Last Updated: 16 September 2026
A study visa lets you enrol at an approved institution abroad. You usually need an offer first, then proof you can pay fees and living costs.
Short courses under the visitor limit may not need a study visa. Check the destination's rules for course length.
Immigration advice is regulated in several destination countries. The UK regulates immigration advisers, Canada requires licensed immigration consultants or lawyers for paid representation, and Australia requires registered migration agents. Ask any provider whether they are authorised for the destination country before paying for advice.
Tell us the country, institution and course start date.
Get Study Visa QuotesStudent Visa Routes
| Country | Visa | Offer document |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Student visa | Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) |
| Canada | Study permit | Letter of acceptance, plus provincial attestation for most applicants |
| Australia | Student visa (subclass 500) | Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) |
| United States | F-1 student visa | Form I-20 and interview |
| Ireland | Study visa (long stay) | Letter of acceptance and fee payment |
| Schengen countries | National long-stay (D) visa | University admission |
Study Visa Costs
| Item | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| UK Student visa | £558 (approx. R12,160) | Official government fee |
| UK health surcharge (students) | £776 (approx. R16,920) per year | Official government fee |
| Canada study permit + biometrics | CAD 150 (approx. R1,770) + CAD 85 (approx. R1,000) | Official government fees |
| Australia Student visa (500) | AUD 2,500 (approx. R26,750) | Official government fee |
| US F-1 visa + SEVIS fee | US$185 (approx. R3,000) + US$350 (approx. R5,670) | Official government fees |
| Transcripts, SAQA or credential evaluation | R500 - R6,000 | Third-party |
| Study visa file preparation | R2,500 - R8,000 | Optional assistance fee |
Fees may change and should be confirmed with the relevant government, embassy, consulate or authorised visa application provider before applying. Rand amounts are approximate conversions and assistance fees are indicative market ranges, not quotations.
Compare quotes before the course deadline, not after.
Compare Study Visa QuotesDocuments for Study Visas
- Offer or enrolment document (CAS, LOA, CoE or I-20).
- Proof of funds for fees and living costs.
- Academic records, sometimes with matric or SAQA verification.
- English test results.
- Health insurance where required, such as OSHC for Australia.
- Parental consent and unabridged birth certificate for under-18s.
Timing
Apply as soon as you have your offer document. Peak intake periods slow processing. Processing times are estimates and can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while studying abroad?
Most student visas allow limited part-time work. Hours and conditions vary by country.
How much money do I need to show?
Each country sets its own funds requirement, usually covering tuition and a fixed living-cost amount.
Can my partner join me?
Some routes allow dependants, but several countries have restricted this for many courses.
Can I stay after studying?
Some countries offer post-study work routes, such as the UK Graduate visa. Rules and fees change often.
Compare assistance quotes for your study visa application through Visa Application - free and with no obligation.
Related Pages
Visa approval is solely at the discretion of the relevant immigration authority. Visa Application is not a government department, embassy, consulate or visa application centre, and no provider can guarantee approval, appointment availability or processing time.
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