Do you need a visa to study in Germany?

Only citizens of the following countries can study in Germany without a visa:

• EEA/EU citizens.
• Australia.
• Andorra.
• Brazil.
• Canada.
• El Salvador*
• Honduras.
• Israel.
• Japan.
• Monaco.
• New Zealand.
• San Marino.
• Switzerland.
• United States.
• South Korea.

*A visa is only required if they want to work during or after their studies in Germany.

However, everyone must register with the local resident registration office and the foreigner registration office two weeks after arriving in Germany.

Citizens of other countries not mentioned above must apply for a German student visa.

Documents required for a German student visa

You must submit the following documents to apply for any visa to study German:

• Duly completed application form for a student visa to Germany.
• Your valid passport. It must be valid for an additional six months before the date of your departure from Germany and have at least one blank page.
• Certificate of civil status.
• Marriage certificate.
• Birth certificate.
• Birth certificates of children.
• Death certificate of the spouse.
• A ration card, if available.
• Two photos. The photos must be of high quality and identical.
• Copies of previous visas.
• Proof of residence in Germany. You must provide proof that you have a place to live during your studies in Germany.
• Proof of student health insurance for the entire period of stay in Germany.
• When applying for a visa for language courses: a motivation letter for attending language courses.
• Resume. Include evidence of any previous and current internships and jobs with your resume.
• The minimum amount of financial resources is at least EUR 10,332 per year or EUR 861 per month. Accepted as evidence:
• Personal financial statements for the last three months.
• Certificate of scholarship award.
• Written confirmation from your parents or sponsor that he/she will cover your expenses.
• A "blocked" bank account. Also known as Sperrkonto.
• School-leaving certificates are recognized.
• Application confirmation. This is usually an email from the university confirming that you have successfully submitted your application.
• A certificate of admission to a preparatory course. In German, this is called "Propedeutische Kurs" or a letter of confirmation of enrollment in a German language course (which includes at least 18 hours of lessons per week).
• A recognized Abitur school leaving certificate. Or its equivalent.
• Proof of knowledge of German or English (depending on the language of the lessons).
• Proof of previous education. Certificate of previous degrees.
• If accepted to the university:
• Letter of acceptance from the university. A document, a letter of admission to a university, confirming your application for study and the offered place to study in the program to which you have applied.
• Certificates of previous education. Provide all certificates of previous formal and non-formal education.
• Cover letter. Use it to explain your reasons for choosing the university, the program, your study plan, and your plans for how these studies will improve your career in the future.
• For programs in German, international students must provide TestDaf or DSH results. Whereas for courses in English, students will have to provide TOEFL or IELTS results.

When can you apply for a German student visa?

The application for a student visa for Germany together with the required documents should be submitted at least 8 weeks before the date of travel to Germany to avoid any possible delays.

Where can you apply for a student visa in Germany?

You must apply for a German student visa at the German consulate or embassy in your home country. Your passport will remain at the embassy/consulate where you applied for the duration of the visa process. If you need to withdraw your passport for any reason, be it travel or otherwise, you will have to reapply from the beginning.

How to apply for a student visa to Germany?

To apply for a German student visa, you need to go through the following steps:

• Fill out the application form for a student visa to Germany.
• Gather the necessary documents.
• Schedule an appointment.
• Apply to the visa center for an interview.
• Pay the German student visa fee.
• Submit your biometric data.
• Wait for processing.

Upon arrival in Germany with a student visa

With a German student visa, you can travel freely in the country. Once you arrive in Germany, you need to follow a few steps to make your stay in Germany legal.

Register your address in Germany. You must register your address at the registration office that is closest to your home in Germany. You will need an identity document, your visa, and a rental agreement or other proof of your address.

Apply for a student residence permit in Germany. Once you have registered your address, you must apply for a student residence permit in Germany. Please note that you have 90 days from the day you enter Germany to do this. First, you need to make an appointment at the immigration office closest to your place of residence in Germany. You can also get an application form there. On the day of the interview, you will need to submit this form and the required documents.

Will you be able to work in Germany with a German study visa?

International students in Germany are allowed to work with a German visa while studying, but the number of hours they can work is limited.

Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland are free to work in Germany for a maximum of 20 hours per week during the semester (including volunteer work).

Students from other countries are also allowed to work, but they cannot exceed more than 120 full days per year or 240 half days. Unused days are not carried over to the next year.

International students with a residence permit who want to work in Germany after graduation can extend their permit for up to 18 months if they have found a job in their field of study.

Graduates from EU/EEA countries can stay and look for work without any restrictions or permits. After two years of work in Germany, you can apply for permanent residency in Germany.

