Study in Germany vs Spain: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Germany 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 | Germany | Spain |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 11,904 EUR | 7,200 EUR✓ lower required funds |
| Living cost (per month) | 992 EUR | 600 EUR✓ lower living cost |
| Visa fee | 75 EUR✓ lower visa fee | 80 EUR |
| Typical processing time | ~8 weeks | ~4 weeks✓ faster processing |
| Main intakes | Apr, Oct | Sep, Jan |
| 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: Germany vs Spain
- Spain needs less money up front — about €7,200/year versus €11,904 for Germany (≈ €4,704 less).
- Spain is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~8 for Germany).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
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)
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 Germany or Spain?
By proof of funds, Spain is cheaper — €7,200/year versus €11,904 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, Germany or Spain?
Spain typically processes faster (~4 weeks vs ~8). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Germany or Spain?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. Spain needs less money up front — about €7,200/year versus €11,904 for Germany (≈ €4,704 less). Spain is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~8 for Germany). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.