German student visa: What do I need to know?

To study in Germany as a non-EU citizen, you need a German student visa. Read on to learn about applications, costs, and how to get a student visa for Germany.

Marle

4 minute read

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Updated on 30 Aug 2024

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Moving

Are you a non-EU student eager to study in Germany? You're in for an exciting journey! However, you might wonder about the essential steps to get your German student visa. No need to fret – we're here to provide all the necessary guidance.

In this article, we'll guide you through applying for a German student visa addressing the requirements, application procedures, associated fees, and even sharing some helpful tips to ensure your preparation for your educational experience in Germany is smooth and worry-free.

Most non-EU students coming from countries such as China, India, Cameroon or Syria will need a German student visa and a residence permit to study at a university in Germany.

Students who don’t need a German student visa include:

• Students coming from the EU/EEA or Switzerland.
• Students doing a course shorter than 3 months will need a Schengen visa.
• Students from Australia, Canada, the UK, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea or the USA. But if your studies last longer than 3 months, you've to apply for a residence permit.
• Students from Andorra, Brazil, El Salvador, Honduras, Monaco and San Marino only need a visa or residence permit if they plan on working in Germany after their studies (this doesn't apply to student jobs).

There are 3 types of study visas in Germany, each catering to a specific purpose of stay:

1. Standard German student visa: Designed for international students admitted to a German university. This visa is valid for first year of your studies. After your first year, you'll receive a German student residence permit.

2. German student applicant visa: Intended for students who must do entrance exams or interviews as part of the admission process. This visa has a 3-month validity. Once you receive proof of acceptance, you must apply for a standard student visa.

3. German language course visa: Tailored for students who intend to enrol in intensive German language courses, with a minimum of 18 hours per week. This visa offers flexibility in its validity, ranging from 3 to 12 months.

If your studies in Germany are shorter than 90 days, e.g., an exchange program, you can apply for a Schengen visa.

To apply for the German student visa, you'll need the following documents:

• Valid passport
• Birth certificate
• Completed visa application form
• 2–3 passport photos
• CV and motivation letter
• Admission letter (Zulassungsbescheid) from a German university or university preparatory course or proof of conditional admission
• Proof of high school diploma and transcripts or bachelor's degree
• Certificate of German / English language proficiency of at least B2 level for university programs
• Health insurance that’s valid in Germany
• Proof of funds such as:
  • A blocked German bank account with a minimum of €11,904
  • Scholarship letter showing the costs it'll cover
  • Proof of your parent's income records and financial assets
  • Declaration of commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung) signed by a German resident that will financially support you during your studies

If applicable, submit the marriage or your children's birth certificate and copies of any previous German residence permits.

1. Gather required visa documents.

2. Translate and legalize non-German/English documents.

3. Complete the online application, pay fees, and book a visa appointment (it's best done 3 months before moving).

4. Attend the interview and answer basic questions about your study plans. Bring all docs.

Once approved, you'll be notified to collect your passport. If rejected, you can appeal or reapply.

How much does a German study visa cost?

The application fee for a German student visa is €75. This is not refundable if your application is rejected.

How long is the German student visa processing time?

The processing time for a German student visa is 25 days on average. Unless they ask you for additional documents, the maximum processing time is 3 months.

How to apply for the German student residence permit?

You need to apply for a German student residence permit before your student visa expires. Make your way to the resident's registration and immigration office (Ausländerbehörde). Ensure you have the following documents with you:

• Your passport containing the German student visa
• Evidence of your university enrollment
• A rental agreement
• An address registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)
• Proof of sufficient funds (€11,904 as of 2024/2025 academic year)
• German health insurance
• Proof of paid application fee (around €110)

It takes between 4 to 6 weeks to process your information. Afterwards, you'll receive your residence card. German student residence permits are valid for up to 2 years.

How much IELTS score required for the German student visa?

If you're applying for a standard German student visa and not enrolled in a preparatory course, you must have an IELTS band score ranging from 5.5 to 6, with at least 5.5 in each module.

Alternatively, you can demonstrate your English proficiency through tests such as Goethe Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan, ÖSD, or TOEFL. Your choice!

Can I work in Germany on a student visa?

If you're a student in Germany, you can work up to 20 hours a week during the semester. During school breaks, you can work as a full-time employee. However, if you're from a non-EU country, your visa also restricts your working hours to 140 full days or 280 half days in a year. Don't worry though, mandatory internships for your studies or academic work don't count towards that limit. All other types of work do.

Here's another helpful tip: You can earn up to €538 completely tax-free. If your earnings exceed this amount, you will be issued an income tax number, and your employer will deduct the appropriate income tax from your salary. To get some of the money back, you should file taxes in Germany.

By following this checklist, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the German student visa application process and embark on your exciting academic journey in Germany! Good luck!

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