Apply Student Visa for These 6 European Countries

Studying in Europe continues to attract students from Pakistan, South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. With affordable tuition, English-taught programs, and strong post-study opportunities, thousands apply each year. But for many, the challenge is not university admission—it is navigating the student visa process. Here’s a country-by-country breakdown of how to apply for a student visa for these six leading destinations.

France: Campus France Gateway

The France student visa process begins with the Campus France portal. Applicants must attend a preliminary interview before admission is confirmed. Once accepted, students prepare documents, including:

• Acceptance letter
• Proof of at least €7,380 per year
• Passport and health insurance
• Accommodation proof

The next step is applying for a long-stay student visa at the French Embassy, followed by biometrics and an interview.
Processing time: 3–6 weeks (Campus France).

Germany: Blocked Account Requirement

Germany remains popular for its tuition-free or low-cost education. To apply:

• Secure admission at a German university.
• Open a blocked account with at least €11,208 (mandatory for international students).
• Arrange health insurance and academic/financial documents.
• Book an embassy appointment for visa and biometrics.

The German Embassy notes processing can take 4–12 weeks, so applying early is essential.

Norway: Student Residence Permit

According to the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration, international students must show financial support of about NOK 137,907/year (€12,000). The steps are:

• Admission into a Norwegian university.
• Apply online for a student residence permit.
• Submit biometrics via VFS or Embassy.

Visa decisions typically arrive within 2–8 weeks.

Ireland: D-Type Visa

Ireland has become a hub for South Asian students. The Ireland D-Type student visa is filed online through the AVATS portal. Required documents include:

• Acceptance letter from a recognized university
• Proof of €7,000+ funds
• Passport and health insurance

After biometrics and interview, decisions usually take 4–8 weeks (Irish Immigration Service).

Finland: Migri Residence Permit

Finland offers English-taught programs in many fields. Students must apply online at Migri.fi and show proof of at least €6,720 per year, insurance, and accommodation. A biometric appointment at the Embassy or VFS is mandatory.
Processing time: 1–2 months.

Denmark: SIRI Student Permit

Denmark requires students to apply via SIRI (Danish Immigration Service). Applicants must show proof of living expenses, about DKK 6,397/month (~€8,000 annually). After submitting biometrics and attending an embassy interview, approvals take 2–3 months.

Key Features at a Glance

Pros and Cons for Students

Pros:

• High quality education and research institutions.
• English-taught programs widely available.
• Legal part-time work during studies.
• Post-study visa and PR routes available.

Cons:

• High living costs in Paris, Oslo, and Copenhagen.
• Strict proof of funds required.
• Processing delays of up to three months.
• Limited working hours may not cover expenses.

General Visa Checklist

Across all six countries, students must prepare:

• University admission letter
• Valid passport
• Proof of financial means
• Health insurance
• Accommodation proof
• Completed visa form
• Biometrics and interview

Immigration experts advise starting applications 4–6 months before intake, translating all documents, and avoiding unverified agents. Scholarships such as DAAD, Eiffel, and Erasmus+ can also reduce financial pressure.

Alternatives to Consider

For students seeking easier rules and lower costs, options like Poland, Hungary, Lithuania, Estonia, Portugal, and Czech Republic offer quicker visa processing and affordable living