Introduction
Studying abroad is a life-changing experience—but before you board that plane, there’s one crucial step: securing the right student visa. Each country has its own visa types, rules, and benefits. In this 2025 guide, we’ll explore the different types of student visas for major study destinations, who they apply to, and what makes each one unique.
 |
| Visa Types for Students for All Countries |
Planning to study abroad in 2025? Learn about all types of student visas by country, duration, eligibility, and benefits in this comprehensive guide.
1. United States – F, M, and J Visas
F-1 Visa (Academic Student)
- For full-time students at accredited universities, colleges, high schools, or language schools.
- Allows part-time on-campus work and Optional Practical Training (OPT).
M-1 Visa (Vocational Student)
- For non-academic or vocational study (technical training).
- Limited work rights.
J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitor)
- For students under an official exchange program.
- Includes interns, trainees, au pairs, and scholars.
2. United Kingdom – Tier 4/Student Route Visa
Student Route Visa (Previously Tier 4)
- For students aged 16+ enrolled in a UK institution.
- Requires Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
- Work allowed up to 20 hours/week.
Child Student Visa
- For students aged 4–17 attending private schools.
3. Canada – Study Permit
Canada Study Permit
- Required for programs longer than 6 months.
- Must have a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Allows part-time work (20 hours/week) and full-time during breaks.
- Eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
4. Australia – Subclass 500 Visa
Subclass 500 – Student Visa
- For full-time study at a recognized Australian institution.
- Work limit: 48 hours per fortnight (as of 2025).
- Can apply for Temporary Graduate visa post-study.
5. France – VLS-TS and Short-Stay Visa
VLS-TS (Long-Stay Student Visa)
- For courses longer than 3 months.
- Acts as a residence permit (must validate after arrival).
Short-Stay Visa
- For programs less than 90 days (e.g., short language courses).
6. Germany – National Student Visa
National Visa for Study Purposes
- Required for courses longer than 3 months.
- Must show proof of admission and funds (blocked account).
- Part-time work allowed (120 full or 240 half days/year).
Language Course Visa
- For students enrolled in intensive German language programs.
7. Italy – Type D Visa for Study
Type D (National Visa)
- For full-time study lasting over 90 days.
- Requires enrollment in a recognized institution.
- Valid for Bachelor's, Master’s, or PhD programs.
8. Netherlands – MVV and Residence Permit
MVV (Entry Visa) + Residence Permit
- MVV is required for non-EU/EEA students to enter the Netherlands.
- Residence Permit allows study and part-time work (16 hours/week or full-time in summer).
9. Japan – Student Visa
Japan General Student Visa
- For higher education or language studies.
- Requires Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
- Allows limited work hours (up to 28 hours/week with permission).
10. New Zealand – Fee Paying Student Visa
Fee Paying Student Visa
- For full-time study in a New Zealand institution.
- Work rights: 20 hours/week during term, full-time during breaks.
- Post-study work visa available for 1–3 years.
11. South Korea – D-2 and D-4 Visas
D-2 Visa (Regular Degree Program)
- For Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD students.
D-4 Visa (Language Study/Training)
- For non-degree or Korean language courses.
12. Sweden – Residence Permit for Study
Residence Permit for Studies
- Required for courses longer than 3 months.
- Must be enrolled in a recognized institution and pay the first semester’s fee.
13. China – X1 and X2 Visas
X1 Visa
- For programs longer than 180 days (degree programs).
- Convert to residence permit upon arrival.
X2 Visa
- For short-term study under 6 months.
14. Ireland – Stamp 2 Student Visa
Stamp 2
- For non-EU students enrolled in a recognized course.
- Work up to 20 hours/week during term and 40 during holidays.
- Must study a course on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP).
15. UAE – Student Residence Visa
Student Visa
- Requires university sponsorship.
- Valid for 1 year, renewable.
- Work and internships allowed with approval.
Comparison Table: Student Visa Types by Country
| Country | Main Student Visa Name | Work Allowed | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | F-1, M-1, J-1 | Yes (restrictions) | Program duration |
| UK | Student Route Visa | Yes (20 hrs/week) | Up to 5 years |
| Canada | Study Permit | Yes (20 hrs/week) | Program duration |
| Australia | Subclass 500 | Yes (48 hrs/fortnight) | Up to 5 years |
| France | VLS-TS | Yes (964 hrs/year) | 1 year renewable |
| Germany | National Visa | Yes (120 full days) | Course length |
| Italy | Type D Visa | Yes | Program duration |
| Japan | Student Visa | Yes (28 hrs/week) | Up to 4 years |
| Netherlands | MVV + Residence Permit | Yes (16 hrs/week) | Up to 5 years |
| Ireland | Stamp 2 | Yes | Program length |
| South Korea | D-2, D-4 | Yes | Varies |
| Sweden | Residence Permit | Yes | Course length |
| China | X1, X2 | Limited | Course length |
| New Zealand | Fee Paying Student Visa | Yes | Up to 4 years |
| UAE | Student Visa | Limited | 1 year renewable |
Final Thoughts
Each country has unique rules for student visas. Understanding the right type of visa, the application process, and your work rights is crucial before applying. Plan early, gather your documents, and stay updated with the 2025 requirements of your destination country.
