Germany emerged as the leading country in the European Union for issuing study permits to non-EU citizens, according to recent data. Out of the 450,000 study permits granted across the EU, Germany accounted for 144,464, making up nearly one-third of the total. This puts Germany at the forefront of European destinations for international students.
France followed closely, granting 116,950 study permits, which represents 25.9% of the total EU authorisations. Spain came in third with 55,436 study permits issued.
The Netherlands and Sweden also saw significant numbers of international students, issuing 27,922 and 13,910 permits, respectively, placing them in the fourth and fifth positions among EU countries.
At the other end of the spectrum, Malta issued fewer than 50 study permits in 2023, marking the lowest number of permits granted by an EU member state during the year.
This data highlights Germany's role as a prime destination for higher education in Europe, while also reflecting the growing demand for study opportunities across the continent.