🇩🇪 Germany · Student

Student Visa (Section 16b AufenthG) — requirements, costs & how to apply

Official source Updated 2026-06-22 · Government page ↗

Who is eligible

Proof of savings€11,904
Educationsecondary
Language levelB2
Health insuranceRequired (valid in-country)

Costs

Application / consular fee€75

Duration & renewal

Initial stay: 24 months. Does not lead directly to permanent residence.

Who can apply

Open to all nationalities.

How to apply

  1. Confirm you meet the eligibility above.
  2. Gather documents and apply via the official portal: https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence/types/studying.

Frequently asked

Does this visa lead to permanent residence?

No — it does not lead directly to permanent residence.

Do I need health insurance?

Yes — valid health insurance in the country is required.

Sources & verification

Every figure on this page is taken from an official government source and dated. Nothing is inferred.

Language level

“Some programmes require a certain level of language proficiency, usually level B2.”

No direct PR path

“Visto de estudante = residência TEMPORÁRIA pela duração dos estudos; a fonte não confere residência permanente (PR via rota pós-estudo separada). not_applicable. Programa: With its wide range of study programmes and low tuition fees, Germany attracts many international students every year.”

Open to all nationalities

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Informational only, not legal or immigration advice. Requirements change — always confirm on the official government source linked above before applying. Last verified 2026-06-22.

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