Choosing the right country for higher education is one of the most important decisions for Saudi students. Education is not only about earning a degree. It is also about long-term career growth, quality of life, and future settlement options. This is why many families actively search for the best countries for Saudi students to study and settle.
Today, several countries are accepting Saudi students with strong education systems, post-study work options, and clear permanent residency pathways. In this article, we explore the most suitable destinations, explain why they work for Saudi students, and share expert insights to help you make the right choice.
Why Saudi Students Prefer Studying Abroad
Saudi students often look beyond their local universities to gain global exposure, advanced research opportunities, and international work experience. Studying abroad improves language skills, builds professional networks, and increases employability.
Many Saudi students also plan long-term settlement. They want countries that allow graduates to work after studies and later apply for permanent residency. This long-term vision plays a key role when choosing from the best countries for Saudi students to study and settle.
What Makes a Country Ideal for Study and Settlement
Not every popular study destination is good for settlement. Saudi students should consider factors like post-study work visas, demand for skilled professionals, cost of living, cultural acceptance, and immigration policies.
Countries that offer a clear transition from student visa to work visa and permanent residency are usually preferred. Supportive student policies and strong job markets increase the chances of long-term success.
Canada as a Top Choice for Saudi Students
Canada consistently ranks among the best countries for Saudi students to study and settle in. It offers world-class universities, affordable education compared to other Western countries, and welcoming immigration policies.
Saudi students in Canada can work part-time during studies and full-time after graduation under the Post-Graduation Work Permit. This work experience helps them qualify for permanent residency through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.
Many Saudi graduates in fields like engineering, healthcare, and IT successfully settle in Canada within a few years of completing their studies.
Read Also – Permanent Residency in Saudi Arabia
Australia and Its Post-Study Opportunities
Australia attracts Saudi students with high-quality education and a strong lifestyle. Universities focus on practical learning, which helps graduates enter the job market faster.
After completing their studies, Saudi students can apply for temporary graduate visas that allow them to gain work experience. Skilled graduates may later qualify for permanent residency through points-based immigration programmes.
Australia remains one of the best countries for Saudi students to study and settle in due to its structured pathways and strong demand for skilled workers.

United Kingdom and Graduate Route Visa
The United Kingdom is a popular destination for Saudi students, especially for business, medicine, and engineering programmes.
The Graduate Route visa allows international students to stay and work in the UK for up to two years after graduation. While settlement pathways are more competitive, skilled professionals with employer sponsorship can transition to long-term visas.
For Saudi students seeking global exposure and career growth, the UK remains a strong option.
Germany and Affordable Education
Germany offers high-quality education with low or no tuition fees at public universities. This makes it attractive for Saudi students looking for affordable study options.
Graduates can stay in Germany to search for jobs and later apply for permanent residency. Strong demand for engineers, researchers, and technical professionals improves settlement chances.
Germany is increasingly recognised among the best countries for Saudi students to study and settle, especially for science and technology fields.
New Zealand and Student-Friendly Policies
New Zealand offers a peaceful environment, quality education, and supportive student policies.
Saudi students can work during studies and apply for post-study work visas after graduation. Skilled employment can lead to residency pathways.
The country’s smaller population and skill shortages make it easier for qualified graduates to secure jobs and settle long-term.
Real-Life Example of a Saudi Student Success Story
Faisal, a Saudi student, chose Canada for his master’s degree in data science. During his studies, he worked part-time and built industry connections.
After graduation, he secured a full-time job under a post-study work permit. Within three years, he applied for permanent residency and settled in Toronto.
His journey shows how choosing the right country from the best countries for Saudi students to study and settle in can shape a successful future.
Common Challenges Saudi Students Face Abroad
Saudi students may face challenges like cultural adjustment, language barriers, and managing finances.
However, countries with strong international student support systems make the transition smoother. Proper planning, choosing the right course, and understanding visa rules reduce these challenges significantly.
How Professional Education Consultants Help
Education and immigration consultants guide students in course selection, university applications, visa processing, and long-term planning.
They align academic choices with immigration goals. This approach increases the chances of both academic success and settlement.
Professional guidance is especially helpful for families looking for secure futures abroad.
How The Pathfinder Visa Supports Saudi Students
The Pathfinder Visa assists Saudi students with study abroad planning and future settlement strategies.
From selecting the right country and course to understanding post-study work and residency options, the team provides clear and honest guidance.
This long-term-focused approach helps students and parents make informed decisions.
Final Thoughts on the Best Countries for Saudi Students to Study and Settle
Choosing from the best countries for Saudi students to study and settle requires careful evaluation of education quality, work opportunities, and immigration policies.
Canada, Australia, the UK, Germany, and New Zealand offer strong pathways for Saudi students who plan wisely. With the right guidance, studying abroad can lead to a stable and successful future.
If you are planning international education with long-term settlement in mind, expert advice can help you choose the right destination and avoid costly mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country is best for Saudi students to study and settle in?
Canada is often considered the best due to its education quality, post-study work options, and clear residency pathways.
Can Saudi students get permanent residency after studies?
Yes, many countries allow students to transition to work visas and later apply for permanent residency.
Is studying abroad expensive for Saudi students?
Costs vary by country. Germany and Canada offer more affordable options compared to others.
Do Saudi students need consultants to study abroad?
It is not mandatory, but professional guidance helps align education choices with settlement goals.
Which country offers easy post-study work visas?
Canada, Australia, and New Zealand offer structured post-study work opportunities.
