Germany — National Visa (D) for Study
Official requirements and preparation checklist
Visa Readiness Guide: These requirements are sourced from official government websites. Always verify current requirements directly with the official source before proceeding. Requirements may change without notice.
University Admission Letter
You must provide confirmation of admission (Zulassungsbescheid) from a German higher-education institution, or proof of application/conditional admission for an applicant visa.
Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) Financial Proof
You must prove sufficient funds to cover living costs — for 2026 this is €11,904 per year (€992 per month), most commonly held in a blocked account (Sperrkonto), or via a scholarship award or a formal declaration of commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung).
Health Insurance
You must hold valid health insurance covering the period from your arrival until enrolment, after which you take out German statutory or private student health insurance.
Valid Passport
You must hold a passport valid for the duration of your intended stay.
Language Proficiency
You must provide proof of the German and/or English language ability required by your study programme (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, or IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programmes).
Residence Permit Registration on Arrival
After arriving you must register your address (Anmeldung) and apply for a residence permit for study purposes at the local Foreigners' Registration Office (Ausländerbehörde).