the EU prepare for their visa applications — and the key message is clear: start early.
Why Starting Early Matters
As more and more students set their sights on European universities, visa processing times are getting longer. The EU is encouraging students to begin their applications well in advance to avoid delays that could derail their plans.
Who Needs a Student Visa?
If you’re not a citizen of one of the 29 Schengen Area countries — which includes most EU countries like France, Germany, and Italy, as well as non-EU members like Norway, Switzerland, and Iceland — you’ll need a student visa to study in Europe.
The Two Main Types of Student Visas:
Your visa type depends on how long you’ll be studying:
Short-Stay Visa (Schengen Visa)
Duration: Up to 90 days within a 180-day period
Ideal for: Short courses, summer schools, workshops, or exchange programs
Long-Stay Visa (National Visa / Residence Permit)
Duration: Over 90 days
Required for: Full-time academic programs like bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees
Note: This visa also acts as a temporary residence permit and is issued by the country where your university is located
What Documents Do You Need?
While requirements vary slightly by country, here’s what most EU nations typically ask for:
A valid passport (at least 6 months beyond your stay)
An admission letter from your university
Proof of funds to cover tuition and living costs
Accommodation details in the host country
Health insurance that covers your full stay
A completed visa application form
You might also need:
Language test results (like IELTS or TOEFL)
Proof of tuition payment
Medical or vaccination records
Consent letters if you’re under 18
Country-specific forms depending on where you’re going
When Should You Apply?
The best time to start your visa process is 2 to 3 months before your program begins. Some embassies have long wait times for appointments, and incomplete paperwork can delay — or even derail — your application. Plus, some universities won’t finalize your enrolment until they see your valid visa.
Where to Find Reliable Visa Info:
Visa rules vary between EU countries, so it’s crucial to get your information from the right sources:
The official website of the embassy or consulate of your destination country
Your university’s international student office
Avoid relying on forums or social media groups — they often share outdated or incorrect info
Thinking Ahead:
Life After Graduation
Many EU countries offer visa options that let you stay after finishing your studies:
Post-Study Work Visa – lets you work after graduating (rules differ by country)
EU Blue Card – a work visa for highly skilled professionals
Job Seeker Visa – allows graduates time to find a job (usually valid for 6–12 months)
Research Visa – for academic or postdoctoral research roles
For example:
Germany offers an 18-month job seeker visa
The Netherlands has the Orientation Year visa (or zoekjaar) for graduates..
So if you’re dreaming of Europe, don’t wait. Start your visa journey now — your future is calling!
A passionate student with a keen interest in education, I write articles to explore and share insights on various aspects of learning and growth. My goal is to contribute meaningfully to the education sector through my writing.