A student visa is a special endorsement added to a government passport issued to students enrolled at qualified educational institutions. Student visas are non-immigrant visas that do not require the holder to obtain citizenship. Any prospective student seeking higher education in another country must obtain a student visa from that country.

Most countries will issue student visas to allow foreign students to attend school within their borders. However, in most cases, the student must first be enrolled at a post-secondary institution of higher learning.