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STUDENT VISA

Unlock Your Future: Navigating the Student Visa Process

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity that opens doors to world-class education, cultural experiences, and career prospects. However, obtaining a student visa is a crucial step in making this dream a reality. This guide will walk you through the student visa process, helping you understand requirements, application steps, and how we can assist you in securing your visa smoothly.

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What is a Student Visa?

A student visa is a temporary visa that allows international students to study in a foreign country for a specific period. It typically grants permission to enroll in an accredited institution, work under certain conditions, and, in some cases, apply for post-study work opportunities.

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General Requirements for a Student Visa

Student visa requirements vary by country, but common eligibility criteria include:

  • Acceptance Letter from a recognized educational institution.

  • Proof of Financial Capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel.

  • Valid Passport with at least six months of validity beyond the intended stay.

  • Health Insurance as required by the destination country.

  • English Language Proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE) for English-speaking countries.

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining study plans and future goals.

  • Medical Examination and Police Clearance (varies by country).

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How to Apply for a Student Visa

  1. Choose Your Study Destination – Select a country and institution that aligns with your academic goals.

  2. Secure Admission – Apply and receive an offer letter from your chosen school.

  3. Prepare Your Documents – Gather financial proof, academic transcripts, and other supporting materials.

  4. Lodge Your Visa Application – Submit your student visa application online or through the embassy.

  5. Attend an Interview (if required) – Some countries, like the USA, require an in-person interview.

  6. Wait for Approval – Processing times vary, so applying early is recommended.

  7. Prepare for Departure – Once approved, arrange accommodation and travel plans.​​​

Our Partner Institutions

Bigstart Travel and Visa Corp is proud to partner with reputable educational institutions worldwide.​​

 

Australia​

Australia offers a world-class education system and a diverse, multicultural environment for international students. The Student visa (subclass 500) allows international students to study and live in Australia while completing their qualification at a registered Australian education provider.

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Advantages

  • World-renowned universities with strong global recognition

  • Unique lifestyle benefits (beaches, outdoor culture, climate)

  • Strong protection for international students through ESOS Act

  • Proximity to Asian economies for professional networking

  • Comprehensive student support services

  • Unique research opportunities (marine biology, environmental science)

  • Additional benefits for studying in regional areas

  • Multicultural society with vibrant cities

  • Diverse natural environments and climates

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Working Rights

  • Work up to 48 hours per fortnight (24 hours per week) during course terms

  • Unlimited work hours during scheduled course breaks

  • Unlimited work hours for master's by research and doctoral degree students

  • Partners can work up to 48 hours per fortnight after you commence your course

  • Partners of master's and doctoral students may work unlimited hours

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Post-Study Options

  • Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) with two streams:

  • Graduate Work stream (18 months for skills assessment in specific occupations)

  • Post-Study Work stream (2-4 years depending on qualification level)

  • Potential pathways to permanent residency through skilled migration

  • Regional areas offer extended post-study work rights (up to 5 years) and additional migration points​

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Application Requirements

  • Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from your Australian education provider

  • Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement

  • Financial capacity (tuition fees, living costs, travel costs)

  • English language proficiency (varies by course level)

  • Health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover - OSHC) for entire stay

  • Good character and health requirements

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Australia's student visa program offers strong education opportunities, substantial working rights, and clear pathways to post-graduation work and potential migration, particularly in regional areas. The country's combination of quality education, lifestyle benefits, and post-study opportunities makes it a leading destination for international students worldwide.

Canada​

Canada is a highly sought-after study destination known for its quality education, diverse culture, and post-graduation opportunities. International students require a Study Permit to study in Canada for programs longer than six months. This isn't technically a visa but the authorization to study in Canada.

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Advantages

  • World-class education with globally recognized qualifications

  • Clear and straightforward pathway to permanent residence

  • Comprehensive health insurance in many provinces

  • Strong commitment to welcoming immigrants

  • Longer post-graduation work permit (up to 3 years)

  • Bilingual environment (English and French)

  • Strong support systems for international students

  • Diverse, inclusive, and safe multicultural society

  • Opportunities in both major cities and smaller communities

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Working Rights

  • Work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions

  • Full-time work during scheduled breaks (spring, summer, winter holidays)

  • No separate work permit needed for on-campus or off-campus work

  • Spouse/common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit

  • Co-op or internship options with co-op work permits for programs with mandatory work components

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Post-Study Options

  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allowing graduates to work for up to 3 years

  • 8-month to less than 2-year programs: PGWP equal to program length

  • 2 years or longer: 3-year PGWP

  • Clear pathways to permanent residence through:

  • Canadian Experience Class

  • Provincial Nominee Programs

  • Express Entry system with additional points for Canadian education​

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 Application Requirements

  • Letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

  • Proof of funds (tuition plus $10,000 for living expenses, more for dependents)

  • Clear of criminal record and security concerns

  • Medical exam in some cases

  • Biometrics (fingerprints and photo)

  • Demonstration of ties to home country and intention to leave after studies

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Canada's approach to international education offers a balanced combination of quality education, substantial work rights during and after studies, and one of the clearest pathways to permanent residence among major study destinations. This makes it particularly attractive for students seeking long-term opportunities in their host country after graduation.

