Visa for Germany – What You Need to Know
If you want to travel to Germany or live there for an extended period of time, you will often need a visa. In this post, you’ll learn what types of visas exist, what you should pay attention to, and what applies specifically to Studienkollegs or working with a visa.
Whether you need a visa and what requirements apply to your country can always be found on the website of the German Embassy or Consulate General in your home country. Please check there for up-to-date and detailed information.
Types of Visas
In general, there are two main types of visas for Germany:
Schengen Visa (Short Stay):
For stays up to 90 days (e.g. tourism, business trips, language courses), visa type C, valid for travel within the Schengen Area.
National Visa (Long Stay):
For stays over 90 days (e.g. studying, working, au pair, family reunification), required for anyone who wants to live or work in Germany long-term. This visa is often linked to a residence permit that you apply for after arriving in Germany.
📝 Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Citizens of non-EU countries (third-country nationals) usually need a visa before entering Germany. You’ll find the exact requirements on the website of the German Embassy in your home country.
General Tips for Your Visa Application
To ensure your visa application is successful, keep the following points in mind:
1. Start early
You should begin preparing at least 6–8 weeks before your planned trip, as embassy appointments are often limited and waiting times can be long. Proper preparation also speeds up the process.
2. Choose the correct visa type
There are two main types of visas, differing in duration and purpose. Decide in advance which one you need:
- National Visa: For study, work, family reunification, etc. (more than 90 days)
- Schengen Visa (Type C): For holidays, short visits (up to 90 days)
→ Find out which visa you need using the Visa Navigator.
3. Submit all documents completely and correctly
Missing documents are one of the most common reasons for rejection. Make sure all documents are submitted in full and correctly, with a translation into German or English, sometimes even a certified translation.
4. Prepare proof of financial means
Examples: blocked account, formal obligation letter, scholarship. This proves that you can support yourself during your stay.
5. Write a motivation letter
The motivation letter helps convince the embassy why you personally should receive the visa (e.g. student visa). It should include:
- Why do you want to go to Germany?
- What is your goal? (e.g. studies, work experience, cultural exchange)
- What do you plan after your stay?
6. Be well-prepared for the visa interview
Typical questions include: Why do you want to go to Germany? What will you do after your stay? Who is paying for your trip?
→ Be honest, calm, and precise when answering questions.
7. Keep copies
Save digital and printed copies of all submitted documents. You might need them again later or be asked to show them.
8. Be patient
Once your application is submitted, you’ll need to wait.
Processing time varies: Schengen Visa: about 14 business days and National Visa several weeks to months depending on your country and the purpose of stay.
Visa for Studienkolleg
If you want to attend a Studienkolleg in Germany, you will need a national visa for the purpose of study preparation. Make sure you meet the following criteria:
- University entrance qualification from your home country (e.g. school certificate, transcript)
- Proof of language skills (usually B1 or B2 in German)
- Proof of financial means (e.g. blocked account)
- Planned enrollment in a Studienkolleg (possibly with pre-registration or invitation letter)
- Valid health insurance
Before applying, carefully check all requirements with the German embassy or consulate responsible for your country.
But no worries. If you choose Studienkolleg Düsseldorf, we will be happy to support you with specific visa tips.
Visa or Residence Permit – What’s the Difference?
You get your visa before entering Germany, at the German embassy or consulate in your country. The residence permit is applied for after arrival, at the local Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde) in Germany.
→ For a long-term stay, you usually need both: Visa to enter Germany + residence permit to stay longer.
Can I Work with a Student Visa?
Yes – but only under certain conditions:
With a student visa, you’re allowed to work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. This applies to regular student jobs, e.g. in cafés, supermarkets, or as a working student.
Internships that are mandatory as part of your studies do not count toward the 120-day rule.
❗ Important: These rules can change – always check the specific conditions listed in your visa or residence permit.
⇒ Working with a visa is possible, but depends heavily on the exact visa type. Read your document carefully and ask the Foreigners’ Office if in doubt.
