Visa and residence permit for study
Section 16b Residence Act
Non-EU students admitted to a state or state-recognised German university apply for a national (D) visa and then a residence permit for study. They must prove funds, usually with a blocked account, and have health insurance. Students may work part-time and can stay up to 18 months after graduating to look for work.
Life in Germany
Money
3
Currency
Euro
EUR
Euro
Cost of living
81
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
14–45%
Income tax (national)
VAT 19%
Basic allowance EUR 12,348; 42% from EUR 69,879 and 45% above EUR 277,825 (single); solidarity surcharge of 5.5% of the tax for high earners and optional church tax.
Living
1
Happiness
#16 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Your edge here Members
What gives you an edge here: passports, visas and permits you hold, work, study, language and family ties
Who it’s for
Non-EU nationals admitted to full-time study at a German university, including preparatory courses (Studienkolleg) and required language courses.
Eligibility
University admission
You need admission to full-time study at a state or state-recognised university, or proof of admission to a preparatory measure such as a Studienkolleg.
Proof of funds
You usually need to show funds through a blocked account; some other proof may be accepted instead.
Money to show for the first year
- First yearstated by embassies
- EUR 11,904
- Per monthstated by embassies
- EUR 992
- A formal sponsor declaration may be accepted instead
- An education loan may be accepted instead
Official wording
Usually a blocked account. Embassies state EUR 11,904 for the first year (EUR 992 per month). A scholarship, formal sponsor declaration or education loan may be accepted instead.
Tuition fees
If your university charges tuition, show you paid for the first year or increase the blocked amount.
Official wording
If the university charges tuition, you must prove payment for the first year or increase the blocked amount.
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Next requirementHealth insurance
- Document checklistValid passport
- FeesNational visa fee
The full requirements are for members
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- 5 more requirements
- 10 documents
- 4 fees
- 7 steps
- Processing times and conditions
Programs and scholarships Members
Study programs here that can lead to work and settlement, grouped by route and ranked for your background, with scholarships matched to your profile.
Places to visit in Germany
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