Germany Student Visa

Learn How to Get Your Long-Stay Visa for Germany

Last updated: January 2026

Heidelberg is an historic academic hub and a top destination for international students in Germany. If you're planning to study at Schiller International University Heidelberg, it's crucial to understand the Germany student visa requirements, especially if you're coming from outside the EU. Most international students will need to apply for a Long-Stay Visa before entering the country.

Get clarity on Germany study visa requirements for international students, such as health insurance and university admission.
Learn the full long-stay visa process for Germany.
Step-by-step on how to apply for a German Student Visa.
Overview of German student visa fees and processing time.
Understand why you need a blocked bank account before obtaining your student visa.
Discover the rules around working while studying in Germany.
Explore your career path options to work after studying in Germany.

Visa-Free Student Residence Permit.

If you are a citizen of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland, you can live, study and work in Germany visa-free indefinitely.

If you are a citizen of one of the following non-EU/EEA countries, you can also enter Germany visa-free and apply for student residence permit directly at the immigration office under §41 AufenthV

Eligible Countries: Andorra, Canada, Israel, New Zeland, United Kingdom, Australia, El Salvador, Japan, San Marino, United States of America, Brazil, Honduras, Monaco and South Korea.

Applicants from all other countries must apply through a German Consulate abroad.

Visa Requirements for Non-European Students

If you’re a non-European student planning to study at Schiller International University’s heidelberg campus, obtaining the right visa is an essential step in your journey. Germany welcomes international students, but it is crucial to ensure all visa requirements are met before your arrival.

*The process is not the same for every country, we ask you to look at this list of countries and go directly to your embassy page to get to know the steps you need to follow for applying a visa. If you don´t see your country, talk to your recruitment advisor and request for help.

How to Apply for a German Student Visa

The application process for a German student visa is systematic and efficient, but preparation is key.

Gather Supporting Documents

Documents include a valid passport, an acceptance letter from Schiller International University, a block account confirmation, and travel and health insurance.

Create a Profile on CSP

Create a profile on the CSP portal, fill out the VIDEX form, and upload all the supporting documents.

Schedule an Appointment

Once the documents are approved on the CSP, book an appointment at the nearest German Consulate.

Attend the Visa Interview

Provide biometric data (Fingerprints and photos).
Pay the visa fee.
Be prepared to answer questions about your study plan, accommodation, and financial means.

Receive Visa

Once approved, your visa will be affixed to your passport.
Upon arrival in Germany, you must register your address and apply for a residence permit.

Student Visa Fees

€75

Applicants aged
18 or older.

€37.50

Applicants aged
under 18.

Required Documents for a German Student Visa

Non-European students must gather the following documents to ensure a successful visa application:

Visa Application Form

Complete and sign the form available online through the videx portal on your consulate´s website.

University Admission Letter

The official letter from Schiller International University confirming your enrollment.

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay and contain two blank pages.

Passport-Sized Photos

Two recent biometric photos that meet German visa specifications.

Health Insurance

Provide documentation of health insurance coverage for Germany. Temporary private travel insurance is required until statuary health insurance becomes active.

Financial Proof

Most students must show €11,908 in a blocked account. Other acceptable proofs include sponsorship letters or scholarships.

Academic Records

Include diplomas, transcripts, and any required language certificates.

Working While Studying in Germany

Foreign students in Germany are allowed to work part-time, but restrictions apply.  Students can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year. Working more than this requires special permission from local labor authorities.

Work in Germany After Graduation

Germany offers a number of opportunities for international students to transition into the workforce. Its robust economy and emphasis on innovation make it one of the most sought-after locations in Europe for launching a career.

18-Month Job-Seeking Permit

After completing your degree, you can apply for an 18-month residence permit to search for employment related to your field of study. During this period, you may work in any job to support yourself.

EU Blue Card

If you secure a position with an annual salary of at least €56,800 (€44,304 for jobs in shortage fields like IT or engineering), you may qualify for the EU Blue Card, which simplifies residency and work rights in Germany and the EU.

Permanent Residency

Graduates who work in Germany for at least two years and meet other criteria can apply for permanent residency.

European Union and Schengen Area Access

Graduates from EU, EEA, and Swiss countries do not require visas to work or remain in Germany after graduation. Non-EU graduates, however, must follow the outlined visa and permit procedures.

Disclaimer: The visa requirements and processes for international students studying in Germany are subject to change. We recommend visiting the official German government website or consulting with the German embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Schiller International University is not responsible for any discrepancies or updates not reflected here.

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