With over 380 officially recognised universities, some of which are ranked the best in the world, Germany attracts international students looking to pursue a higher education. By choosing to study in Germany, you are choosing a successful future in one of 17000 programmes German universities offer.
The visa application process is fairly straightforward once you have your German student visa requirements in order. After receiving a German visa, Schengen travel (travel across Europe) is visa-free. You can also apply for an 18-month German residency permit after graduation to secure employment. International students can work part-time for 20 hours a week or 120 days in a year. This blog covers everything you need to know about German study visa requirements.
Navigating the process of finding the right German universities and sorting through the steps for your student visa application might feel overwhelming, but Yocket counsellors here to simplify it all for you. With our expert guidance and support, you can confidently tackle each step of the journey. Reach out to Yocket Counsellors now and let us help you make your dreams of studying in Germany a reality.
What are the Different Types of Visas in Germany?
Here are some of the various types of visas that may interest the Indian students wanting to study in Germany:
- German Student Visa: If you want to pursue a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Germany, you must obtain a German Student Visa. A key requirement for obtaining this visa is having a letter of admission from a German study program.
- German Student Applicant Visa: If an Indian student has applied for a German study program but hasn't received an official letter of admission yet, they can apply for a German Student Applicant Visa. Applying for this visa significantly increases the chances of entering Germany on time. Remember to contact the relevant German Embassy/Consulate in India about applying for the student applicant visa.
- German Language Course Visa: Indians who wish to attend an intensive German language course in Germany can apply for a German Language Visa. We recommend consulting the local German Embassy/Consulate in India to ensure eligibility for this visa type.
- German Job Seeker Visa: Indian students who have completed a degree at a German university can apply for a job-seeker visa right after graduation. This visa allows them 18 months to find a suitable job in Germany and stay there.
- German Family Reunion Visa: The German student visa allows Indian students studying in Germany to bring their family members with them to Germany through the German Family Visa. Depending on individual cases, eligible family members who can accompany Indian students during their studies in Germany include their spouses, children, and parents.
In essence, an Indian student who wishes to study in Germany, meaning to pursue a degree at a German university, requires a German student visa.
What is a German Student Visa?
If you have applied to a study program at a German university and received a letter of admission, you can qualify for a student visa for Germany. This visa is applicable to various types of higher education institutions in Germany, such as Universities, Universities of Applied Sciences, and Academies of Arts, Music, and Film.
For Indian students, the German study visa typically lasts for 3 months. During this period, you need to arrive in Germany and complete the necessary bureaucratic procedures, including applying for a residence permit. Indian students can convert their 3-month visa into a residence permit, which can be valid for one to three years, depending on the duration of their study program. If Indian students are unable to finish their studies within the standard timeframe, they can also extend their residence permit.
German Student Visa for Indians: Costs
The German student visa costs €75 or INR 6,694 for Indians (€37.5 for minors), just like for everyone else. Indian students must pay the fee in Indian Rupees (INR), so it's important to check the current exchange rate before visiting the German Embassy/Consulate in India. All German missions in India accept Demand Drafts from national banks, provided they are not older than 2 months. The German Embassy in New Delhi also accepts cash.
Even if your application is rejected, you cannot get a refund. In other words, the visa fee is non-refundable. Interestingly, Indian students with a scholarship from a German public institution (e.g., DAAD) do not need to pay any visa processing fees.
German Student Visa for Indians: Processing Time
The processing time for a German student visa for India is approximately 12 weeks. In simpler terms, Indian students might have to wait around 3 months to obtain a visa to study in Germany. The countdown begins as soon as you submit your complete application and pay the visa fees. Therefore, it's crucial for Indians to apply for a German student visa as soon as possible, ideally upon receiving the letter of acceptance from a German university, to ensure timely arrival in Germany.
According to the website of the German Missions in India, there is no distinction in the student visa processing time between the German Embassy in New Delhi and the German Consulates in Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, and Mumbai. The website only provides a general guideline of approximately 12 weeks for processing. Following this logic, whether it's Bangalore or Kolkata, you should anticipate around 12 weeks of processing time for your German student visa application. However, it's reasonable to expect a longer processing time for Indian students applying to the German Embassy in New Delhi rather than the German Consulate in Bangalore because the former handles the largest volume of German student visa applications among the German missions in India. For example, it even processes applications from Bhutanese students.
