Study in Belgium vs Germany: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Belgium and Germany— the funds you must show, living costs, fees, processing time and document load. Figures are sourced from each country's official pages and date-verified.
| Factor | Belgium | Germany |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 12,744 EUR | 11,904 EUR✓ lower required funds |
| Living cost (per month) | 1,062 EUR | 992 EUR✓ lower living cost |
| Visa fee | 215 EUR | 75 EUR✓ lower visa fee |
| Typical processing time | ~8 weeks | ~8 weeks |
| Main intakes | Feb, Sep | Apr, Oct |
| Required documents | 5 | 5 |
Funds are shown in each country's own currency, so “lower” is only marked when currencies match. Always confirm current figures on the official sources below.
Verdict: Belgium vs Germany
- Germany needs less money up front — about €11,904/year versus €12,744 for Belgium (≈ €840 less).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
Unique to Belgium
- Enrolment at a recognised institution
- Means of subsistence
- Health insurance
- Language proof
- Medical certificate
- Tuition / funds transfer
- Accommodation
Unique to Germany
- University admission or conditional admission letter
- Proof of financial resources (blocked account)
- Health insurance valid in Germany
- Proof of language proficiency
- APS certificate (nationality-dependent)
- Tuition / proof-of-funds transfer
- Proof of accommodation (often requested)
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Belgium or Germany?
By proof of funds, Germany is cheaper — €11,904/year versus €12,744 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, Belgium or Germany?
Belgium typically processes faster (~8 weeks vs ~8). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Belgium or Germany?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. Germany needs less money up front — about €11,904/year versus €12,744 for Belgium (≈ €840 less). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.