Student for British citizens travelling to Schengen area
Short courses can fall under the visa-free stay. A degree or longer study needs a national student visa from the host country.
For a full British citizen passport. Other British passport types can follow a different rule.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Short training or language courses within 90 days, or longer degree programmes. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | Up to 90 days in 180 days if the course fits a short stay; longer study needs a national visa. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | No Schengen visa fee for a qualifying short course; longer study fees are set nationally. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Processing time | Short courses may need no visa; longer study uses national student visas. Check processing times on the embassy website of the country where you will study. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | For stays beyond the short-stay rule, apply to the embassy of the country where you will study. · GOV.UK France entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
Apply only on the government website linked above. This site does not issue visas or travel authorisations and does not take applications. Other websites charge their own service fee on top of any government charge.
How to apply
- Check course length against the 90-day Schengen limit.
- If the course is longer, apply for a national student visa before travel.
- Carry enrolment evidence and funds proof if asked at the border.
FAQ
Can I study for a semester visa-free?
A semester usually exceeds 90 days and needs a student visa.
Does ETIAS cover students?
When ETIAS opens it is for visa-free travel authorisation, not a substitute for a student visa.
Sources
- GOV.UK: France entry requirements, including Schengen passport rules, the 90-day stay, and EES (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: countries using the Entry/Exit System (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: who should apply for ETIAS, including the note that it is not in operation (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: ETIAS questions, including the EUR 20 fee and three-year validity (opens in a new tab)
- European Union: UK nationals and ETIAS, news item dated 15 April 2026 (opens in a new tab)
Independent guide, not legal advice. Entry Visa Guide is an independent information site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or run by any government or public authority. Always check official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Report an error.