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Studies (Studium)
GermanyGermany•Europe
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Studies (Studium)

Study

At a Glance

Processing Time

4 weeks – 3 months

Estimated Cost

EUR €75

Stay Duration

Duration of studies

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Not specified

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Apply Now Official Information
Germany flag

Living in Germany

Cost of Living
2% cheaper than United States
Avg Salary€36,000
Quality of Life
195/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

Study permit for non-EU nationals admitted to a German degree program, valid for the duration of studies with limited work rights and a post-graduation job-seeker extension.

The §16b residence permit lets non-EU nationals study full-time at a state-recognized German university or higher education institution. Applicants need a formal admission letter, a blocked account of at least EUR 11,904 per year, and valid health insurance.

The permit lasts for the duration of studies and is renewable. Holders may work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per year. After graduation, a post-study job-seeker permit of up to 18 months is available, with a clear pathway to a skilled-worker residence permit and eventually permanent residence.

This visa is ideal for non-EU students admitted to a German degree program who plan to work in Germany after graduating.

Germany

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Stay & Extensions

Status typeTied to program duration

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Skilled Worker with Academic Degree (Fachkraft mit akademischer Ausbildung)
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Skilled Worker with Academic Degree (Fachkraft mit akademischer Ausbildung)

ValidityUp to 4 years
Processing1–3 months
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EU Blue Card
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EU Blue Card

Validity4 years
Processing2 weeks – 3 months
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Job Seeker Visa
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Job Seeker Visa

Validity6 months
Processing1–3 months
View Visa Details

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Admission to a full-time course of study at a state-recognized or state-accredited university or comparable educational institution in Germany.

Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover living expenses for at least one year (e.g., blocked account, scholarship, or declaration of commitment).

Proof of valid health insurance coverage for the duration of the stay.

Sufficient language proficiency in the language of instruction (unless verified during the admission process).

Valid passport or equivalent identity document.

KEY CRITERIA

Education

high_school or higher

Min. Savings

11,904 EUR

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport.

Letter of admission from the German university or Studienkolleg.

Proof of financial resources (e.g., blocked account, scholarship award letter, or formal obligation).

Proof of health insurance.

Biometric passport photo.

Completed visa application form.

Academic certificates and diplomas (with translations if applicable).

Curriculum vitae and letter of motivation.

Proof of language proficiency (if required).

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Access to German education
  • Part-time work allowed
  • Pathway to work permit after graduation

Worth Knowing

  • High financial proof required
  • Language proficiency needed

Application Process

1

Secure admission

2

Open blocked account

3

Apply for visa

4

Enter Germany

5

Register residence

6

Apply for residence permit

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