Visa information

If you are a part of the European Union or one under an agreement with Germany (Honduras, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, USA) then you do not need a visa. All other countries need a visa in order to enter Germany. You must apply for one in either the German embassy or consulate in your country.
A student visa is given once the applicant proves that they have been accepted to study in Germany and that they can afford their stay. An acceptance of study can also include admission to a Studienkolleg or a German language course.
The entrance visa is generally valid for 3 months. Once a student has arrived into Germany and has started studying they must then apply for a long duration residence permit. Never come to Germany on a tourist visa. A tourist visa cannot be made into a student visa.

Documents needed when applying for a student visa:
- 2 print outs of the application + 2 identity photographs
- a valid passport
- letter of acceptance from a German university
- a letter stating that the applicant has a guardian who is a resident of Germany
- certificate showing that you are taking German language courses
- certificate that proves you have completed secondary education
- last report card
- visa fee

FOR CITIZENS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
Authorisation of stay (Aufenthaltsgenehmigung):
All citizens of the EU must apply at the foreign office (Ausländerbehörde). You must bring your identity card or passport and your proof of residence, 4 identity photographs and a certificate from the university stating their acceptance.
The German residence permit is valid for 5 years, however in some cases the validity of the permit is in relation to the length of the contract of employment. (Note: a work permit is not required for EU citizens). You must register at the foreign office if you plan on staying for more than 3 months or if you have a paid job for more than one month.
Authorization of stay for citizens from outside the EU, you need to follow the same format but also include a proof of financial resources of more than 1000 DM per month (US$ 460), proof that you are a member of a medical insurance, your acceptance in an educational institutions, and your visa.

Declaration of residency (Anmeldung):
Everybody that resides in Germany must register their presence in the country within 8 days of arrival, at the Domicile Declaration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt). The declaration form, which can be found in a stationary store, must be signed by the interested party (renter) and the owner of the property. If you have to move while in the country, you must then declare this situation to the Einwohnermeldeamt within 8 days stating your new address. If you stay in a hotel or an inn for less than 2 months, then you do not need to worry about the declaration of residency.
The administrative obligations can be a real headache at the beginning of your stay. Do not get discouraged and if you need help ask the foreign students office at the university.