Change of purpose of study visa
In these cases, you may apply for a different residence permit as a student in Germany.
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Here you learn ...
what a “ change of purpose ” is
when you as a student are allowed to change the purpose of your stay
when you as a student are allowed to change your course of study
when the ban on change of purpose expires
Table of contents
1. Change of purpose for students
2. Change your course of study with a visa
3. Change of purpose when discontinuing studies
4. Change of purpose after successful studies
5. FAQ Change of purpose student visa
6. Conclusion Change of purpose student visa
1. Change of purpose for students
A "change of purpose" refers to a change in the reason for which you were granted a residence permit in Germany. For international students, this means, for example, someone who originally entered Germany with a visa for the purpose of studying now wants to apply for a residence permit for training, work, or family reunification. In principle, a change of purpose is possible, but is subject to the strict legal requirements of Section 5, Paragraph 2 of the Residence Act (see also the VISAGUARD article "Following up on the visa procedure" ).
Not every purpose of stay can be changed at will. In many cases, there is a ban on changing the purpose of stay , especially immediately after entry. The regulations vary depending on the type of stay, status, and duration of the previous stay. For example, anyone who wants to switch from a student visa to a residence permit for employment purposes must generally have successfully completed their studies. Without a degree, the change is often more difficult (see Section 16b Paragraph 4 of the Residence Act ) or is only possible if there is no temporary employment within the meaning of Part 3 of the Employment Ordinance .
2. Change your course of study with a visa
Changing your degree program within a German university can also be considered a "change of purpose" – especially if it significantly alters your academic focus or degree. Many residence permits for study purposes are tied to specific conditions, such as "studying biology at the Free University of Berlin." A change can lead to the automatic revocation of your original residence permit . However, the additional conditions included in the residence permit are crucial in this case.
To avoid any problems with your residency status, you should apply for and obtain approval for your new degree program in a timely manner. The application for a change or renewal of your residence permit must be submitted before you enroll in the new degree program or discontinue your current one. Failure to do so risks having your residence permit revoked and requiring you to leave the country.
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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. Change of purpose when discontinuing studies
If studies are permanently discontinued, the original purpose of residence no longer applies – the residence permit for study purposes expires (depending on the ancillary conditions). In practice, this often results in students having to leave the country because they no longer have a valid residency status . However, a timely change of purpose of residence can prevent this, for example, by transitioning to an apprenticeship, a voluntary social year, or under certain conditions even directly into employment. If in doubt, you should seek legal advice.
It is important that the application for a new residence permit is submitted in a timely manner—that is , before the studies officially end or the de-registration notice takes effect . The chances of a change of purpose are better if a follow-up option (e.g., a training contract or job offer) already exists. However, without prospects for a new purpose, a change of purpose is generally not permitted.
4. Change of purpose after successful studies
After successfully completing a degree program in Germany, international graduates have an attractive opportunity to change their focus to work as a skilled worker (Sections 18 et seq. of the Residence Act). They can apply for a residence permit to seek employment for up to 18 months (see the VISAGUARD article on the Job Seeker Visa ). During this time, they may pursue any form of employment to support themselves while simultaneously seeking a position that corresponds to their degree.
Once a suitable job is found, a further change of purpose to a residence permit for qualified employment (skilled employment) is possible. Direct entry into self-employment or application for the EU Blue Card is also possible under certain conditions. The crucial point is that the change of purpose is legally stipulated after graduation and, in contrast to other situations, can be applied for relatively easily.
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!
5. FAQ Change of purpose student visa
What is a change of purpose for a student visa?
A change of purpose is a change in the reason for your stay in Germany – for example, from studying to working.
Can I simply change my course of study?
Only with prior approval from the immigration authorities. Otherwise, the residence permit may expire. However, this depends on the additional provisions of the residence permit.
What can I do after successful completion?
You may stay for up to 18 months to look for work (job seeker visa) and then switch to a work visa.
6. Conclusion Change of purpose for foreign students
Change of purpose is a sensitive topic in immigration law and affects many international students in Germany. An ill-advised change of program, a late application, or an interrupted course of study can quickly lead to the loss of a residence permit. At the same time, German residence law offers attractive prospects for a legal change of status into the world of work upon successful completion of your studies. VISAGUARD supports you with all questions related to change of purpose. Our partner lawyers provide you with competent, personalized advice on your residence status and help you take the right steps in a timely manner.
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