Germany Student Visa Guide
National Visa for Study (Type D)
For non-EU students attending a recognised German university for >90 days. Apply at the German embassy in your home country.
Last checked against the official source on 2026-09-29.
- Application fee
- €75
- Processing
- 6–12 weeks
- Validity
- 3–6 months entry; converted to residence permit on arrival
- Work rights
- 140 full days or 280 half days a year, or up to 20 hours a week in term (unrestricted in semester breaks). Post-study 18-month job-search residence permit.
Germany student visa costs
| Cost | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National visa fee | €75 | About ₹8,200 |
| Blocked account | €11,904 for one year | About ₹13 lakh; released to you at €992 a month |
| Tuition at most public universities | None or very low | Some states and private universities charge fees |
| Semester contribution | Typically a few hundred euros | Often includes a public transport ticket |
| Health insurance | Varies | Required; students usually join public insurance |
| APS certificate | Fee applies | Required for Indian applicants |
Document checklist
- ✓University admission letter (Zulassung)
- ✓Blocked account with EUR 11,904For one year of living costs (EUR 992 a month); confirm the current amount on Study in Germany before transferring.
- ✓Travel health insurance
- ✓Academic transcripts + APS certificateAPS certificate is required for Indian applicants.
- ✓Language proof: German B1/B2 OR English IELTS 6.5+Depends on program language.
- ✓Motivation letter
- ✓Valid passport + biometric photos
- ✓Visa application form (filled in German or English)
Step-by-step process
- 1
Get admission + APS
Receive Zulassung from your German university.
- 2
Open a blocked account
Deutsche Bank, Expatrio, Fintiba — deposit EUR 11,904.
- 3
Buy travel insurance
Mandatory for first 3 months.
- 4
Book embassy appointment
German consulates often have 2–4 month waitlists — book early.
- 5
Submit application
In-person at embassy / VFS with all documents.
- 6
Wait for visa
On arrival, register address (Anmeldung) and apply for residence permit at Ausländerbehörde.
Interview tips
- Be honest about why Germany — public universities + low fees are valid reasons.
- Demonstrate language ability appropriate to the course.
- Know your university's curriculum and city.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Late embassy booking — slot waitlists are months long.
- APS not completed before application.
- Insufficient blocked-account amount.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the blocked account for a German student visa?
€11,904 for one year, released to you at about €992 a month after you arrive.
Do Indian students need APS for a German student visa?
Yes. Indian applicants need an APS certificate, which can take weeks, so start early.
What is the German student visa fee?
€75 for a national (Type D) visa.
How many hours can I work in Germany as a student?
140 full days or 280 half days a year, or up to 20 hours a week during term, with no limit in semester breaks.
Can I stay in Germany after graduating?
Yes. Graduates can get a residence permit of up to 18 months to look for work.
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Other student visa guides
Official source: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/visabestimmungen-node/-/231148. General guidance only — verify current requirements before applying.