Study in Belgium vs France: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Belgium and France— 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 | France |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 12,744 EUR | 7,380 EUR✓ lower required funds |
| Living cost (per month) | 1,062 EUR | 615 EUR✓ lower living cost |
| Visa fee | 215 EUR | 50 EUR✓ lower visa fee |
| Typical processing time | ~8 weeks | ~3 weeks✓ faster processing |
| Main intakes | Feb, Sep | Jan, Sep |
| 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 France
- France needs less money up front — about €7,380/year versus €12,744 for Belgium (≈ €5,364 less).
- France is typically faster to process (~3 weeks vs ~8 for Belgium).
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
- Medical certificate
- Accommodation
Unique to France
- Acceptance from a French institution
- Études en France procedure (nationality-dependent)
- Proof of financial means
- Proof of accommodation
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Belgium or France?
By proof of funds, France is cheaper — €7,380/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 France?
France typically processes faster (~3 weeks vs ~8). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Belgium or France?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. France needs less money up front — about €7,380/year versus €12,744 for Belgium (≈ €5,364 less). France is typically faster to process (~3 weeks vs ~8 for Belgium). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.