Visa Guide for International Students

If you are an international student planning to study in Germany, understanding the visa requirements is crucial.

This guide provides detailed information on whether you need a visa, how to apply for it, and the documents required to ensure a smooth transition to your studies in Germany.

Citizens of the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland

Entry Requirements:

You only need a valid ID card or comparable document to enter Germany.

Post-Arrival:

Once you have found accommodation, register at the Einwohnermeldeamt (residents’ registration office) in your university town. You will receive a document stating your right to remain in the country.

Citizens of Australia, Canada, Great Britain, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and the United States

Entry Requirements:

You can enter Germany without a visa.

Post-Arrival:

If you stay for more than three months, apply for a residence permit at the local foreigners authority (Ausländeramt/Ausländerbehörde).

Find the relevant office

Citizens of Andorra, Brazil, El Salvador, Honduras, Monaco, and San Marino

Entry Requirements:

You may enter without a visa if you do not intend to work in Germany (except for side jobs while studying).

Post-Arrival:

Visit a German diplomatic mission in your country (embassy or consulate general) for further information before traveling.

(Click) Visa Navigator

Citizens of Other Countries Entering Germany with a Visa - General Visa Requirements

Applicants from most countries will require a visa. Detailed visa requirements and information can be found

here

Types of Visas

Schengen Visa:

Suitable for short visits (up to three months) for holidays, language courses, and business trips. This visa cannot be extended.

National Visa:

Intended for longer stays such as study visits. This visa is necessary if you plan to study at MUDT for more than three months.

Applying for a Visa
Step-by-Step Process

1

Determine the Type of Visa You Need:

Based on your nationality and the length of your stay, identify whether you need a Schengen visa or a national visa.

2

Contact the German Embassy or Consulate:

Locate the German diplomatic mission in your home country. Addresses and contact information can be found on the Federal Foreign Office’s website.

3

Prepare Your Application:

Gather the necessary documents (listed below) and fill out the application forms. These can usually be downloaded from the embassy or consulate’s website.

4

Schedule an Appointment:

Book an appointment with the embassy or consulate to submit your application. Do this well in advance, as processing times can be lengthy.

5

Attend the Appointment:

Submit your application and provide biometric data (photographs and fingerprints) if required.

Wait for Processing:
Processing times can vary,
so apply as early as possible.

Documents Required for
Visa Application

Valid Passport

Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Germany.

Proof of Health Insurance

Health insurance coverage is mandatory. Provide proof of insurance valid in Germany.
For more info

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Demonstrate you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay. This can be a bank statement or financial guarantee. For more info

Academic Records

Provide records of previous studies and language proficiency certificates.

Letter of Acceptance from MUDT

If you have been accepted to MUDT, include your acceptance letter.

Higher Education Qualification

If applying for a prospective student visa, include proof of your eligibility for higher education. Check your eligibility

Health Certificate

Some applicants may need to provide a health certificate.

Important Tips

  • Early Application: Start your visa application process early, as it can take months to complete.
  • Prospective Student Visa to Residence Permit: If you enter Germany with a prospective student visa, you can convert it to a residence permit for studying once accepted into MUDT.
  • Tourist Visas: Note that a tourist visa cannot be converted into a student visa later.

After Arrival in Germany
Registering with Local Authorities

Einwohnermeldeamt: Register at the residents’ registration office in your university town as soon as you have accommodation.
Ausländerbehörde: Apply for a residence permit at the local foreigner’s authority if staying longer than three months.
For more info here
For further assistance, contact the International Office at MUDT. We are here to help you navigate the visa application process and ensure your transition to studying in Germany is as smooth as possible.

Useful websites for international candidates:

Visa application process
https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/living-in-germany/visa/

Information about a blocked account (private)
https://fintiba.com/solutions/german-blocked-account/

Visaguide.world (process for study residence permit)
https://visaguide.world/europe/germany-visa/residence-permit/student/

Health Insurance in Germany
https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/living-in-germany/health-insurance/

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