Application and documents for a student visa in Germany
Everything about the application and the required documents for a study visa in Germany.
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Here you learn ...
which documents you need for the student visa
where you can get the application form (PDF) for a study visa
what form the documents for a student visa must have
where the study visa is applied for ( jurisdiction )
Table of contents
1. Application procedure for a student visa in Germany
2. Necessary documents for student visa
3. Student visa application form
4. Apply for a residence permit for students
5. What should I do if my application is rejected?
6. FAQ Application procedure for foreign students
7. Conclusion Application procedure for foreign students
1. Application procedure for a student visa in Germany
Foreign students wishing to study in Germany must apply for a national visa before entering the country. The student visa allows them to enter the country for study purposes and is usually issued for three to six months. Within this period, they must apply for a residence permit for study purposes in Germany. The visa is applied for at the responsible German diplomatic mission in their home country, such as the German embassy or consulate general.
When applying for a student visa, students must follow the latest instructions from the embassy of their country of origin. These often provide their own checklists – for example, in India , China , or Turkey – that explain the application process step by step. According to EU directives, visa applications may take a maximum of 90 days to process (Article 34 (1) REST-RL). In practice, however, it is advisable to submit the application as early as possible, as processing times can vary considerably.
2. Necessary documents for student visa
The most important documents for applying for a student visa include a valid passport (see Section 3 of the Residence Act ), a letter of admission from a German university, proof of financial resources , and proof of adequate health insurance . A letter of motivation or a CV may also be required, especially if final admission has not yet been granted.
Proof of financial resources is particularly important: Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves in Germany (see Section 5, Paragraph 1, No. 1 of the Residence Act ). In most cases, a blocked account with the required annual minimum amount is used for this purpose. Alternatively, a declaration of financial commitment from a person residing in Germany can be submitted.
Contact us
Are you looking for a lawyer specializing in German immigration and visa law? We are happy to assist you with residence procedures before embassies, immigration authorities, and administrative courts. Our specialised attorneys are always by your side. Contact us to book an online appointment with a German immigration lawyer!
3. Student visa application form
Students can usually obtain the application form for a student visa from the website of the relevant diplomatic mission abroad. Many embassies use the VIDEX form . Otherwise, the forms are usually available for download as PDF files and must be completed in full and signed by hand. Most embassies also require a digital appointment booking for an in-person interview.
The form of the documents to be submitted must be complete and correct. All documents must be submitted in either German or English . If the original is in another language, a certified translation is required. Incomplete applications are generally not accepted or will significantly delay processing, even though this is illegal (embassies are legally required to accept incomplete applications).
4. Apply for a residence permit for students
After entering Germany with a student visa, you must register your residence and apply for a residence permit for study purposes in a timely manner. The immigration office at your place of residence is responsible for issuing the residence permit. The application should be submitted at least eight weeks before the visa expires, as longer processing times may occur.
Again, some documentation is required for the residence permit, including current proof of enrollment , a rental agreement , and proof of continued financial resources. Again, the following applies: The documents must be submitted complete, up-to-date, and in the required format to avoid delays in the process. The documents required for a residence permit for study purposes vary depending on the immigration authority. The necessary documents can usually be found on the immigration authority's website.
5. What should I do if my application is rejected?
If your application for a student visa is rejected, you should first remain calm and carefully review the rejection notice. The embassy will usually provide the reasons for the rejection in writing – common causes include incomplete documents, inconclusive proof of financial resources, or doubts about your study plans. It is important to respond within the specified deadline to avoid legal repercussions. This deadline is usually one month after receipt of the rejection notice.
Those affected have the opportunityto file a lawsuit against the rejection. In many cases, an appeal could still be filed until July 1, 2025. However, after the abolition of the appeal procedure , a lawsuit must be filed against the rejection of the visa application. One of our lawyers would be happy to advise you on the chances of success of a lawsuit against the rejection notice.
Contact us
Are you looking for a lawyer specializing in German immigration and visa law? We are happy to assist you with residence procedures before embassies, immigration authorities, and administrative courts. Our specialised attorneys are always by your side. Contact us to book an online appointment with a German immigration lawyer!
6. FAQ – Application and documents for a student visa
Where do I apply for a student visa?
The application must be submitted to the German diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate) in your home country before entering the country. If you are already residing in Germany, you must apply for a residence permit at the immigration office.
How long does it take to process a student visa?
According to EU guidelines, processing can take up to 90 days. However, it is recommended to submit the application as early as possible, as processing times vary widely and can sometimes take significantly longer than 90 days.
What documents do I need for the visa application?
Required documents include a valid passport, a letter of acceptance from a university, proof of financial resources, proof of health insurance, and, if applicable, a CV or letter of motivation. The exact documents can be found on the website of the respective embassy or immigration office.
Where can I find the application form for the student visa?
You can usually obtain the form from the website of the relevant foreign mission. The electronic VIDEX form is often used.
Do I have to go to the embassy in person?
Yes, in almost all cases a personal appointment is required.
What happens to the visa after entry?
After entering the country, a residence permit for study purposes must be applied for at the local immigration office within 3-6 months.
What should I do if my visa application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, you should carefully review the reasons given. As of July 2025, appeals are no longer possible; you must file a lawsuit directly with the Administrative Court. Legal advice is recommended.
7. Conclusion Application and documents for a student visa
A student visa is the first step toward a successful study program in Germany. The application requires thorough preparation and complete documentation – especially when it comes to proof of financial resources, problems often arise. Even after entering the country, students must be proactive and apply for a residence permit in a timely manner. If denied, they should consider whether a legal action has a chance of success. VISAGUARD is happy to support you every step of the way to studying in Germany.
List of sources
[1] Hofmann (ed.), Aliens Law, 3rd edition 2023, § 16b
[2] Administrative instructions for residence in Berlin (VAB), as of 18 February 2025, Section 16b
[3] Directive (EU) 2016/801 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 May 2016 on the conditions of entry and residence of third-country nationals For research or study purposes, to complete an internship, to participate in voluntary service, student exchange programs or educational projects and to carry out au pair activities (“REST Directive”)
