Temporary Residence in Europe through Study | Guide to Obtaining a Study TRP in Europe 2025
What is a Study TRP and how does it lead to legal residence in Europe?
Temporary residence in Europe through a TRP (Temporary Residence Permit) for international students is one of the most reliable and legal ways to pursue study migration to Europe. This type of permit allows foreign students to reside legally in a European country during their studies and enjoy social, educational, and even employment benefits.
What is a Study TRP and how does it lead to legal residence in Europe?
Definition of TRP for international students
A TRP, or Temporary Residence Permit, is a temporary residence authorization that allows international students to reside legally in a European country for the duration of their studies. This type of residence is usually valid for 1 to 2 years and can be extended.
Difference between a study TRP and other temporary residencies
While temporary work or family residencies have different requirements, a study TRP is specifically for students and is directly linked to university admission.
Countries that offer a study TRP
Countries such as Germany, France, Poland, Spain, Portugal, Lithuania, the Netherlands, and Hungary are among the destinations that issue TRPs to foreign students.
Benefits of obtaining a study TRP in Europe
Legal residence during studies
You can legally reside in the destination country for the entire duration of your studies without worrying about your immigration status.
Permission to work while studying
Most European countries allow international students to work part-time, usually up to 20 hours per week.
Ability to travel within the Schengen area
TRP holders in Schengen countries can travel to other member states without needing a new visa.
Convertibility to a work or permanent residence
After graduation, many countries provide the possibility to convert a student residence permit into a work or even permanent residence permit.
Requirements for obtaining temporary study residence in Europe
Admission from a recognized European university
The first requirement for obtaining a TRP is having an official admission from a recognized university or higher education institution in Europe.
Language certificate approved by the destination country
Documents such as IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, or DELF may be required depending on the destination country.
Sufficient financial means to cover living expenses
You must prove that you can cover living, tuition, and insurance costs in the destination country (usually at least 7,000 to 12,000 euros per year).
Valid health insurance
Having student or international health insurance for the duration of your stay is mandatory.
Comparison of study TRP conditions in different European countries
Valid health insurance
| Country | Initial TRP Duration | Renewal Possible | Student Work Permit | TRP Issuance Fee | Possibility of Permanent Residence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | 2 years | ✅ Yes | 20 hours per week | 100 to 150 euros | Very high |
| France | 1 year | ✅ Yes | 960 hours per year | About 99 euros | High |
| Poland | 1 year | ✅ Yes | Full-time during holidays | 80 to 120 euros | Medium |
| Spain | 1 year | ✅ Yes | 20 hours per week | 60 to 100 euros | High |
| Lithuania | 1 year | ✅ Yes | 20 hours per week | 70 to 90 euros | High |
Comparison of study TRP conditions in different European countries
Comparative table of study residence
Submitting academic documents, resume, motivation letter, and language certificate to European universities and obtaining official admission.
Steps to obtain a study TRP in Europe
After receiving admission, apply for a student visa by submitting the required documents to the embassy of the destination country.
Step 3 – Entering the country and applying for a TRP
Upon arrival, within the specified period (e.g., 90 days), you must visit the immigration office and apply for a TRP.
Step 4 – Receiving the temporary residence card
If your documents are approved, a study TRP card will be issued, usually valid until the end of your study program or for one year, and it can be renewed. Having student or international health insurance for the duration of your stay is mandatory.
24 Frequently Asked Questions about study residence in Europe (TRP)
Are international students allowed to work?
Yes, in almost all European countries, international students are allowed to work part-time.
Can the residence be extended after graduation?
Yes, some countries extend post-study residence for job searching or official employment.Is it possible to obtain a TRP without a language certificate?
No, having a language certificate is one of the main requirements for obtaining university admission and residence.
Can a TRP lead to permanent residence?
If, after graduation, you enter the job market and meet the required conditions, you can obtain permanent residence.
Is it possible to bring family members with a study TRP?
Yes, in many countries, such as Germany or France, it is possible to obtain a dependent visa for your spouse and children.