GermanyStudy
Explore the five recorded questions, answers and sources for this pathway.
Doctoral studies at a German university, covered by the study residence permit under Section 16b AufenthG.
is also valid for preparatory measures prior to enrolment in higher education, such as language courses, preparatory courses for university admission or similar institutions, or doctoral studies at a German university.
Admission by a state or state-recognised university or comparable educational institution for full-time studies.
For the purpose of full-time studies at a state or state-recognised university or a comparable educational institution, a foreigner is granted a temporary residence permit if he or she has been accepted by the educational institution.
Living costs must be covered for the study programme, e.g. a blocked account of at least EUR 11,904 in 2026, a scholarship or a declaration of commitment; language proficiency may be required depending on the programme (usually B2).
You are able to cover your living costs for the duration of your study programme. You can prove that you have sufficient funds through a blocked bank account ( at least €11,904 in 2026), a scholarship or a declaration of commitment
Some programmes require a certain level of language proficiency, usually level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) . You must prove your language skills to the German embassy or consulate.
Work is allowed for up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year (or up to 20 hours per week); part-time student jobs are unlimited.
During your time at university, you can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, or up to 20 hours per week. You can take part-time student jobs for an unlimited period.
Usually issued for two years initially and renewable for a further two years if the degree is not completed; after graduating, an 18-month job-seeker permit (Section 20(1) no. 1 AufenthG), with conversion to a skilled-worker permit or EU Blue Card once qualified employment is found; settlement after more than two years of work in Germany.
Residence permits for study purposes are usually issued for an initial period of two years. If you have not obtained your degree within this period, you can request to have your residence permit renewed for a further two years.
After successfully completing your degree, you can extend your stay in Germany by applying for a residence permit for jobseekers under Section 20 (1) No. 1 of the Residence Act (AufenthG) (External link) <desc>box with arrow to the right</desc> . The residence permit is issued for up to 18 months as a means of finding skilled employment in Germany. You can work in any occupation while looking for skilled employment. As soon as you have found a qualified employment position, you can apply to convert your residence permit for study purposes into a residence permit for skilled workers or an EU Blue Card
Graduates of German higher education institutions can apply for a settlement permit (Section 18c (1) sentence 2 of the Residence Act (External link) <desc>box with arrow to the right</desc> [AufenthG]) after working in Germany for more than two years.
These are the answers currently recorded in the catalogue. A missing or partial answer is not an eligibility decision.
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Not legal advice. No eligibility verdict or ranking. Check the linked sources before applying.