One of the types of visas that facilitates your move to Germany if you are a student and wish to study at its universities is the study visa, which you may obtain through a government scholarship, having a sponsor, or opening a bank account.
Important requirements for a study visa
When you are accepted into an institution of higher education in Germany, you must be able to cover your living expenses for the entire duration of your study program. You can prove that you possess sufficient financial resources through a blocked bank account (with a minimum of €11,904 in 2026), a scholarship, or a declaration of commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung).
What fields are open to you if you obtain the study visa?
Your duration of stay under the study visa will initially be 2 years, and if you do not obtain your degree, you can extend it for an additional 2 years. Some people are not satisfied with studying alone and intend to work; therefore, you can work for up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, or for up to 20 hours per week. You can also work part-time as a student for an unlimited period.
What after graduation and success?
Your visa does not stop here and you return empty-handed; you are facing the step of modifying your visa. You can apply to obtain a job-search residence permit, which lasts for up to 18 months and is a means to find a job. Upon finding a suitable position, you can apply to convert your residence permit for study purposes into a residence permit for skilled workers or the EU Blue Card.
What is your plan if you do not find a study place?
If you do not secure a study place at a higher education institution in Germany, you can apply for a higher education entrance application visa (valid for 9 months and non-renewable). You must fulfill specific conditions related to proving that you have obtained a high school diploma that qualifies you to study at a German higher education institution or to enroll in a preparatory course for university admission.
You must also meet the language requirements for your chosen study program by contacting the German embassy or consulate in your home country to find out the required documents, and be able to cover your living expenses throughout your stay, either by opening a blocked bank account with a minimum of €1,091 per month (as of 2026) or by submitting a declaration of commitment.
Can you transition from a higher education entrance visa to a study visa?
Yes, once you are accepted into a higher education institution in Germany or into a preparatory program for university admission, you can apply to the local foreigners' authority (Ausländerbehörde) to obtain a residence permit for studies pursuant to Section 16b of the Residence Act (AufenthG).