German Student Visa Success Rate for India
Based on our research conducted in 2022 and 2023, the success rate for German student visas for India is approximately 90%. In simpler terms, around 90 out of 100 Indian students are successful in their German student visa applications. Consequently, the rejection rate for German student visas for Indians is approximately 10%. The main reasons for rejection are incomplete applications and insufficient financial resources.
However, based on these statistics, it's highly unlikely that your application for a German study visa will be rejected as long as your application is complete, your documents are in order, and you can provide solid proof of sufficient financial resources. In short, obtaining a German student visa is quite straightforward for Indians.
German Student Visa Requirements for Indian Students
To get started with the application process for a student visa to Germany, you will need the following key pieces of Germany student visa requirements for indian. Germany student visa rules are to apply for a German student visa at the embassy or consulate in your country. Originals must be delivered with two photocopies.
Here’s a detailed checklist of documents required for a german student visa:
- Valid passport
- At least €30,000 in health insurance coverage, with a validity period of at least 3 months.
- Verification of the existence of sufficient resources
- High school academic transcripts
- Resume
- Minimum IELTS score of 6.0 overall or 550 on the TOEFL)
- German language proficiency certificate: Levels II-III of the DSH Certificate
- Health record
- Two recent biometric portraits photographs
- Student visa application fee payment receipt
- Letter of acceptance from German university
- A letter of motivation
- Means of subsistence- Proof of Financial Resources (€10,332 deposit confirmation at a German blocked bank account.)
Check out how to get admission in the best universities in Germany
What is the Germany Student Visa Age Limit?
There is no age limit for German student, Anyone of any age can submit an application to enrol in an academic programme in Germany. The average age of a graduate in Germany is 28 years old, giving the nation the reputation of having the continent's oldest graduates.
Germany Student Visa Rejection Reasons
Documents Required for German Student Visa?
Requirement 1: Visa Application Documents
- Completed and signed application for a student visa.
- Valid national passport
- Two copies of your passport
- Birth certificate.
- A copy of your marriage licence. (Applicable if any)
- The birth certificate of your child. (If any)
- Submit three recent passport style images
Requirement 2: Additional contact and legal counsel information is requested on this declaration form.
- Completed and signed copies in two separate sets.
Requirement 3: Demand Draft for the student visa fee
- Demand Drafts in Indian rupees must be used to pay the fee at the Embassy/Consulate as part of the germany study visa requirements for Indian students.
Requirement 4: Proof of University Admission
- Confirmation of enrollment in academic programmes:
- A document from a German university or college confirming the date on which you will begin your studies and the language in which you will be taught.
- Admission to a conditional programme and a certified intense course of study.
- Prior to being accepted to a university, you must have a letter stating that you have completed an intense language programme as part of the germany language visa requirements. The course must span at least six months and include at least 18 hours of weekly instruction.
- Documentation of conditional acceptance to a university:
- An "uni-assist" sent this letter.
- Acceptance as an applicant has been confirmed.
- With the university regarding final admissions requirements.
- There must be proof of payment for the language programme as part of the germany language visa requirements.
- A confirmed spot in the course is required. Payment must cover the first three months of living expenses.
- Proof of conditional university acceptance.
- Letter from uni assist
- Verification of your status as a prospective student.
- Communication with the university regarding final admissions requirements.
- Proof that you've been accepted into the course.
Requirement 5: Evidence of your earlier education.
- Original high school diploma.
- Certificate of completion of the degree programme (if applying for masters or phd programmes)
Requirement 6: Medical Insurance
- Students who are enrolled in an accredited German degree programme are often eligible for low-cost public health insurance.
- German health insurance can be divided into two categories:
- Insurance for international students is provided by a public health insurance provider, and it ranges in price from EUR 103,94 to EUR 111,75 per month for basic healthcare and long-term care.