Germany​

Germany offers low-cost education at most public universities, making it an attractive destination for international students. The German student visa (and subsequent residence permit) allows students to study at German universities while experiencing Europe's strongest economy.

 

Advantages​

  • Strong focus on practical training and industry connections

  • Excellent work-life balance and social security benefits

  • Central European location with access to Schengen Area

  • Strong manufacturing and engineering sectors

  • High-quality vocational education and dual study programs

  • Robust research and technological sectors

  • Only semester contribution fee required (€150-350 per semester)

  • Strong pathway to permanent residence through employment

  • Excellent public transportation and infrastructure

 

Working Rights
* Work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year
* No restrictions on working as a research assistant
* Unlimited working hours for mandatory internships related to studies
* May need to inform immigration office before starting work
* No working restrictions during semester breaks
* Working knowledge of German often required for most jobs

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Post-Study Options
* 18-month job-seeking visa after graduation
* Can work unrestricted during this period
* Permanent residence possible after two years of working in field of study
* EU Blue Card option for qualified professionals
* Possibility to start a business after graduation

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Application Requirements
* University acceptance letter
* Proof of funds (approximately €11,208 per year in blocked account)
* Health insurance coverage
* German language proficiency (usually B1/B2 for German-taught programs)
* Academic credentials evaluation through uni-assist
* Clean criminal record
* Valid passport

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Germany's student visa system offers unique advantages through its combination of high-quality, affordable education and strong employment prospects. The country's industrial strength, central European location, and pathway to permanent residence make it particularly attractive for students interested in engineering, technology, and research fields. The lack of tuition fees at public universities significantly reduces the financial burden of studying abroad, though students must demonstrate sufficient funds for living expenses.

Ireland​

Ireland offers a welcoming environment for international students with its high-quality education system, English-language instruction, and strong ties to global industries. The Irish student visa (officially called the "Stamp 2" permission) provides several benefits for international students pursuing higher education in Ireland.

 

Advantages

  • Only English-speaking country in the EU after Brexit

  • High-quality education at internationally recognized institutions

  • More affordable than UK with comparable quality

  • Strong presence of global tech companies (Google, Facebook, Apple)

  • Rich cultural experience with strong hospitality tradition

  • Gateway to Europe for travel and networking

  • Lower tuition fees compared to UK, US, or Australia

  • Shorter path to naturalization (2 years) for graduates

  • Strong tech, pharmaceutical, and financial sectors

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 Working Rights

  • Non-EEA students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time

  • Can work full-time (40 hours per week) during scheduled holiday periods

  • Must be enrolled in a full-time course listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP)

  • Part-time work opportunities available in hospitality, retail, and service sectors

 

Post-Study Options
* Graduates of Level 8 (bachelor's degree) programs can stay for 12 months
* Graduates of Level 9 (master's degree) or Level 10 (PhD) can stay for 24 months
* This "Third Level Graduate Scheme" allows graduates to seek employment
* Pathway to work permits and potential long-term residency

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Application Requirements
* Acceptance letter from an Irish higher education institution
* Proof of sufficient funds (approximately €7,000 plus tuition)
* Private health insurance
* English language proficiency (IELTS typically 5.5-6.5 depending on program)
* Clean criminal record

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Ireland's student visa offers a good balance of quality education, work rights, and post-study opportunities, making it an increasingly popular choice for international students seeking education in Europe.

New Zealand​

New Zealand offers an internationally recognized education system with a strong focus on practical skills and innovation. International students need a student visa to study for courses longer than three months.

 

Advantages

  • High-quality education with strong emphasis on practical skills

  • Globally recognized qualifications

  • Smaller class sizes with personalized attention

  • Safe and welcoming environment for international students

  • Unique natural environment and outdoor lifestyle

  • Strong work-life balance

  • Pathway to residence through skilled migration

  • Lower living costs compared to Australia

  • Strong focus on innovation and research

  • Notable strengths in agriculture, engineering, and environmental studies

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Working Rights

  • Work up to 20 hours per week during term time

  • Full-time work rights during scheduled holidays

  • Partners may be eligible for work visas

  • Ph.D. students can work full-time while studying

  • Additional work rights for specific courses with practical components

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Post-Study Options

  • Post-study work visa available for 1-3 years depending on study level:

  • Up to 3 years for bachelor's degree or higher

  • Up to 2 years for lower-level qualifications

  • Pathway to permanent residence through skilled migration

  • Opportunity to bring family members during studies

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Application Requirements

  • Offer of place from an approved New Zealand education provider

  • Proof of sufficient funds (NZ$15,000 per year for living costs)

  • Full medical insurance coverage

  • English language proficiency (varies by institution and program)

  • Clean criminal record

  • Good character requirements

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New Zealand's student visa system offers a balanced approach with its high-quality education, strong practical focus, and generous post-study work rights. The country's unique combination of natural beauty, safe environment, and career opportunities in specialized sectors like agriculture and environmental studies makes it an attractive choice for international students. While the job market may be smaller than other major study destinations, the lower competition and strong work-life balance make it particularly appealing for those seeking a high quality of life during their studies. The pathway to residence through skilled migration and the ability to gain practical work experience make New Zealand an excellent choice for those considering long-term opportunities in the country.

