Visa in Germany
200+ Institutions·1,400+ Programs📌 Key takeaways
- Proof of funds required: €11,904 per year
- Visa application fee: Approximately €75 payable at the consulate
- Typical visa processing time: Usually 6 to 8 weeks; apply 3 to 6 months before the semester starts
- Health insurance cost: €120 to €140 per month for student health insurance
Who needs a student visa?
- EU/EEA/Swiss citizens generally do not need a visa.
- Students from many other countries will need a national student visa before arriving.
- You must apply for a long-stay (national) visa if you plan to study in Germany for more than 90 days.
- Short stays under 90 days use a Schengen C visa; these do not cover degree-level study.
- Specific national visas include: German Student Visa, Student Applicant Visa, and Language Course Visa.
Key documents to prepare
- Valid passport.
- Formal acceptance letter or admission offer from a German university.
- Proof of funds: €11,904 per year.
- Travel and valid student health insurance for initial entry.
- Completed visa application form.
- Two biometric passport photos that meet German specifications.
- Any academic certificates or recognized qualifications required for enrollment.
- Evidence of accommodation (rental contract or confirmation of address) if available.
Some embassies may ask for additional documents depending on your circumstances.
Step-by-step application process
- Prepare documents
- Gather passport, acceptance letter, blocked account confirmation, health insurance proof, photos, and academic records.
- Create CSP profile and complete VIDEX
- Create a profile on the Consular Services Portal (CSP).
- Complete and submit the VIDEX form as required by the consulate.
- Book a consulate appointment
- Schedule an appointment at the nearest German consulate or embassy.
- Attend the consulate interview
- Provide biometric data, submit originals and copies, and pay the visa fee (about €75).
- Expect questions about your study plans and funding.
- Wait for visa decision
- Processing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks, but can vary by location and season.
- Travel to Germany and complete local steps
- Register your address (Anmeldung) at the local registration office shortly after arrival.
- Apply for a residence permit at the local Ausländerbehörde using your visa and certificate of enrollment.
Financial requirements and costs
- Proof of funds: €11,904 per year.
- Blocked account: confirmation is required to show access to funds.
- Health insurance premiums: expect €120 to €140 per month for student coverage.
- Estimated living expenses: around €1,000 per month as a general estimate of actual costs.
- Visa application fee: approximately €75 paid at the consulate during the interview.
After you arrive
Once you arrive in Germany, you'll usually need to:
- Register your address with the local registration office.
- Apply for a residence permit if required.
- Complete your university enrollment.
Your university's international office can usually help you complete these steps.
Working while studying
International students are generally allowed to work while studying (up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per calendar year; 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time on holidays), although the rules depend on their residence status.
Before accepting employment, make sure you understand the conditions attached to your student visa or residence permit.
For the latest information, check with your university or the relevant German authorities.
FAQs
You must show €11,904 per year as the legal maintenance requirement.
Processing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks. You should apply 3 to 6 months before your semester start to allow extra time.
The consular visa fee is approximately €75, payable at the interview. Additional costs include blocked account setup and health insurance premiums.
Usually yes. A blocked account confirmation is required to show access to the required funds.
Register your address (Anmeldung) soon after arrival. Then apply for a residence permit at the Ausländerbehörde using your visa and certificate of enrollment.
Trending institutions in Germany
View all institutions in Germany
