Federal Republic of Germany · study

German Student residence permit

Residence permit for international students enrolled at recognised German higher education institutions.

Sponsor requiredNon-settlement1–2 years at a time; renewable for programme duration.

Last reviewed: 18 April 2026

Overview

International students receive a residence permit for study tied to their programme. German public universities charge minimal or no tuition fees at Bachelor's level in most Länder; maintenance funds are the main financial barrier. After graduation, students can extend their permit for up to 18 months to search for qualifying employment.

Processing time

Visa typically 4–12 weeks.

See source window: 4 weeks – 3 months →

Government fees

Visa €75; residence permit €100.

Typical duration

1–2 years at a time; renewable for programme duration.

Primary source

Make it in Germany — Study · BMWK / Federal Government

Link last verified: 18 April 2026

Eligibility

Typical criteria

Admission to a recognised German higher education institution.
Financial means — typically evidenced via a blocked account of around €11,904/year (updated periodically).
German or English language meeting course requirements.
Health insurance.

Common blockers

Institution not recognised or programme not qualifying.
Insufficient blocked account balance.

Typical evidence

Admission letter from German institution.
Blocked account certificate.
Health insurance cover.

Application pathway

Step 1
Secure university admission
Apply via uni-assist or direct to the institution; many programmes have winter-semester deadlines in mid-July.
Step 2
Open a blocked account and obtain visa
Fund the blocked account; apply for student visa at consulate.
Step 3
Register in Germany and convert visa
Anmeldung; Ausländerbehörde appointment for student residence permit.
Step 4
Graduate and switch to §20 Job Search
After graduation, extend permit for up to 18 months to seek qualifying employment.

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Student

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Frequently asked questions

Can I work while studying in Germany?

Yes. Student residence permit holders can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, or up to 20 hours per week during term.

Need tailored advice?

We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.

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Overview

Eligibility

Typical criteria

Admission to a recognised German higher education institution.
Financial means — typically evidenced via a blocked account of around €11,904/year (updated periodically).
German or English language meeting course requirements.
Health insurance.

Common blockers

Institution not recognised or programme not qualifying.
Insufficient blocked account balance.

Typical evidence

Admission letter from German institution.
Blocked account certificate.
Health insurance cover.

Application pathway

Step 1

Secure university admission

Apply via uni-assist or direct to the institution; many programmes have winter-semester deadlines in mid-July.

Step 2

Open a blocked account and obtain visa

Fund the blocked account; apply for student visa at consulate.

Step 3

Anmeldung; Ausländerbehörde appointment for student residence permit.

Step 4

Graduate and switch to §20 Job Search

After graduation, extend permit for up to 18 months to seek qualifying employment.