How much savings do I need to show for a student visa for countries like Germany, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK?

Every one of these six countries requires you to prove you can cover a year of living costs before granting a student visa, but the exact amount and how you prove it differs sharply by destination. Use the table below to see exactly what you need to arrange for your specific country.

Minimum living cost requirements

Details worth double checking

• These figures are living costs only, except in Germany. You must add your full or partial first year tuition on top, which is listed on documents like your UK CAS.
• The UK's 28 day rule is strict: your balance must not dip below the threshold for even a day within that 28 day window.
• Most countries, especially the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, also check three to six months of account history to rule out funds parked right before your application.

My Advice

Open whichever proof-of-funds instrument your country requires, a blocked account for Germany or a GIC for Canada, at least two months before your visa appointment, since processing these accounts often takes longer than students expect. Never make a large, unexplained deposit right before applying; build your balance gradually so your bank statements tell a clean, consistent story.