How to get a Germany student visa: fees, funds, documents and timeline

National visa for study purposes (type D), converted to a residence permit after arrival at a glance

How to apply, step by step

1. Apply through uni-assist or directly to the university; get the APS certificate first if required
2. Open and fund the blocked account once admitted
3. Book a visa appointment at the German mission; waits can be months, so book early
4. Attend the appointment with originals; processing takes 4 to 12 weeks
5. Register your address and convert to a residence permit within 90 days of arrival

Documents checklist

• Admission letter (Zulassungsbescheid) or conditional admission
• Blocked account confirmation
• Health insurance confirmation
• Proof of language: English (IELTS 6.5 typical) or German (TestDaF, DSH)
• Academic certificates, APS certificate for students from India, China and Vietnam
• Motivation letter and CV

Financial evidence

Blocked account (Sperrkonto) of €11,904 for one year (€992 a month), or a scholarship, or a formal declaration of commitment from a sponsor in Germany. Education loans from recognised lenders are accepted. Money must be in your name or a parent's with a consent letter, and statements must be recent. Our loan partners issue sanction letters that visa offices recognise.

After you graduate

Residence permit for job seeking (Section 20 AufenthG): 18 months. Any job is allowed while searching. Move to an EU Blue Card once you have a qualifying offer.

Working on a student visa

140 full days or 280 half days a year (about 20 hours a week in term). Minimum wages of €12.82 an hour minimum wage (2025).

Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.