Study in Portugal vs Sweden: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Portugal 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 | Portugal | Sweden |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 9,120 EUR | 127,872 SEK |
| Living cost (per month) | 760 EUR | 10,656 SEK |
| Visa fee | 90 EUR | 1,500 SEK |
| Typical processing time | ~8 weeks | ~12 weeks |
| Main intakes | Feb, Sep | 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: Portugal vs Sweden
- Portugal needs less money up front — about €9,120/year versus €11,316 for Sweden (≈ €2,196 less).
- Portugal 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 Portugal
- Admission to a Portuguese institution
- Means of subsistence
- Health insurance
- Language proof
- Criminal record certificate
- Proof of accommodation
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
- Accommodation
Get matched with a vetted study-abroad consultant for your destination. Free, no obligation.
Get matched →Sponsored matching service. We may earn a referral fee. Informational only — we don't process applications.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Portugal or Sweden?
By proof of funds, Portugal is cheaper — €9,120/year versus €11,316 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, Portugal or Sweden?
Portugal typically processes faster (~8 weeks vs ~12). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Portugal or Sweden?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. Portugal needs less money up front — about €9,120/year versus €11,316 for Sweden (≈ €2,196 less). Portugal is typically faster to process (~8 weeks vs ~12 for Sweden). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.