How to get a student visa for Germany

Germany is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for international students and for good reason. With world-class universities, low tuition fees and many vibrant cities to choose from, it’s no surprise that hundreds of thousands of foreign students choose to study in Germany each year.

But before you can begin your studies as an international student, you’ll likely need a German student visa to legally enter the country and enroll at your university of choice.

Start your education journey in Germany with confidence with this guide which breaks down:

Who needs a student visa to study in Germany
When to apply and what alternatives exist
What documents you need
How and where to apply for the visa
What happens after your arrival in Germany

Who needs a student visa to study in Germany?

If you're from an EU or EEA country, you're free to study in Germany without a visa. Citizens from countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia and Japan can enter Germany without a visa but must apply for a residence permit within 90 days if they intend to study.

However, if you are from a non-EU/EEA country and your stay will exceed 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a German student visa before entering the country. You should start the process as early as possible, ideally 3–6 months before your planned arrival.

Student Visa vs. Student Applicant vs. Language Course Visas

Germany offers several visa types, depending on your stage in the admission process.

Student visa (Visum zu Studienzwecken)

This is the most common type and is issued to students who already have a letter of admission from a recognised German university. It allows you to enter Germany and apply for a residence permit that covers the duration of your degree.

Student applicant visa (Studienbewerbervisum)

This visa is ideal if you haven’t yet received an acceptance letter but plan to apply in person or attend entrance exams. It’s valid for 3-6 months and gives you time to complete the university application process before converting to Germany’s student visa.

Language course visa

If you’re planning to attend a language course in Germany before starting your degree, this visa lets you stay for up to 12 months. However, you can’t convert this visa directly into a student visa. You’ll have to leave Germany and apply again from your home country if you want to do that.

Key requirements for a German student visa

Getting a student visa requires preparation, especially when it comes to documentation. Be sure to follow German visa requirements closely and also check the specific requirements of the German embassy or consulate in your home country, as they may vary slightly.

1. University admission letter

You must show proof of admission to a recognised German higher education institution: this could be for a bachelor’s, master’s or PhD program. Some consulates also accept conditional admission letters or confirmations of study preparation courses.

2. Proof of financial resources

The German government will want to make sure that you can support yourself during your studies. Most students must show they have at least €11,208 for one year. This is typically done by opening a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with a German bank.

Alternatively, you can provide a Declaration of Commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung) from a sponsor living in Germany.

3. Health insurance

Health insurance is a mandatory requirement. Your visa will not be approved unless you have visa-compliant health coverage that starts from the day you arrive in Germany.

There are two options that you can choose from:

Private expat health insurance (before enrollment): this is ideal for the visa phase and waiting periods
Student public health insurance (after enrollment): you can switch to this once you’ve registered at your university

Feather has you covered with health insurance plans that provide digital sign-up, instant proof for embassies and full support in English, making everything as easy as possible for you.

4. Valid passport and photos

You’ll need a passport that’s valid for your entire planned stay in Germany, plus biometric passport-sized photos that meet German embassy specifications.

5. Visa application forms and fee

Complete the national visa application form and be prepared to pay a fee of around €75 on the day. Some consulates accept only cash or bank transfers, so it’s always best to check in advance.

Where and how to apply for a student visa

You must apply at the German embassy or consulate in your home country. Applications must be submitted in person, and appointments can fill up fast so book early if you can.

Application steps:

Gather your documents: Make sure everything is translated into German or English and notarised if necessary.
Schedule an appointment with the German mission.
Attend the visa interview: You may be asked about your study plans, finances or career goals.
Wait for processing: It usually takes 6–12 weeks to process visas, but delays are common during peak seasons. Try not to leave it until the last minute!

Once approved, your visa will be placed in your passport and you’ll be able to travel to Germany.

After you arrive in Germany

Your visa is just the beginning. Once you arrive in Germany, there are a few legal steps you must complete to finalise your residence:

Register your address (Anmeldung)

Within the first 14 days, go to your local Bürgeramt (registration office) and register your address. You’ll need your rental contract and a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation form).

Apply for a residence permit

You’ll then need to convert your visa into a long-term student residence permit by booking an appointment at your local Ausländerbehörde (immigration office). Bring your health insurance proof, university admission letter, proof of funds and registration certificate.

Open a German bank account

Having a local bank account will make it easier to pay rent, receive transfers and switch to public health insurance once you enroll. You can also explore student discounts, transportation passes and begin integrating into student life more seamlessly.

Switch to permanent health insurance

Once you are settled into life in Germany, be sure to revisit your health insurance cover and check you have the right policy for you. Here’s everything you know to know about health insurance for students in Germany.

Can I extend my student visa?

Yes, your student residence permit can be extended as long as you’re still enrolled and meeting academic progress requirements. Extensions are handled through the local immigration office, and you’ll need to provide updated documents, including proof of continued insurance coverage.

Studying in Germany is an exciting opportunity, but navigating the visa process can feel overwhelming. The key is preparation: gather your documents early, understand your financial and insurance requirements and make sure your paperwork is in order.