German Student Visa Guide

Indian students aspiring to study abroad are already struggling with other top countries like Canada and the UK. As visa regulations tightened in the top countries, other countries followed, including Germany, and introduced changes in the rules and regulations to manage the influx of students. This decision was also made due to a significant increase of 15.1% in a year as reported by the Federal Statistical Office of Germany.

 

The good news is that other countries imposed stringent regulations; Germany introduced adjustments, regarding the immediate funds. So, we’ve brought you a comprehensive guide to help you with these new changes concerning the German student visa. Let’s dive deeper!

These new regulations have changed the picture of German student visa applications. It made the application process easier and stringent at the same time. They even contributed to a rise in rejection rates from 10% to 18%. Below are the key changes you need to be aware of:

Decreased Processing Time:

German student visa processing time has been reduced from nine months to two weeks. Now, students can apply for early sessions without worrying about visa approval. Still, apply for the German visa at least four months before the session. 

Increased Immediate Funds:

Earlier students were required to show ₹10,42,848 as immediate funds to obtain their student visa. However, this amount has now increased to ₹1,107,608. Therefore, if you are planning to study in Germany, add an additional ₹64,759 to your expenses.

Semester Fee:

German universities increased EUR 320 per semester, which amounts to ₹29,744 for Indian students. This means that you are required around ₹60,000 more to cover your one-year tuition fees. Note that this amount may vary depending on the course you choose.

 

 

One-year Extension on Residence Card:

Previously, residence cards were valid for 18 months, after which the students were required to switch to a work visa to extend their stay. But, recently the German government announced that students can now extend their residence card for one year while they search for full-time employment.

Labour Shortage:

Due to a labor shortage in Germany, work opportunities increased for Indian students. You can take advantage of this situation by applying for the EU Blue Card sooner than previously required.

Two types of student visas are there which allow students to travel to Germany, each suited for different study durations:

The Schengen Visa (C Visa):

If you plan to pursue short-term courses (less than one year) in Germany, the C Visa is an option. The minimum duration of the C-Visa is three months, and it doesn’t permit part-time work opportunities. 

The National Visa (D Visa):

For those planning to study a long-term course, the D Visa is required. This visa has three subtypes, each serving different purposes:

 

German Student Visa:

When a student has secured admission to a higher education institute in Germany, you can apply for this visa.

 

German Student Applicant Visa:

This visa is for students who have applied to a preparatory or state-approved institution and have a good chance of securing admission. You can apply for this visa without a Letter of Acceptance (LOA).

 

German Language Course Visa:

If you want to pursue a German Language course without enrolling in a university, you can apply for this visa.

 

Note: As a maximum number of student visa for Germany from India apply for the German student visa, we’ve crafted this guide specifically for that visa type.

The eligibility criteria for a German student visa may vary depending on the course, but general requirements include the following:

Age Requirement:

Students should be between 18 to 30 years old. If you are under 18, you must submit a consent letter from your parents, granting permission for you to travel to Germany alone.

Educational Background:

You are required to provide educational certificates when filling out your application. For bachelor's courses, you should have your secondary education certificates. For master's courses, you require secondary education certificates and, a graduation degree. Additionally, you must submit proof of English proficiency to show your ability to communicate effectively.

Course of Study:

Not all programs or universities qualify for the German student visa. Courses offered online or by institutions not certified by German immigration, as well as part-time courses, are not eligible for this visa.

Before applying for a Germany study visa from India, ensure you have prepared the following documents: 

Passport:

A valid passport with all valid information and two blank pages. The passport is also used for verification during the visa application process.

Photographs:

Provide three passport-sized photographs that meet the specified dimensions and quality requirements outlined in the visa guidelines.

Letter of Acceptance (LOA):

The LOA is provided by the institution where you have secured admission. It is used to verify your admission and also determine the fund's requirements for the visa application.

Academic Evaluation Centre (APS) Certificate:

The APS certificate is submitted during the visa application process instead of the education certificates of the Indian applicant.

Proof of Funds:

As an international student, you are required to submit documents that showcase the financial ability of the sponsor to cover your living expenses in Germany. This includes providing income tax returns, bank statements, or blocked account details to show income and immediate availability of funds. Additionally, you must provide a letter confirming payment of university fees.

Health Insurance:

You must acquire health insurance from an Indian provider to cover medical expenses for the first three months of your stay. After three months, you can obtain health insurance from a German public provider.

Motivation Letter:

The motivation letter for German student visa should explain your reasons for wanting to study in Germany, including details about your family background, study plans, and how the course will benefit you upon returning to India. It helps the interviewer evaluate your genuine intent to return.

 

Note: For detailed information, read Your Ultimate Checklist for German Student Visa Requirements. 

After you’ve prepared all the documents, now you are required to apply for a student visa.

 

Fill in the Application Form:

Visit the Videx website and fill in the application form. Get the printout of the form and sign it.

Schedule an Appointment:

Book an appointment at the VFS Global website. To avail the right guidance read German Student Visa Processing for details.

Visit The Embassy:

You’ll receive a date & time for the interview and document submission. Carry all your documents with two photocopies.

Get a Deman Draft:

During the appointment, you have to pay the application fee. Card and cash both are acceptable and obtain the demand draft as proof of payment. 

Prepare for Interview:

Prepare thoroughly for your visa interview, which usually lasts 10-20 minutes. Although it is brief, it can be a stressful experience, so practicing in advance will help avoid any issues.

All the cost related to the German student visa is summed up in the table below: 

The German student visa interview typically lasts around 10-12 minutes. During this time, you will be asked about yourself and your plans. Here are some key pointers to help you prepare:

Research About Your Course:

Research well about the course and career opportunities it offers. And also know how the chosen university is the best choice for that particular course.

Highlight Your Ties to India:

Emphasize your connections to India, such as family and community ties, to assure the immigration officer that you intend to return to India after completing your studies.

Understand Your Finances:

Be prepared to discuss your financial situation, including how you will support yourself and the role of your sponsor. Visa officers may question whether the financial support comes from immediate family or extended family members, so provide clear and honest information.

Getting your visa approved is just the beginning of your journey. The real journey starts when you land in an international to start a new life all alone. Here are some important steps to take after landing:

Pass-Through Checkpoint:

Upon deplaning, you will need to go through customs and immigration checkpoints. Be prepared to show all your documents and verify that the information you provided during your visa application is accurate.

Get the Residence Card:

You have three months from your arrival to apply for and obtain your residence card. Ensure you complete this process within the allotted time and follow the German regulations.

 

Score well in Academics:

Maintaining good academic performance is crucial. You are generally required to achieve a minimum GPA of 6.0. Failing to meet this requirement could impact your future studies or visa status.