National visa (type D): Application procedure and documents required

Please use the Federal Foreign Offices's Visa Navigator (click here) to check the official entry visa requirements for Germany.

IF you need an entry visa, then it is best advised to begin the process as soon as possible. To ensure a sufficient processing time, it is recommended to submit a completed application 5-6 months in advance, if possible.

The first step is to refer to the official information provided by the German Embassy/Consulate responsible for your current place of registered residence. You may use the Consulate Finder to search for the responsible German mission.

In most cases, an online application for a national visa for study purposes can be submitted conveniently using the international portal - Consular Services Portal (CSP). If an online application option is unavailable for your selected 'country', the portal will guide you on how to proceed using an offline visa application procedure.

IF you hold any previous educational qualifications from an institution based in China/India/Vietnam, note that an APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) certificate is mandatory before you can apply for a student visa for Germany. An APS certificate, once obtained, confirms that your academic documents and educational qualifications have been verified. Please follow the detailed information available on the official websites.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following checklist has been prepared based upon previous students' experiences. German visa authorities or local immigration offices reserve the right to request additional documents. The final decision of approving a visa or a residence permit rests solely with the German immigration authorities.

  • General documents required

    We strongly advise you to submit a well-prepared application to increase the likelihood of a quicker and positive outcome.

    • Valid passport
    • Completed VIDEX visa application form
    • Educational transcripts, degrees, and certificates
    • A recognized English language certificate (ideally C1 level, e.g. IELTS or ALTE member)
    • Proof of basic German language skills, if acquired (e.g. TELC or Goethe certificate or equivalent)
    • APS certificate (if applicable)
    • ESCP Letter of Admission/Certificate of Enrolment (primary version) and/or current semester matriculation letter from Berlin's programme office team
    • Statement of Purpose (2-3 pages self-prepared motivation letter)
    • CV in tabular format
    • Proof of funds for living expenses (e.g. Fintiba blocked account or declaration of commitment)
    • Proof of funds for outstanding tuition fees (if applicable)
    • Receipt of first-year (in Germany) tuition fee payment
    • German health insurance confirmation
    • Travel insurance confirmation
    • Accommodation reservation (e.g. covering your initial stay in Berlin)
    • Birth/marriage certificate or name-change documents (if applicable)
    • Recent passport size photographs
    • €75 visa fee (subject to change)
    • Cover letter (a self-prepared letter addressed to the German visa authorities summarizing your application and documents being submitted)
    • Reference or recommendation letters (if required)
    • In case of a minor (below 18 years of age): A notarized declaration of consent signed by both the parents authorizing the minor to study and reside in Germany; additional document applicable in case of absence of one parent depending upon the circumstances; confirmation of a legally appointed guardian responsible for the minor's stay in Germany; identification proof of parents and legal guardian; etc...

  • Difference between a Visa and a Residence Permit

    A visa is an entry document that can be applied for at the German Embassy or Consulate from the current country of registered residence or from your home country. This can be done before entering Germany.

    A residence permit is an extension application of a stay that can be applied for at the local immigration offices in Germany. This can be done after entering Germany.