Obtaining a German Student Visa – Your Comprehensive Guide

If you’re a foreign national who has secured an acceptance letter to study at a recognized German university, institution, college of arts, or other higher education establishments, you’re eligible to apply for a German student visa. This visa is your gateway to pursuing full-time university studies or preparatory measures like a Foundation course in Germany.

Variety of Study Types Supported by a German Student Visa

A German student visa opens doors to various study types, including:

1. Full-time academic studies: Enroll in full-time university programs.
2. German language courses for studies: Perfect your language skills.
3. State preparatory college (Studienkolleg): Ideal for foreign students whose school-leaving certificates aren’t recognized in Germany.
4. Propaedeutic course: An introduction to your future studies.
5. Mandatory preliminary internship: Prepare for your academic journey.

Requirements for Obtaining a German Student Visa

To apply for a German student visa, visit the German embassy, consulate, or authorized application agencies in your home country. The approval of your application depends on the information and supporting documents you submit. Ensure all documents are sent as originals along with two copies of each. Here’s a checklist of the required documents:

1. Two completed national visa application forms.
2. A valid national passport.
3. Two recent biometric passport photographs (adhering to strict requirements).
4. Proof of admission at a German educational institution, which can be in the form of:

• University admission letter (Zulassungsbescheinigung).
• Admission letter for a foundation course issued by a Studienkolleg.
• Admission letter for a propaedeutic course.
• Admission letter for a preparatory German language course.

1. Proof of German or English language proficiency, depending on your chosen program.
2. Authenticated certificates of previous education.
3. Documentation of your means of subsistence, demonstrating your financial capability.
4. Student health insurance with at least 30,000 EUR coverage.
5. A motivational letter outlining your reasons for choosing the specific university and program.
6. Marriage certificate (if applicable).
7. Proof of payment for the German student visa application fee.

Minimum Bank Balance Required for a German Student Visa

As of October 2022, the German Embassy/Consulate requires a deposit of €11,208 into a blocked bank account when applying for a student visa to Germany.

Getting a German Student Visa Without a Blocked Account

It is possible to apply for a German study visa without a blocked bank account by meeting one of these requirements:

1. Submitting your parent’s financial documents certifying their income and assets.
2. Obtaining a financial guarantee from a friend or relative with permanent residence in Germany.
3. Presenting a scholarship award notification from a recognized institution (e.g., DAAD, Max Planck). If none of these requirements can be fulfilled, a blocked account becomes mandatory for a student visa application.

Germany Study Visa Fees

International students applying for a German student visa are subject to the following fees:

• Applicants under 18 years old: 37.50 Euro
• Applicants over 18 years old: 75 Euro

Privileges and Limitations of a Valid German Student Visa

Holding a German student visa comes with certain privileges:

1. You can apply for a residence permit extension if you haven’t completed your studies within the visa period.
2. You may engage in part-time work for up to 120 working days/year, without interfering with your studies.
3. After graduation, you can apply for a job-seeking residence permit, allowing you to search for employment or become self-employed for up to 6 months.

However, there are limitations:

1. Full-time employment (240 working days/year) is not permitted.
2. Skipping study lessons may result in the cancellation of your eligibility to stay in Germany.

Duration of Stay in Germany with a Student Visa

With a German student visa, you can initially stay in Germany for three months. During this period, you must apply for a residence permit for studying. The maximum duration of this residence permit is two years, and it can be extended depending on the length of your studies.

Steps to Follow After Arriving in Germany with a Student Visa

Before commencing your studies in Germany, follow these steps:

1. Find permanent accommodation in Germany.
2. Obtain German health insurance coverage (Krankenversicherung).
3. Enroll in studies to receive the certificate of enrollment.
4. Open a current bank account with a recognized German bank.
5. Register your living address at the ‘Einwohnermeldeamt’ and obtain confirmation of registration (‘Meldebestätigung’).
6. Apply for a residence permit to study at the ‘Ausländerbehörde’.

These steps are crucial for ensuring a smooth transition into your student life in Germany. It’s important to adhere to these guidelines, as they facilitate your academic journey and enhance your experience as an international student.