Residence
while studying

Status for the duration of enrolment at an accredited institution — the cheapest entry bar in practice (unlike INCOME and NOMAD, the requirement is enrolment, not income), but tied to studying and usually with a limited right to work.

A good fit if

You have an offer or a real plan to enrol at an accredited university or college.

You can prove financial means for the full study period — a modest sum compared to other categories.

A limited part-time work allowance during studies (typically 20–30 hours a week) works for you.

A poor fit if

You have no genuine intention to study — a student visa is not a substitute for a work or investment route.

You need a direct path to permanent residence or citizenship: student years almost never count in full toward naturalisation.

You plan to work full-time while studying — the hour cap is strict almost everywhere.

How it differs from neighbouring categories

Unlike NOMAD, it does not require work income — only enrolment and proof of funds. Unlike INCOME, the status is tied to studying rather than ongoing income, and ends when the programme does.