What is the Germany long-stay student visa?
Germany is one of Europe’s top education hubs, offering high-quality universities, industry-focused programs, and affordable study options. If you plan to study in Germany for more than 90 days, you will need the Germany long-stay student visa.
What Is the Germany Long-Stay Student Visa?
The Germany long-stay student visa, also known as the National Visa (Type D), is a residence visa that allows international students to stay in Germany long-term for academic studies.
It is issued to students who have:
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A university admission letter
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Conditional admission
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Language course confirmation
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Studienkolleg (foundation course) admission
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Preparatory or pathway program enrollment
The long-stay visa is typically valid for 3 to 6 months, and after arriving in Germany, students must convert it into a residence permit.
Who Needs a Germany Long-Stay Student Visa?
You need this visa if you are:
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A non-EU/non-EEA citizen
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Planning to study in Germany for more than 90 days
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Enrolling in Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, language, or pathway programs
Citizens of EU/EEA countries do not need a visa.
What Can Students Do With a Long-Stay Student Visa?
This visa allows students to:
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Enter Germany legally
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Register with local authorities
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Apply for a residence permit
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Begin university studies
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Attend language or preparatory courses
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Work part-time (once the residence permit is issued)
It is the essential first step toward studying in Germany long-term.
How Long Is the Visa Valid?
The initial visa is valid for 3–6 months, depending on the embassy decision.
After you arrive in Germany, you must apply for a student residence permit, which is usually valid for:
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1–2 years, renewable until the end of your studies.
What Are the Requirements for the Long-Stay Student Visa?
Typical requirements include:
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Valid passport
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University or Studienkolleg admission letter
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Financial proof (€11,208 in a blocked account for 1 year)
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Academic transcripts
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Language certificate (English or German, depending on program)
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Motivation letter
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Health insurance
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Visa application form
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Passport photographs
Requirements may vary slightly by embassy.
Can Students Work on the Germany Long-Stay Student Visa?
Students can start working after converting the visa into a residence permit.
The student residence permit allows:
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120 full days, or
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240 half-days per year
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Unlimited on-campus work (in many cases)
This makes Germany one of the most flexible countries for student employment.
What Happens After Arriving in Germany?
Once you reach Germany, you must:
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Register your address (Anmeldung)
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Open a bank account (if needed)
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Validate your health insurance
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Schedule an appointment with the immigration office (Ausländerbehörde)
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Apply for the student residence permit
The residence permit is the document that allows you to legally live and study in Germany.
How Long Does the Visa Process Take?
Germany’s student visa process generally takes:
4 to 8 weeks
But in some countries, embassy appointment wait times are longer, so early preparation is recommended.
Final Thoughts
The Germany long-stay student visa is the key to beginning your academic journey in one of Europe’s top education destinations. It allows you to enter the country legally, start your studies, and later apply for a residence permit.
With the right documents and early planning, the process is straightforward and student-friendly.