The student residence permit is a German residence permit for those who wish to study in Germany. It is a German residence permit that can be obtained for the following purposes:

• For admission to a university/college.
• Participate in an educational exchange program.
• Sign up for preparatory courses for studying.
• Sign up for preparatory language courses.
• Sign up for professional training and internships.

Who needs a residence permit in Germany?

Anyone (except EU, EEA and Swiss citizens) who wants to study in Germany for more than three months must obtain a residence permit from the German Federal Office for Foreigners (Ausländerbehörde).

Citizens of the following non-EU countries can enter Germany and apply for a residence permit. All others must apply in advance for a national study visa (D) at a German embassy.

• Australia
• United Kingdom
• Brazil
• El Salvador
• Honduras
• Israel
• Japan
• Canada
• Monaco
• New Zealand
• San Marino
• South Korea
• United States of America

Requirements for obtaining a student residence permit in Germany

To apply for a student residence permit in Germany, you need to submit several documents to the BAMF. If you came to Germany on a national student visa, you need to submit the documents listed below when applying for a residence permit:

• Standard documents required to obtain a residence permit in Germany.
• Proof of admission/enrollment in an educational institution. Depending on what you will be studying in Germany during your stay, you must submit proof of admission or enrollment in that school/university/college.
• Certified certificates of previous education. School diplomas/certificates, report cards, etc.
• Registered address. When you register your address in Germany, you will receive a confirmation document. Present this document at the immigration office as proof of your address registration.
• Health insurance for international students in Germany. Health insurance in Germany is compulsory for everyone applying for a residence permit. Make sure that your insurance is acceptable in Germany and covers accidents, illness, and repatriation in case of death.
• Proof of financial solvency. You have to prove that you have the means to support yourself financially during your stay in Germany, which can be done by
• Blocked bank account.
• Letter of commitment. A letter written by a person living in Germany who undertakes to cover all your expenses during your stay in Germany, including living and study expenses.
• Proof of scholarship award. If you have received a scholarship that covers your expenses, you only need to provide a confirmation letter issued, signed and stamped by the organization/institution that provided you with the scholarship.
• Proof of German/English language proficiency. Depending on which language you will be studying in Germany, you will need to provide proof that you have the required level of German or English.

How to apply for a student residence permit in Germany?

To apply for a residence permit in Germany, you must follow certain steps. The application process may differ depending on your nationality and the specific reason you are applying.

1. Get the right German national visa

In order to be able to travel to Germany, you first need to obtain one of the following German long-term visas:

• German student visa.
• Visa for language courses in Germany.
• German student visa for internships.

The process of obtaining a visa to study in Germany is almost the same as for all German long-term visas. The only difference is the required documents. Without a visa, you will not be able to travel to Germany and obtain a residence permit.

PLEASE NOTE that you cannot apply for a student residence permit in Germany on a short-term visa.

2. Register your address in Germany

After receiving your German visa, you are free to travel to Germany. Upon arrival, you must register your address in Germany within two weeks. Register your address at the registration office nearest to your place of residence.

3. Apply for a student residence permit in Germany.

After that, you can apply for a student residence permit in Germany.

PLEASE NOTE that you have 90 days from the date of entry into Germany to do so.

The application process is simple and quick. First, you need to make an appointment at the immigration office closest to your place of residence in Germany. You can also get an application form there.

On the day of the interview, you will need to submit this application form and the required documents;

How much does it cost to get a residence permit in Germany?

A residence permit in Germany can cost between 56 and 100 euros, depending on your situation. You will have to pay this fee when you submit your application to the immigration office.

Procedure for applying for a student residence permit in Germany

The procedure for obtaining a student residence permit in Germany takes two to three weeks. You will receive a notification from the immigration office about the decision on your application.

Validity of a student residence permit in Germany

The German Immigration Service issues students a residence permit for the duration of their studies. If you do not complete your studies within the validity period of your residence permit, you can apply for an extension.

Germany offers preparatory programs for applicants that are designed to help students acquire the necessary knowledge and language skills to succeed in their desired programs. Here are some of the most common preparatory programs in Germany:

Studienkolleg (preparatory course for university studies) 

The Studienkolleg is a one-year preparatory program for international students who have completed secondary education in a foreign education system that is not recognized as equivalent to a German high school diploma (Abitur). The program consists of subject courses that prepare students for university studies and also includes a language component to improve their German language skills. Successful completion of the Studienkolleg gives the right to direct admission to German universities.

Language courses

Germany offers intensive language courses, such as the Intensive German Course for University Entrance (DSH) and TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache), which focus on developing German language skills. These courses are especially useful for international students who need to meet the language requirements for their chosen study programs.

Preparatory courses

Some universities and private institutions offer preparatory courses that prepare students academically and linguistically for higher education. These courses typically cover a wide range of subjects, including language training, math, science, and social studies. Preparatory courses help students fill in knowledge gaps and build a strong academic foundation before starting their studies.

