German Student Visa Application Process
Explore student visa requirements, types, fees, application process and eligibility for studying abroad
Explore student visa requirements, types, fees, application process and eligibility for studying abroad
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The German student visa processing time for the long-term visa has been reduced from nine months to just two weeks, and the labor shortage has also been announced. This news is a jackpot for the Indian students. With this shortage, the number of students intake and scholarship opportunities will increase. In this scenario, delaying your decision could mean missing out on a great opportunity. Therefore, to help you avoid mistakes and hecticness, we have listed every step in detail.
The application process for the German student visa is easy. If you apply with the right application process even your German student visa processing time will decrease. All you need are the right German Visa Requirement documents. Follow the process to apply:
The German student visa application portal, where you can submit your application is known as Videx. When you visit the website translate it to English because it is available in Germany by default. Also, choose the long-term stay application form, if you are planning to stay longer than one year for your course.
The application form consists of six sections that must be filled out with the correct and valid information. Remember, this is the application form that you are required to submit when you visit the German Embassy center. Let’s walk through what is required in each section.
Personal Information:
Fill in your personal information, and your parent’s details, and if applicable add previous work experience. Be careful while filling in the details, any kind of spelling mistakes can jeopardize your study abroad dream. Before moving to the next section verify all information against your official documents.
Contact Details:
Enter your contact details, in the address tabs, fill in the current address and not your permanent address, especially if the two are different.
Identity Documents:
The most important tab which consumes most of the German student visa processing time. You must submit your passport details and other documents like an Aadhaar card or PAN card, are not required at this stage. However, carry them during the interview.
Travel Dates:
Don’t book your travel tickets before the visa approval. However, you should know your course date. You can fill in your estimated travel date at least two weeks before the session begins.
Reference:
In this section, provide accurate information about your university. You can get all the asked information in your Letter of Acceptance.
Living Expenses and Residence Details:
This section isn’t enquiring about your current address in India. Before the application you need to arrange a place to stay it can be a hotel for a temporary basis or an apartment that you might rent for your stay in Germany. You are required to provide the booking or a rent agreement as proof.
After completing the application form, print out a color copy of it. Next, visit the VFS Global website to book an appointment. You are required to create an account and fill in the information. While doing so, select the VFS center closest to your location for your appointment.
After booking your appointment, you will receive an email with the date and time. Here are some important rules and regulations to follow when attending your appointment:
When you visit the embassy for your appointment, pay the application fee. Be sure to collect the demand draft as it serves as proof of payment.
The cost of the student application varies depending on the university you apply to, or the financial aid you are getting. To calculate the immediate funds stay updated with the current currency exchange rate and changes introduced by the government in the visa application.
| Type | Cost | Validity |
|---|---|---|
|
Student Application Fee |
Free to €75 (varies by university) |
Not applicable (one-time application fee) |
|
Student Visa Fee |
€75 |
Typically 3–6 months (initial entry visa) |
|
Residence Permit (Student) |
€100 (for the first application) |
1–2 years (can be extended depending on study) |
The visa application is direct, but when it comes to filling out the form, it can feel overwhelming. Your entire future depends on that submit button, so, take your time. Go through every piece of information carefully, check your documents, and ensure they meet the required specifications. Remember, there's no need to rush, you can take more than a week to complete the application. Just be conscious about the German student visa processing time to avoid missing your chance for this session. In case you are worried about your finances get the right guidance, to overcome the financial hurdle. GyanDhan has several educational loan plans that would help you take the next step with assurance, knowing you're well-prepared for the adventure ahead.
The short-term visa takes around 15 days to process, however, the long-term visa takes at least two months. To expedite your German student visa processing time, apply early with all required documents or consider applying for a short-term visa in urgent situations.
The Schengen Visa is advantageous as it allows travel to 26 other countries, including Germany. If eligible, you can explore these countries on the same visa.
From 1 June 2024, Germany's Opportunity Card program will take effect. This program offers an additional year on the residence card for individuals who score less than 6 in their studies.
The German student visa is valid for 3 months, and that is enough to get settled and to know a country. You can then obtain a residence card, register your address, and stay in Germany for the duration of your studies.
Yes, IELTS is required for the German student visa, and you can’t submit an exemption letter. Therefore, work harder to achieve the required score for admission.
Many universities accept a 5.5 band score on the English Proficiency Test, but requirements can vary.
Yes, 12th marks are important for a German student visa, even though the eligibility criteria require 50%, make sure to score higher.
With increasing competition for student visas, gaining admission to German universities can be challenging.