United Kingdom​

The UK offers world-renowned education through its historic institutions and modern research facilities. International students require a Student visa (formerly Tier 4) to study in the UK for courses longer than six months, with streamlined processes for high-ranking institutions.

 

Advantages

  • Prestigious universities with centuries of academic excellence

  • Shorter degree programs (3 years for bachelor's, 1 year for master's)

  • Strong emphasis on independent study and critical thinking

  • Rich cultural heritage and diverse multicultural environment

  • Global financial hub with strong business connections

  • English-language education at its source

  • Strong research funding and facilities

  • Wide range of specialized courses

  • Direct access to Europe's largest financial center

  • Strong creative and technology sectors

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Working Rights

  • Work up to 20 hours per week during term time

  • Full-time during official holidays

  • More hours permitted for research programs (Ph.D. students)

  • No restriction on on-campus work

  • Different rules may apply depending on study level and institution

  • Internship opportunities with global companies

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Post-Study Options

  • Graduate Route visa allowing:

  • 2 years of work for bachelor's and master's graduates

  • 3 years for Ph.D. graduates

  • No job offer required to stay under Graduate Route

  • Possibility to switch to Skilled Worker visa

  • Startup visa options for entrepreneurs

  • Option to apply for other work visas while in the UK

 

Application Requirements

  • Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from licensed sponsor

  • Proof of funds for tuition and living costs

  • English language proficiency (usually IELTS)

  • Clean criminal record

  • Valid passport

  • Tuberculosis test (for some countries)

  • Healthcare surcharge payment​

 

The UK's student visa system combines prestigious education opportunities with post-study work rights through the Graduate Route, making it an attractive destination for international students. While the costs can be higher than other study destinations, the shorter degree programs and strong global recognition of UK qualifications offer good value for many students. The country's rich history, multicultural environment, and strong connections to global industries provide unique opportunities for personal and professional development. Despite Brexit challenges, the UK remains a leading destination for international education, offering a balance of traditional academic excellence and modern career opportunities.

United States of America​

The United States is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities, offering diverse academic programs and extensive research opportunities. International students who wish to study in the U.S. need an F-1 or M-1 visa, depending on their course of study. The F-1 visa is for academic programs, while the M-1 visa is for vocational and technical training programs. The U.S. provides a dynamic learning environment with cutting-edge facilities and a focus on innovation and critical thinking.

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Advantages 

  • Home to top-ranked universities such as Harvard, MIT, and Stanford

  • Extensive research opportunities and funding for graduate students

  • Flexible education system with various majors and elective courses

  • Strong industry connections for internships and employment prospects

  • English-language instruction with global recognition

  • Multicultural environment with students from around the world

  • Access to world-class faculty and state-of-the-art facilities

  • Opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities and student organizations

  • Large international student community with dedicated support services

 

Working Rights

  • F-1 students can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during the academic year

  • Full-time work allowed during official school breaks

  • Off-campus employment requires special authorization (e.g., Optional Practical Training - OPT, Curricular Practical Training - CPT)

  • M-1 students have limited work rights, primarily restricted to practical training after course completion

  • Internships and cooperative education opportunities available through CPT for eligible students

 

Post-Study Options

  • Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 students to work for up to 12 months after graduation, with an additional 24-month extension for STEM graduates

  • H-1B visa sponsorship opportunities for skilled professionals

  • Potential pathways to permanent residency through employer sponsorship

  • Academic Training for J-1 visa holders in research or teaching roles

  • Entrepreneurial options available through visa programs like the O-1 (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability) or E-2 (Investor Visa)

 

Application Requirements

  • Form I-20 issued by a SEVP-approved institution

  • Proof of sufficient financial funds to cover tuition and living expenses

  • English language proficiency (usually TOEFL or IELTS)

  • Valid passport

  • SEVIS fee payment

  • Visa application (DS-160 form) and interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate

  • Strong academic records and intent to return to home country after studies

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The U.S. student visa system provides international students access to world-class education, advanced research opportunities, and industry connections. While studying in the U.S. can be expensive, students benefit from flexible study programs, extensive career opportunities, and a global network. Despite visa challenges, the U.S. remains a top destination for students seeking academic and professional growth in a highly competitive environment.

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