Preparatory programs

Preparatory programs are designed to provide additional support to students who need extra preparation before starting their studies. These programs offer academic and language support, study skills training, and specialized courses to help students make a smooth transition to higher education programs. These programs are especially useful for students with non-traditional backgrounds or those who need additional support to meet the requirements of their chosen program.

Pathway programs

Pathway programs are offered by specific universities or private institutions and provide a structured pathway for international students to progress from preparatory courses to a full degree program. These programs combine language training, academic courses, and support services to ensure a smooth transition to higher education.

International students in Germany have the opportunity to work part-time while studying to support themselves financially and gain valuable work experience;

Regulations of work

As an international student in Germany, you are generally entitled to work part-time for up to 120 full days or 240 part-time days per year without the need to obtain a work permit. However, there may be restrictions on the type of work you can do, for example, you are not allowed to work in self-employed positions or work in certain regulated professions. It is important to check the specific rules and restrictions that apply to your situation.

Jobs for students

German universities often offer students work placements within the institution itself. These jobs can be administrative, research-related, or assisting in teaching. These positions can provide valuable experience and an opportunity to work in your field of study. University job boards, career centers, or student services are good places to find out about available positions.

Collaborative learning programs

Cooperative learning programs (also known as "dual enrollment programs") combine academic study with practical work experience. These programs are offered by some universities in partnership with companies. Students alternate between periods of academic study and internships in relevant industries. Cooperative education programs are particularly common in fields such as engineering, business, and applied sciences.

Part-time work

Students can also look for part-time jobs outside the university. The most common part-time jobs are working in restaurants, cafes, retail stores, call centers or tutoring. There are often many job opportunities in large German cities. Online job portals and local job boards can help you find part-time work.

Internships

An internship is a great way to gain professional experience and develop the skills needed to work in a specific field. Many universities and companies in Germany offer internships for students. Internships can be paid or unpaid, full-time or part-time. They provide valuable practical experience and the opportunity to network with professionals in your field. University career services and online job portals are good resources for finding internship opportunities.

Knowledge of the German language

Although you can find English-language jobs, a good knowledge of German can greatly enhance your job prospects. Many employers prefer candidates with a good command of German, especially for positions that involve communication with customers. Taking language courses or participating in language exchange programs can help improve your language skills and increase your chances of finding a job.

Networking and internships

Building a professional network and looking for internships can increase your chances of finding a job in Germany. Attend job fairs, networking events, and industry meetings to network with professionals in your field of interest. An internship can provide practical experience, develop relevant skills and potentially lead to future employment opportunities.

Career services

Take advantage of the career development services offered by your university. They can provide guidance on job search strategies, help with resume writing, offer interview preparation, and connect you with potential employers. These services can be helpful in navigating the German labor market and gaining access to employment opportunities.

Germany provides a range of services and resources to help international students adapt to life in a new country.

International offices

Most universities in Germany have dedicated international offices or services for international students. These offices serve as a central point of contact for international students and provide assistance with various issues including admission, enrollment, visa issues, residence permits, and general support throughout the entire period of study.

Student organizations and friendship programs

Many universities have student organizations or friendship programs that aim to facilitate the integration of international students into the student community. These programs bring newly arrived international students together with students already at the university and can provide guidance, support and assistance in navigating university life and settling in in Germany.

Orientation programs

Universities often organize orientation programs specifically designed for international students. These programs provide information about the academic system, campus infrastructure, local culture, administrative procedures, and resources available to students. Orientation programs provide an opportunity to meet other international students and build a social network.

Academic support

Academic support services such as writing centers, language support, and tutoring programs are available at many German universities. These services can help international students develop their academic skills, improve their language proficiency, and adapt to the academic expectations and demands in Germany.

Counseling and psychological services

Universities in Germany offer counseling and psychological services to support students' mental health and well-being. These services provide confidential counseling, workshops, and resources to help students cope with stress, homesickness, personal problems, and other psychological issues. Counseling centers can offer support in different languages.

Medical services

International students in Germany are generally required to have health insurance. Universities often provide information and assistance in obtaining health insurance. Student health centers or clinics on university campuses offer medical services and consultations for minor illnesses and injuries. In case of more serious health problems, students are referred to local medical facilities.

Assistance with accommodation

Universities often assist international students in finding suitable accommodation options. They can offer advice on student dormitories, private rentals or shared apartments. International offices can provide guidance on rental agreements, rights and obligations, ensuring a smooth transition to life in Germany.

Cultural and social events

Many universities organize cultural and social events to promote interaction and cultural exchange among students. These activities may include language courses, intercultural seminars, excursions, festivals and international student reunions. Participation in such events can help international students to socialize with their peers, learn about German culture and build a social network.