Do You Need a Visa?
Whether or not you need a visa to enter Germany depends on your nationality:
No Visa Required:
- Citizens of EU countries, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, do not need a visa to enter or reside in Germany. You can simply enter with a valid ID card or passport.
Visa-Free Entry, Residence Permit Required:
- Citizens of countries like Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States can enter Germany without a visa. However, you must apply for a residence permit at the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) within 90 days of arrival if you plan to stay long-term.
Visa Required:
- All other non-EU citizens must apply for a student visa at the German embassy or consulate in their home country before traveling to Germany.
Types of Visas
There are two main types of visas that may apply to international students:
Schengen Visa (Short Stay – up to 90 days)
- Not suitable for full-time studies. This visa is for short-term visits such as language courses, short-term certification programs, or attending seminars.
- ⚠️ Important: You cannot convert a Schengen visa into a student visa while in Germany.
National Visa (D-Visa – Long Stay)
This is the correct visa for studying at IB Hochschule. It allows you to stay in Germany for longer than 90 days and must be converted into a residence permit after arrival.
Types include:
- Student Visa: For applicants who already have a letter of admission from IB Hochschule.
- Prospective Student Visa: For those who have applied but are still awaiting admission or need to meet additional entrance requirements. This visa is valid for up to nine months.
How to Apply for a Visa
You must apply for your visa at the German diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate) in your home country. Processing times can vary greatly and may take several weeks to months, so we recommend applying as early as possible once you receive your admission letter.
IB Hochschule will provide:
- Your official Letter of Admission
- Enrollment Confirmation, upon request
- Guidance on opening a blocked account and obtaining health insurance
- Personalized support from our International Office throughout the application process
Required Documents
While exact requirements can vary slightly by country, you will typically need the following documents:
- A valid passport
- Your letter of admission from IB Hochschule
- Proof of sufficient financial resources (e.g., a blocked account with €11,208 per year or a scholarship)
- Health insurance coverage valid in Germany
- Proof of previous academic qualifications
- Proof of language proficiency (English or German, depending on your study program)
- A detailed motivation letter
- Biometric passport photos
Our International Office will gladly advise you on how to prepare and submit these documents correctly.
Financial Requirements
To obtain a student visa, you must show proof of adequate financial resources. As of January 2023, you must demonstrate €934 per month (equivalent to €11,208 per year) to cover your living expenses in Germany.
Acceptable proof includes:
- A blocked bank account ("Sperrkonto") in your name
- A scholarship confirmation
- A formal obligation letter ("Verpflichtungserklärung") from a sponsor in Germany
IB Hochschule tip: We can help you navigate the process of setting up a blocked account and understanding your financial documentation requirements.
After Arrival in Germany
Once you arrive in Germany with your national visa:
- Register your residence at the local registration office (Bürgeramt)
- Apply for a residence permit at the Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners' Office)
- Activate your blocked account and health insurance
- Submit any remaining enrollment documents to IB Hochschule
IB Hochschule is Here for You
Navigating the visa process can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. Our International Office is dedicated to supporting you before, during, and after your move to Germany. We'll guide you through visa procedures, help with paperwork, and ensure you feel confident as you begin your studies at IB Hochschule.
If you have questions or need personalized advice, contact us at: international@ib-hochschule.de