Visa and Residence Permit

Understanding visa and residence permit requirements is a crucial step for international students joining ESCP. The process varies based on your nationality and the campus where you will be studying. Whether you need a student visa, a residence permit, or special documentation for mobility within the EU, this section provides a first glance on official websites and available support for students moving to France, Germany, Spain, Italy and the United Kingdom. Each ESCP campus has a dedicated office to assist you with these procedures. Once you have confirmed your offer at ESCP, you will gain access to detailed guidelines and personalised support from our staff, ensuring a smooth transition to your new campus.

  • BERLIN

    In general, all non-European citizens, who intend to study for longer than 90 days in Germany, need a German national visa (type D) to be obtained before entry. However, if you already hold a valid Schengen member state's residence permit (a plastic card or a residence permit sticker on your passport page), then it may be possible to enter Germany from another EU Schengen member state without obtaining a prior student visa for Germany, and subsequently applying for a German student residence permit as soon as possible at the local immigration office upon arrival. Also, certain citizens enjoy preferential treatment and can enter Germany without obtaining an entry visa according to section 41 of the German Residence Ordinance. You may consult through the German Federal Foreign Office's Visa Navigator.

    Note that engaging in gainful employment in Germany is possible if you hold a valid German visa or a German residence permit that allows employment to non-European citizens.

    Since visa procedures can take time, we strongly recommend applying for a visa as early as possible. The waiting period for some countries is up to one year.

    For more specific information, please visit the Berlin Visa & Residence Permit  section or contact us at visasupport.berlin@escp.eu

  • LONDON

    Before traveling to the UK, check whether you need a visa on the UK Home Office website.

    Standard Visitor Visa (for stays up to 6 months): Allows multiple entries but cannot be extended or switched to another visa. You cannot work, do an internship, or apply for the Graduate Immigration Route. Apply online before traveling: Standard Visitor Visa application.

    Student Visa (for stays over 6 months): Required for students planning to stay longer, do an internship, or work (up to 20 hours per week during term time). You need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) Letter from ESCP to apply. Check details on the UK Visas & Immigration website.

    Choose the right visa before applying, as switching while in the UK is not allowed.

    If you need any support, don't hesitate to contact us at visasupportlondon@escp.eu

  • MADRID

    If you are an international student planning to study in Spain, it is important to check the visa requirements based on your nationality and the length of your stay. Non-EU students typically need a student visa, which must be obtained before arriving in Spain. We recommend consulting the Spanish consulate or embassy in your home country for the latest visa guidelines. Additionally, make sure to arrange health insurance, accommodation, and necessary financial documentation to ensure a smooth transition to student life in Madrid.

    Our advice is that you look over this list of required documents and assess how much time it will take to collect these items before making your appointment to assure you will have a realistic amount of time to complete everything.

    Download the VISA GUIDE.

    For more information click HERE.

  • PARIS

    If you are an international student planning to study in France, it is essential to prepare for your arrival in advance. Depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay, you may need a student visa. We recommend checking the official guidelines on Campus France to determine the visa type required for your studies. You can also perform a simulation thanks to the visa assistant on the website France visas.

    Additionally, ensure you arrange health insurance, accommodation, and a French bank account before your arrival to facilitate a smooth transition into student life in France.

  • TURIN

    If you need a visa to study in Italy, check the official guidelines from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to verify the requirements and necessary documentation. Your visa must be a Type D (study visa), allowing you to stay for the duration of your studies. Since visa procedures can up to 90 days, we strongly recommend preparing your documents in advance and booking an appointment as early as possible. For official information, visit the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

    For specific information about the Italian residence permit application, please visit the Turin Campus Residence Permit section or contact the Student Experience team at sxturin@escp.eu.