Germany is a popular study destination for students from all over the world. Depending on where they are from, they may need a student visa. Based on the circumstances of the study program, there are three types of German student visas:

Language Course Visa
Applies to German language courses from 3 months to 1 year.

Student Applicant Visa
If you still haven't received a formal admission letter from your university, you can apply for one or you can do an entrance examination offered by the university. It is valid for 3 months with the possibility of extending to 6 months.

Student Visa
This is a long-term visa if you have been accepted to a German university. Remember to register with the Foreign Registration Office in the city you’re residing in within two weeks of your arrival so you can register your German address.

There are some requirements to obtain a German student visa:

• Two filled-out and signed national visa forms

• Your valid national passport

• Two photocopies of your passport

• Birth Certificate

• Marriage certificate (if married)

• Child’s certificate (if you have children)

• Two recently-taken biometric portrait photographs

• Photocopies of previous German residence titles. (If you have lived in Germany before)

• Previous Schengen Visa

• Previous Resident Permit

• Proof of Financial Resources (such as a Blocked Bank Account, letter of commitment from a person living in Germany who shows they will be covering your accommodation or other living costs, or letter of declaration in which your parents show they will be providing you with financial support during your stay)

• Proof of Admission (University admission letter or letter of admission in foundation/propaedeutic/German language course)

• Original certificates of previous education

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Motivational Letter, in which you explain why you have chosen this degree program as well as your future plans

• Travel Health Insurance. (covering the period from your departure to the date of enrollment at the German university – approx. 3 months)

• Proof you have paid the visa application fee

• Proof of German and English language proficiency (for German or mixed-language programs)

Do note that requirements might differ depending on your nationality and destination region in Germany. Information is always available on embassy websites.