- It costs roughly EUR 33 per month for private health insurance in Germany, which can rise depending on what additional services you choose and how long you intend to stay in Germany.
Requirement 7: Motivational letter
- You'll have to explain why you've chosen a certain college or programme of study. Also mention your studies and plans, and how they will benefit your career and life.
: Quick guide on how to calculate cost of living in Germany
Financial Requirements For The German Student Visa
This is merely proof that you've provided demonstrating that you have the germany student visa financial requirements necessary to cover your living, lodging, and educational expenses. Any one of the following can be submitted to complete your germany student visa financial requirements:
- Confirmation of a EUR 10,332 deposit in a German-blocked bank account (this is how much bank balance is required for germany student visa)
- Letter of commitment and proof of your parent's income records and financial assets.
- A German resident's letter of commitment. The German resident who will be covering your expenses during your studies takes this letter to the Alien's Registration Office.
- Acknowledgement of receiving a scholarship. It has to show how much of the expenses are covered.
- A bank guarantee from a reputable German bank, issued to you.
How to Apply for a German Student Visa from India?
The procedure for applying for a study visa for Germany may vary slightly for different Indian students, depending on their location within India and their academic objectives. For example, some Indian students may need to apply directly through the German Embassy/Consulates in India, while others may apply via VFS Visa Application Centre in India. With this context in mind, let's outline the TEN steps that Indian students must follow to obtain a German student visa.
1. Determine whether you need to apply directly through the German Embassy/Consulate in India or via the VFS.
For instance, if you fall under the jurisdiction of the German Embassy in New Delhi or the German Consulates in Mumbai, Chennai, or Bangalore, and you possess an unconditional letter of admission from a German Master's (Doctoral, Post-Doc) program or have a scholarship from a German institution, then you should apply via the VFS.
2. Identify the German Embassy/Consulate or the VFS Visa Application Centre in India responsible for processing your German student visa application.
The residence of prospective Indian students plays a crucial role in determining where they should apply for a German student visa. Below, you can find which German Embassy/Consulate in India is responsible for processing your student visa application based on your location.
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Your Location in India |
German Mission in India responsible for your application |
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Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and the Union Territories of Chandigarh, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Minicoy and Amindive |
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Maharashta, the Union States of Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Union Territories of Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli |
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West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura |
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Karnatak and Kerala |
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Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Union Territory of Puducherry |
3. Gather the necessary documents
Aside from the details provided here, acquaint yourself with all requirements by following these steps: visit the website of the German Missions in India, navigate to "Services," then "Visa Information," proceed to the "German National Visa" section, and select the "Checklist for Student Visa" category.
4. Schedule the appointment
Depending on individual circumstances (primarily residence and academic background), Indian students must schedule an appointment for their German student visa application at one of the following locations: German Embassy in New Delhi, German Consulate in Mumbai, German Consulate in Kolkata, German Consulate in Bangalore, German Consulate in Chennai, or one of the Visa Application Centres in India.
Typically, Indian students can book appointments either online or by phone. Interestingly, whether documents need to be submitted at the New Delhi Embassy, one of the German consulates, or Visa Application Centres in India, appointments must be booked through the VFS in any case.
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Location in India |
How to Book? |
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|---|---|---|
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German Embassy in India |
Via phone (022-67866013) |
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German Consulate in Mumbai |
Via phone (022-67866013) |
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German Consulate in Kolkata |
N/A |
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German Consulate in Bangalore |
Via phone (022-67866013) |
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German Consulate in Chennai |
Via phone (022-67866013) |
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Visa Application Centres in India |
N/A |
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5. Attend the appointment at the Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Centre
Ensure you arrive at least 15 minutes early for your appointment. Missing the appointment could delay your application process, jeopardising your chances of timely arrival in Germany.
Remember, if you fail to attend your scheduled appointment, you'll need to wait at least 24 hours from the original date to reschedule.
6. Submit all required documents
Ensure none are overlooked, as missing documents could lead to application rejection. Arrange them according to the checklist provided by the relevant German Embassy/Consulate in India, and refrain from stapling them together.
