Study in Canada vs Spain: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Canada and Spain— 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 | Canada | Spain |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 22,895 CAD | 7,200 EUR |
| Living cost (per month) | 1,908 CAD | 600 EUR |
| Visa fee | 150 CAD | 80 EUR |
| Typical processing time | ~8 weeks | ~4 weeks |
| Main intakes | Jan, May, Sep | Sep, Jan |
| Required documents | 7 | 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: Canada vs Spain
- Spain needs less money up front — about €7,200/year versus €15,575 for Canada (≈ €8,375 less).
- Spain is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~8 for Canada).
- Spain asks for fewer required documents (5).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
Unique to Canada
- Letter of acceptance (LOA)
- Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL)
- Proof of financial support
- Health insurance
- English/French language proof
- Biometrics
- Medical exam
- GIC / tuition transfer
- Accommodation
Unique to Spain
- Admission to an approved course
- Financial means (IPREM)
- Private health insurance
- Language proof
- Criminal record certificate
- Medical certificate
- Proof of accommodation
- Tuition / funds transfer
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Canada or Spain?
By proof of funds, Spain is cheaper — €7,200/year versus €15,575 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, Canada or Spain?
Spain typically processes faster (~4 weeks vs ~8). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Canada or Spain?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. Spain needs less money up front — about €7,200/year versus €15,575 for Canada (≈ €8,375 less). Spain is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~8 for Canada). Spain asks for fewer required documents (5). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.