To study in Germany, international students must obtain a German Student Visa (Type D). The visa allows you to stay in Germany for long-term studies. You must first secure an admission letter from a recognized German university and provide a valid passport and completed visa application form. Applicants must show proof of financial means—usually around €11,904 per year in a blocked account—to cover living expenses.
You also need health insurance, academic documents, a curriculum vitae (CV), and a motivation letter explaining your study goals. Proof of language proficiency in German or English (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF) is required, depending on your program. Pakistani students must additionally submit an APS Certificate to verify their educational credentials. Lastly, provide proof of accommodation in Germany and pay the €75 visa fee.
- Get university admission letter.
- Prepare documents (passport, blocked account, insurance, APS, IELTS/TestDaF, CV, etc.).
- Book an appointment at the German Embassy or Gerry’s Visa Center.
- Attend interview and submit application with €75 fee.
- Wait for processing (6–12 weeks).
- Receive visa, travel to Germany, and apply for residence permit after arrival.
- Valid passport
- Visa application form (filled and signed)
- University admission letter
- APS Certificate (for Pakistani students)
- Proof of financial means (€11,904 in blocked account or sponsor letter)
- Health insurance proof
- Academic certificates & transcripts
- Language proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL or TestDaF/DSH)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter / Statement of Purpose
- Proof of accommodation in Germany
- Visa fee payment receipt (€75)
- Passport-sized photos (biometric format)
After receiving your German student visa, you can prepare to travel and begin your studies. First, book your flight and keep all important documents ready, such as your passport, visa, admission letter, and proof of financial means. Once you arrive in Germany, you must register your local address at the Bürgeramt (registration office) within 14 days. Then, open or activate your bank account and confirm your health insurance coverage.
Next, visit the Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office) to apply for a residence permit before your visa expires. You must also enroll at your university by submitting your academic documents, visa, and proof of fee payment. After enrollment, you’ll receive your student ID card, which often includes public transport benefits. Finally, attend orientation sessions organized by your university to learn about campus life, academics, and student support before starting your classes.
UniWays Global offers an array of services designed to take the stress and confusion out of the process of applying for a student visa. Speak to an UniWays Global counsellor today.
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