How to apply for Germany student visa, step-by-step guide

How to Apply For Germany Student Visa, Step-by-step Guide

Do I need a visa to study in Germany?

In Germany, the need for a visa depends on your nationality and course duration. If your course lasts up to 90 days, a Schengen visa is required—unless you’re from a Schengen country. For programs including degrees that lasts longer than 90 days,a national (D) visa is necessary. Along with this, one should have a residence permit upon arrival. Nationals from countries like the US, UK, Canada, Japan, and Australia also don’t need a visa but must register and apply for a residence permit after reaching Germany.

Types of Visa

Visa requirements for international students fall into two main types (depending on the length of study program). For studies up to 90 days, the student needs a Schengen visa. For studies longer than 90 days, student will need a national visa and potentially a residence permit.

Student Visa Requirement

To apply for a German student visa, one has to meet several key requirements. Their visa application form must be complete, they should have a valid passport, and have recent passport-size photos. One must provide proof of financial resources, that suggests that you can support themselves. Student must have a university admission letter confirming their acceptance into a German study program. One should also submit academic qualifications, school-leaving certificates or previous degrees. One should also have a valid health insurance coverage and proof of language proficiency in either German or English at a minimum B2 level.

Visa application fee

When submitting your German student visa application, you'll need to pay a non-refundable processing fee. The standard fee is €75 for adults and €37.50 for applicants under 18. It’s usually required in cash and in the local currency—for instance, around ₹7,000 if you're applying from India. Be sure to check the exact amount with your local embassy or consulate in advance. If you’ve been awarded a scholarship, you might be exempt from paying this fee, so it’s a good idea to confirm your eligibility for a waiver directly with the embassy before making the payment.

Check Visa Requirements and gaher documents

Students should go to the German Missions Abroad website to check if they need visa. Gather required documents including visa application form, passport, recent passport-size photos and other docs mentioned above.

Get Admission into a German University

The first step is to apply to a recognized university in Germany. Once application is accepted, obtain the Letter of Admission (Zulassungsbescheid).

Open a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)

A blocked account is mandatory to show you can support yourself. Make sure to deposit the required minimum amount (usually €11,904/year).

Book a Visa Appointment and attend interview

Visit the website of the German Embassy and book an apointment. Prepare both original documents and copies before attending visa appointment. Visa processing can take 4–12 weeks depending on the embassy and time of year.

Receive Your Visa and Apply for a Residence Permit

Once approved, you will be allowed to live in germeny for 3–6 months initially. Post relocating, you have to register your address at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) and apply for a residence permit at the local Foreigners’ Office.