Easing visa-based access to studies abroad for Palestinian students

In light of ongoing global developments and their impact on higher education, students’ rights and mobility, the European student movement reaffirms its commitment to active citizenship and protecting students in vulnerable positions. Given that the higher education infrastructure in Gaza has been completely destroyed, we, the undersigned,  underline that Palestinian students in Gaza and the West Bank continue to face severe restrictions in accessing education and highlight the need for accessible and safe pathways for Palestinian students to continue their education in Europe. 

Study-based residence permits and visas are essential components for students at risk. Immigration policies directly affect students’ ability to continue their education in another country. Visa-dependent students go through an extensive immigration process, submitting proof of sufficient funds along with numerous other documents, to ensure they are able to continue their education in peace. However, one of the key challenges for Palestinian students in Gaza, who have been admitted for studies abroad, is that they cannot leave Gaza, whereas Palestinian students in the West Bank face severe movement restrictions.

With effective coordination and advocacy work between student organisations, higher education institutions, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Justice in Ireland, 52 Palestinian students from Gaza, who have been admitted to study in local universities, were able to leave and continue their studies in Ireland as of September 2025. However, approximately 90 000 Palestinian students still remain without access to higher education in Gaza, emphasizing the need for immediate solutions to alleviate the educational crisis.  

Therefore, we demand:

• Coordinated efforts between higher education institutions, immigration services, student organisations and state representatives to ensure admitted Palestinian students can continue their education without barriers.
• Extending existing Students at Risk programmes across the European Higher Education Area to ensure the continuation of studies. 
• The recognition of Palestinian Authority-issued passports as valid travel documents for study-based visa and residence procedures, and ensuring students are not denied their right to education due to mobility restrictions.