Student visa · Australia to Germany

National Student Visa (Type D)

Embassy required

• Maximum stay: 730 days
• Processing time: 6-12 weeks
• Fee: €75
• Validity: Initially up to 2 years, renewable
• Entry: Multiple entry

National visa (Type D) for full-time studies at a German university or institution. Includes undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate programs, Studienkolleg preparatory courses, and language courses. Students can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year (20 hours/week). The blocked account requirement for 2026 is €11,904 (€992/month). Minors pay reduced fee of €37.50.

Eligibility

• Purpose of visit

  For full-time enrollment in undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate studies, Studienkolleg, or language courses at German institutions.

  Includes

  • Full-time study
  • preparatory courses
  • German language learning
• Financial

  Must prove sufficient funds through blocked account, scholarship, or declaration of commitment.

  Minimum funds: €11,904 for first year (€992/month)

• Age

  Typically 18+ for university, but younger students accepted for certain programs with parental consent.

  Min age: 16

Documents you need

• Passport

  Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3

• Photo

  Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, color, white background, biometric

• Travel insurance

  Coverage area: Germany and Schengen; Minimum coverage: €30,000 or statutory German health insurance

• Admission letter

  Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: Yes

• Application form

  Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

  Form name: National Visa Application Form; Form url: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/

• Cover letter

  Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.

• Curriculum vitae

  Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.

• Academic transcript

  Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.

  Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes

• Proof of address

  Provide current address evidence, such as a utility bill, tenancy document, residence certificate or official correspondence.

  Accepted documents: Housing contract, dormitory confirmation, or preliminary housing arrangement; Max age months: 3

• Language proficiency

  Accepted tests: German: TestDaF, DSH, Goethe Certificate; English: TOEFL, IELTS for English-taught programs; Minimum score: Varies by institution

• Blocked account

  Accepted banks: German or approved European banks; Minimum amount: €11,904 for first year

How to apply

1. Online application

   Complete national visa application form online.

2. Document gathering

   Gather admission letter, blocked account confirmation, transcripts, language certificates, insurance, and other documents.

3. Appointment booking

   Schedule appointment at German embassy/consulate. Apply as early as possible, up to 6 months before program start.

4. Fee payment

   Pay the national visa fee.

5. Biometrics

   Provide biometric data at appointment.

6. Interview

   Attend interview to discuss study plans and financial situation.

7. Document submission

   Submit all required documents.

8. Processing wait

   Wait for visa processing.

9. Visa collection

   Collect passport with student visa.

This information is general guidance only and can change frequently. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for help.