7. Participate in the interview (if visiting the Embassy/Consulate)
Expect the interview to last 10-15 minutes. During the German student visa interview, Indian students should articulate why they chose the specific study program and how it aligns with their future goals. Drawing upon information from the CV and SOP/LOM during the interview can strengthen your arguments.
8. Pay the German student visa processing fee for Indians
9. Await the outcome (approval or rejection) & Collect your passport and visa.
Suggested: Brief Breakdown of the Higher Education System in Germany
German Student Residence Permit for India
The German student visa for Indian students typically remains valid for 3 months. Upon arrival in Germany, Indian students must complete necessary bureaucratic procedures, including applying for a German student residence permit. In other words, they must convert their German student visa to a German student residence permit before the 3-month visa expires. We recommend that prospective Indian students apply for a student residence permit at least 6 weeks before their student visa expires.
The German student residence permit can be valid for the duration of your studies. Even if Indian students are unable to complete their studies within the standard timeframe, they can still extend the student residence permit.
The documents required for Indian students to apply for a German student residence permit are typically listed on the website of the relevant Foreigners' Authority office. Depending on the city or town of residence, requirements may vary slightly. After reviewing various requirements across locations in Germany, our team has compiled the following general checklist of documents typically needed for a student residence permit application:
Here's a checklist of documents needed for Indian students applying for a German student residence permit:
- Fill out the application form.
- Ensure you have a valid passport with an entry visa.
- Provide a current biometric passport photo.
- Obtain a registration of address (Meldebescheinigung).
- Show proof of valid health insurance.
- Demonstrate sufficient funds.
- Present a certificate of enrollment.
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Location |
Source |
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Berlin |
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Bremen |
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Cologne |
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Düsseldorf |
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Frankfurt |
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Hamburg |
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Munich |
Currently, in most instances, Indians typically follow a three-step process to obtain a German student residence permit:
1. Submitting the application package to the authorities, either via email or post.
2. Providing biometric data and payment. After submitting the application, the authorities will contact you (usually via email) to confirm receipt and inform you of the appointment to collect biometric data. During this appointment, you must:
- Sign necessary documents.
- Provide fingerprints.
- Present your passport.
- Submit a biometric photo.
- Pay the residence permit fee, typically around EUR 100 for Indians. Payment is usually accepted in cash or by EC card.
3. Receiving the residence permit card. Once biometric data is collected and payment is made, you'll immediately receive a paper serving as a temporary substitute for the residence permit card. This paper is valid for 3 months and indicates when the card will be ready. You'll be notified whether the card will be sent by post or if you need to collect it in person. The final step is receiving the card either via email or in person.
The processing time for the German student residence permit for Indian students is approximately 4-6 weeks, starting from the submission of biometric data and payment.
Just as with the requirements, the procedure to apply for a German student residence permit may vary depending on your location in Germany. Therefore, it's essential to consult the websites of the relevant Foreigners' Authority offices for accurate information.
Can Indian Students work in Germany with a Student Visa?
Yes, Indian students can work in Germany with a student visa. When you convert your student visa to a residence permit, you'll also receive an additional green paper, called Zusatzblatt in German. This paper contains information about your right to work in Germany. Specifically, it states that as an Indian student, you're permitted to work part-time for up to 280 days per year (e.g., up to 20 hours per week) or full-time for up to 140 days per year (e.g., more than 20 hours per week).
Additionally, Indian students are not allowed to work in a self-employed or freelance capacity in Germany. However, if you work as a student assistant at the university, there are no limits on the number of working days. Nonetheless, you still need to inform the foreigners' office about this occupation.
From the Desk of Yocket
For Indian students seeking education in Germany, a variety of visa options cater to their needs. From student visas for degree programs to language course visas and job seeker visas post-graduation, Germany offers accessible pathways for academic and career pursuits. With straightforward processes and a high success rate, obtaining a German student visa is a viable choice for Indian students aiming for academic excellence and lucrative job opportunities abroad.
A degree from a German university is respected around the world and is a great asset to have on hand when looking for work. Ensure your documents are in order for a bright and prosperous future by following this guide through germany student visa requirements, To clarify any doubts on Germany or about studying abroad, reach out to our Yocket counsellors today!