A student visa is a legal immigration document issued to students by another country that allows them to study for a certain period of time. Student visas are commonly used by students at College & Universities and specialty institutions. Prospective students are generally required to apply for and obtain a student visa before they start school in the host country. These visas are considered non-immigrant visas, which means holders must abide by certain rules to retain their status and stay in the country. Being granted a student visa doesn't necessarily grant individuals the same rights and privileges as citizens, such as voting.