VISA
Do you need to apply for a visa to live, study or do an internship in Germany? We give you an overview of who needs a visa and what exceptions exist.
Foreign students from the states of the european union, the european economic area or switzerland
In general, you do not need a visa or other documents to enter Germany and study if you come from the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland.
There are also exceptions:
Under certain conditions, this also applies to students from other countries who already have a residence permit to study in another EU country (keyword: REST Directive). However, it is important that you find out about this individually.
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There are certain countries outside the European Union for which there is also a special regulation and you do not need a visa to enter Germany. Find out on the website of the Federal Foreign Office whether your home country is one of them.
If you need a visa because you come from a country that requires a visa, please note the following:
You must apply for a visa in your home country.
Apply for your visa in good time, as approval can take several months.
If you have any questions about visas, it is best to contact the German consulate in your home country or the German embassy. They can give you the most important information. We advise against just looking for general information on the Internet. Especially with such important documents and long waiting times, the information must be up-to-date and clear.
You usually need the following documents for a visa application
Certificate of German language skills or proof of participation in a language course in Germany
Knowledge of English for an English-language degree program
University entrance qualification recognized in Germany
Certificates of previous academic achievements
Valid passport
Health insurance cover and, if applicable, a health certificate
Proof of financing
Declaration of consent from your German university (or confirmation from the university that you have a good chance of being admitted).
What types of visas are there
Visa for applying to study
If you have not yet received admission to a course of study or a preparatory college, it is advisable to apply for a visa for prospective students. This visa is usually valid for three months and gives you the opportunity to meet the necessary requirements for admission to a German university. If you need more time, this visa can be extended for up to six months. After receiving admission, you can then apply for a student residence permit.
Study visa
If you have not yet received admission to a course of study or a preparatory college, it is advisable to apply for a visa for prospective students.
This visa is usually valid for three months and gives you the opportunity to meet the necessary requirements for admission to a German university. If you need more time, this visa can be extended for up to six months. After receiving admission, you can then apply for a student residence permit.
IMPORTANT FURTHER INFORMATION
How much does the test cost and where can I take it, even if I'm not yet in Germany?
You can take the test online at the TestDaF center. It is only in German and costs around €215
What exactly does such a test look like? And how can I prepare for it?
The test consists of four parts: reading, speaking, writing and listening. All tasks, topics, texts and situations relate to everyday academic life and test the language skills you need for studying or working in an academic setting in Germany.
How is the test graded?
The TestDaF assesses your language skills at three levels: TDN 3, 4 and 5. These levels correspond to levels B2 and C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​and thus make your language skills internationally comparable.
If I fail, how many times can I retake the test
You have the option of retaking the TestDaF as many times as you like. If you are not successful on the first attempt, we recommend that you wait a little while before the next test. Use this time to work specifically on the areas where you had weaknesses.
How long does it take until I get the test result?
The results of the digital TestDaF are available within about 4-6 weeks.
The German language is very important. Not only for studying or getting your dream job, but also for finding new friends.
If you would like to check your German language skills yourself, you can take a free placement test on the Goethe Institute website. After the test, you will receive a recommendation for the appropriate course level.
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If your German language skills are not yet sufficient, there is the option of taking a language course in Germany. Many universities offer such courses during the semester break. These summer courses usually take place between June and September. Some universities also offer language courses in the winter months.How long does it take until I get the test result?