Top 6 Countries Where CIS Students Can Get a Student Visa Most Easily

Dreaming of studying abroad but worried about the visa process?

Yes, obtaining a student visa is not the simplest process — it takes time, effort, and careful preparation. However, in some countries, getting a visa is significantly easier and faster than in others. Choosing the right destination can save you nerves and money thanks to clearer requirements, faster document processing, and predictable consular decisions.

In this article, we’ll cover the top 6 countries where students can navigate the visa process more smoothly, without unnecessary stress or headaches.

Contents:

• Selection criteria
• Italy
• Greece
• Germany
• Turkey
• Portugal
• UAE
• Assistance with studying abroad

Selection Criteria

We evaluated countries based on the following factors:

• Transparent requirements and clear document lists
• Application processing times
• Reasonable proof-of-financial-resources requirements
• Availability of online processes and university support
• Procedure clarity specifically for CIS citizens

The ranking is based on official sources, including consulate and migration authority websites.

1. Italy

Italy offers a straightforward procedure for obtaining a visa and residence permit for students from non-EU countries.

For programs longer than 90 days, a national student visa (Type D) is required. After arrival, students must submit an application for a student residence permit (permesso di soggiorno per studio) at the local police station within 8 working days.

To apply for a visa, students need: an acceptance letter from a university, proof of accommodation, health insurance, and proof of financial means.

Compared to many Western European countries, such as Switzerland or the UK, Italy offers relatively affordable conditions for international students. The cost of living is lower, especially in less expensive university cities like Bologna or Turin. In addition, students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during their studies, which can help partially cover tuition and living expenses.

2. Greece

Greece is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for students from the CIS. For some, the main draw is the low cost of tuition and living, while for others it’s the mild, comfortable Mediterranean climate combined with a rich cultural heritage.

Public universities in Greece offer bachelor’s programs ranging from €1,500 to €4,000 per year, and average living expenses are around €600–€1,000 per month, including rent, food, and transportation.

For long-term studies, students need a national student visa (Type D), which must be obtained before arrival based on a Letter of Acceptance from the university. After entering Greece, students are required to apply for a residence permit for studies at the migration office within the designated timeframe. Required documents include a passport, acceptance letter, proof of accommodation, health insurance, and proof of financial means.

Additionally, universities actively support international students at every stage of the visa and residence permit process, making enrollment simpler and more predictable. 

3. Germany

The national student visa (Type D) in Germany is issued for up to 12 months and allows students to obtain a residence permit for studies (Aufenthaltserlaubnis zum Zweck des Studiums) after arrival.

The visa process is transparent: applicants must provide a university admission letter (Zulassungsbescheid), proof of accommodation, health insurance, and proof of financial resources — typically via a blocked account (Sperrkonto) or scholarship. The average processing time is 6–8 weeks, and German consulates provide detailed, up-to-date checklists and forms for each region.

Germany’s main advantage is predictability and university support. Universities assist with visa documentation, and government authorities offer online appointments and clear instructions. Once the residence permit is granted, students are allowed to work up to 120 full days per year and, if desired, can stay in the country after graduation to seek employment. 

4. Turkey

Turkey is another affordable destination for students from the CIS. Its main advantages include a flexible visa policy and relatively low cost of living (starting from around $300 per month). In addition, Turkish universities offer a wide range of English-taught programs and scholarships — including the government-funded Türkiye Bursları, which covers both tuition and living expenses.

Universities also actively support international students with visa matters, and the application process often takes less time than in many EU countries.

The student visa process is straightforward: applicants must complete an online application, submit a Letter of Acceptance, passport, health insurance, and a photo. Processing usually takes 2–4 weeks, and residence permits can be extended on Turkish territory after arrival. Detailed instructions are available on the official educational portal Study in Türkiye.

5. Portugal

Portugal is one of the most student-friendly countries in the EU for CIS citizens. Visa and immigration procedures are highly transparent, and universities provide active support for applicants.

To study in Portugal, students need a national student visa (Type D), issued on the basis of a university acceptance letter. Upon arrival, students must apply for a residence permit for higher education students (Autorização de Residência para Estudantes do Ensino Superior) at the SEF migration office.

The required documents are standard: passport, acceptance letter, health insurance, proof of financial means, and proof of accommodation. Visa processing typically takes 30–60 days, and residence permits can be extended for the full duration of study. Universities assist with document preparation and registration upon arrival.

Living in Portugal is comfortable and relatively affordable by Western European standards: average student expenses range from €600–€900 per month, including accommodation and food. 

6. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE is currently considered one of the most convenient and transparent countries for international students to enroll. The student visa process is significantly simpler and faster here than in many Western countries, as the university handles the application itself. After receiving the official acceptance letter, the university submits the visa application on the student's behalf, overseeing the entire process and helping to avoid errors.

A student visa to the UAE is issued without the need to go to the embassy—all procedures are completed within the country. Upon acceptance, students receive an electronic entry permit, which allows them to travel to the Emirates. Once there, a mandatory medical examination, Emirates ID registration, and student residence visa are completed.

The process typically takes one to three weeks. The visa is valid for one year and is easily extended for the entire duration of study. Students with this visa are entitled to temporary part-time work and paid internships, and after completing their studies, they can extend their residence permit to search for work.

Assistance with Studying Abroad

At ED-EX.com, our specialists don’t just help you choose a university — we prepare the full application package, check translations, draft cover letters, coordinate consulate appointments, and provide a step-by-step checklist. Our experts are familiar with the nuances of CIS and European consulates, saving you time and reducing the risk of visa refusal.

A personal consultation with an ED-EX.com expert gives you the opportunity to:

• Assess your profile (academic performance, language skills, etc.) to understand your chances of admission
• Review the education systems in the countries you are considering
• Get answers to questions about applying, studying, and living abroad
• Receive a personalized action plan — which exams to take, which documents are required, and how we will guide you through every step of the process

Don’t take chances with your future — book your consultation today.

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