International students who plan to study in Germany for more than three months are required to obtain a visa. The visa application process can take up several months, including mailing and processing time. Therefore, it is advisable to contact your local German embassy well in advance. To secure a visa, you will need to provide an acceptance letter and proof of sufficient financial means, including adequate health insurance.
You can typically schedule an appointment to apply for a visa even before you receive your admission letter.
However, you will definitely need your admission letter by the time of your appointment. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific documents needed for your visa application, the required level of financial proof, and the funding options available for your studies in Germany.
Important note: If you enter the country on a tourist visa or take advantage of the visa exemption for short stays, you will not be eligible for a student residence permit!
No visa is required for citizens of the following countries
Students of these countries may apply for a student residence permit from the Foreigners' Registration Office after they have entered the country. Please ensure that your passport is valid for the entire duration of your studies in Germany.
Find out more about Visa regulations here: Federal Foreign Office
According to regulations in Germany, you need a valid health insurance from outside of Germany or get insured once you arrive in Germany in order to be permitted to matriculate at our university. Your insurance needs to be valid for the entire duration of your studies, starting the day of your arrival.
Please clarify questions concerning the coverage of your health insurance for your stay in Germany beforehand with your health insurance at home. The insurance must explicitly cover the return transport to your home country in case of emergency. EU citizens may use their European Health Insurance Card.
We recommend taking out personal liability insurance, covering the costs in case you cause any personal or material damage.
EU citizens
Public Health Insurance
You may enter Germany with the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Please contact your health insurance provider at home to find out which services it pays for in Germany. Not all costs are always covered by all foreign health insurance policies.
Private Health Insurance
You must have the validity of your private health insurance policy checked by a German public health insurance company, which can be done during Orientation. If your health insurance covers the minimum requirements, you will receive an exemption certificate, which is required for enrolment at our university. If not, you need to sign up with a German public health insurance.
Non-EU citizens
Public Health Insurance
Even if you have a public health insurance policy in your home country you need to sign up with a German public or private health insurance after your arrival, which covers your entire stay.
Private Health Insurance
Even if you have a private health insurance policy in your home country you need to sign up with a German public or private health insurance after your arrival, which covers your entire stay. If you decide for a private health insurance, you must have its validity checked by a German public health insurance company. If your health insurance covers the minimum requirements, you will receive an exemption certificate, which is required for enrolment at our university.
Find out more about your insurance options here
We recommend taking out personal liability insurance, covering the costs in case you cause any personal or material damage.