To be allowed as a student in an EU country, a third-country national must be enrolled at an accredited higher education institution for full-time studies leading to qualification such as a diploma, a certificate, or a PhD degree. The applicant must have sufficient financial resources to cover living expenses, tuition fees, and return travel costs. Depending on the country, additional requirements may include proof of language proficiency in the language of the studies and payment of tuition fees.
The required documents include a valid passport, parental authorization (if the person is under 18), health insurance and proof of payment of the visa application or residence permit fee. The application must be submitted to the relevant national authorities. A decision is typically made within 90 days, and the permit is issued for the duration of the studies, with a minimum period of one year for long-term programmes.
It should be noted that the application may be refused or the permit may be revoked if the conditions are not met, if false documents are submitted, if there is no academic progress, or if the person poses a threat to the public order.
After completing their studies, the person may remain in the country for at least nine months to seek employment or start a business. In such cases, they must apply for a new residence permit.
If the person remains in the EU after their permit has expired, this would constitute violation and they may be required to leave the country.