Check if you need a student visa and learn the difference between short-stay and long-stay visas. Use official resources to ensure smooth arrival and start to your studies.
© European Union 2025
Planning to study in Europe as an international student?
There’s a lot to look forward to — new cities, exciting courses, and a chance to experience diverse cultures.
Before your studies begin, make sure you prepare for key practical steps, including visa requirements. By planning ahead and using official sources, you can avoid delays and focus on your academic goals.
Where would you like to study in Europe?
In Europe, 29 countries make up the Schengen Area and use a common set of visa rules for short stays and transit. Schengen countries are:
- 25 European Union (EU) countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden
- 4 non-EU countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland
If you are not a national of any of these countries and you plan to come and study, you may need a visa.
What type of visa would you need?
The type of visa you need depends on how long you will study in Europe:
- Short-stay visa – For study programmes or mobility periods lasting up to 90 days within a 180-day period..
- Long-stay visa or residence permit – If your studies will last longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a national long-stay visa or a student residence permit. These are issued by the country where your host university is located.