Study in Germany vs Sweden: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Germany and Sweden— 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 | Sweden |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 11,904 EUR | 127,872 SEK |
| Living cost (per month) | 992 EUR | 10,656 SEK |
| Visa fee | 75 EUR | 1,500 SEK |
| Typical processing time | ~8 weeks | ~12 weeks |
| Main intakes | Apr, Oct | Jan, Aug |
| 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 Sweden
- Sweden needs less money up front — about €11,316/year versus €11,904 for Germany (≈ €588 less).
- Germany is typically faster to process (~8 weeks vs ~12 for Sweden).
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 Sweden
- Notification of admission (Antagning.se)
- Maintenance requirement (proof of funds)
- Tuition fees paid (non-EU/EEA)
- Comprehensive health insurance
- English language proof
- Tuition / funds transfer
- Accommodation
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Germany or Sweden?
By proof of funds, Sweden is cheaper — €11,316/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 Sweden?
Germany typically processes faster (~8 weeks vs ~12). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Germany or Sweden?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. Sweden needs less money up front — about €11,316/year versus €11,904 for Germany (≈ €588 less). Germany is typically faster to process (~8 weeks vs ~12 for Sweden). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.