Students planning to pursue higher education in Germany must obtain a student visa before starting their studies, according to Germany Visa, an information portal on German visa requirements.
The visa is intended for international students enrolled in a study programme at a German educational institution. It is issued as a long-stay national D visa, allows multiple entries, and is generally valid for two years, with the possibility of a further two-year extension. The visa application fee is €75.
Who can apply?
To qualify for a German student visa, applicants must have secured admission to a higher education institution in Germany. They must also demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their stay.
According to the guidelines, students must show proof of at least €11,904 in a blocked account or provide evidence of a scholarship. Applicants may also need to submit proof of language proficiency if it is required for their academic programme.
Who needs a visa?
A student visa is required for citizens of countries whose nationals need a visa to enter Germany. It is also required for students from visa-exempt countries if their course duration exceeds 90 days.
Students attending short-term study programmes lasting less than 90 days, such as some exchange programmes, may instead apply for a Schengen visa, which is issued for the duration of the programme.
Types of study visas
Germany offers different study-related visa categories depending on the purpose of stay. These include visas for full-time academic studies, German language courses linked to studies, preparatory colleges known as Studienkolleg, propaedeutic courses, and mandatory preliminary internships.
Application process
Students can apply for a visa through a German diplomatic mission abroad after receiving admission from a university or educational institution. Depending on the applicant's country of residence, online applications may also be available.
Citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States do not require an entry visa. They can apply for a residence permit after arriving in Germany through the local Foreigners Office (Ausländerbehörde).
Documents required
Applicants must submit a completed visa application form, a valid passport, passport photographs and proof of admission to a German educational institution.
Other required documents include academic certificates, transcripts, proof of language proficiency, travel insurance for the initial stay, a curriculum vitae, and a motivation letter.
Students must also provide proof of financial means. Accepted documents include confirmation of a scholarship, a sponsorship declaration from a resident in Germany, proof of a blocked account containing at least €11,904, or a declaration from a parent.
The German authorities may request additional documents during the application process, according to the guidance.
