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 Federal Foreign Office website 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.

    Search for the nearest Spanish consulate or BLS agency in your country.

    A few countries might have none, but you will have the option to apply from a country nearby.

    Remember to double-check the visa application requirements with them.

    Here is the official list of Spanish Consulates.

    Once you’ve found your consulate you’ll need to look through the consulate’s website and find the list of requirements needed to be considered as an applicant. Here is a list of typical requirements for a visa application to give you an idea of the kind of paperwork you will need to gather:

    • Certificate of enrolment for visa purposes. (provided by ESCP)Official Registration Order. (RUCT & BOCM, provided by ESCP)
    • Official Registration Order. (RUCT & BOCM, provided by ESCP)Criminal records from the countries you have had residence in the past 5 years.
    • Criminal records from the countries you have had residence in the past 5 years.
    • Updated passport that will NOT expire while you are away.
    • Letter from your doctor stating you are able to travel.
    • Proof of insurance for the duration of the trip.
    • At least 2 passport sized photos.
    • Proof of funds to support yourself or notarised proof of a second party supporting you (amount often differs from consulate to consulate)
    • Proof of accommodation. (ESCP can provide it for visa purposes only)
    • Proof of tuition fees payment (you can request it here)

    ALL DOCUMENTS MUST BE IN SPANISH.

    Please note: every consulate has its own unique requirements and you will always need to double check with them before starting.

    Many of the documents listed above require appointments, processing times and multiple steps. Make sure to start as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary stress.

    Important: If you are staying for longer than 6 months, make sure you secure a rental contract for minimum 6 months (you will need it for your TIE card).

    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.

    If there's any additional help that you need you can contact our campus at visamadrid@escp.eu or book an online appointment here.

  • PARIS

    Most non-European students need a Visa for their stay in France. Visit the official Campus France website here for confirmation about the documents and steps.

    General information to obtain a Student Visa:

    • Contact the French Consulate or Campus France in your country of residence at least three months before your departure to get all the information about the Visa process (deadlines, supporting documents to provide, etc.).

    You can also perform a simulation thanks to the visa assistant on the website France-visas.

    For additional information or questions, please contact studentaffairs@escp.eu.

  • 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 more information or questions about the Italian residence permit application, please contact the Student Experience team at sxturin@escp.eu.