A German Language Course Visa is granted to foreign individuals looking to participate in an intensive language program lasting between 3 to 12 months. The course must consist of a minimum of 18 hours of lessons per week.
In certain situations, the language course visa can be extended for up to one year, provided the individual’s intention is not to pursue further education in Germany.
With a German Language Course Visa, you are allowed to:
- * Engage in an intensive German language course
- * Request an extension of the visa if you do not plan to transition to full-time studies; the extension can be granted for up to 1 year (counted from the day of arrival in Germany)
However, there are limitations:
- * You cannot convert it into a student or student applicant visa
- * It cannot be transformed into a work permit
- * No gainful employment is permitted
- * University studies cannot be initiated
- * Application for university admission is not allowed
If you wish to continue your studies directly after completing the language course, you must return to your home country to apply for a Germany Student Visa. It is not possible to apply for a Student Visa/Permit while staying in Germany.
The validity of a German Language Course Visa corresponds to the duration of the course, ranging from three months to one year, and it cannot be extended while in Germany.
What Are the Criteria for Applying for a German Language Course Visa?
- 1. Two fully filled-out visa application forms.
- 2. A valid passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond your planned return date and not older than 10 years, with at least two blank visa pages).
- 3. Confirmation of enrollment in the language course or a certificate of enrollment (with a minimum of 18 hours of classes per week).
- 4. Proof of financial means (“Finanzierungsnachweis”):
- * Personal financial statements for the last three months,
- * Scholarship award certificate,
- * Statement of a blocked account (“Sperrkonto”)—you can open one through Expatrio.
- * Letter of commitment (“Verpflichtungserklärung”) from a host living in Germany.
- * Declaration from parents expressing financial support with salary slips or bank transactions from the past six months.
- 5. Health insurance covering the entire stay in Germany (we recommend EDUCARE24 by DR-WALTER).
- 6. Two recent passport-sized photographs (adhering to strict requirements).
- 7. Three photocopies of passport ID pages.
- 8. Copies of previous Schengen visas (if applicable).
- 9. A motivation letter for attending the language course.
- 10. Proof of accommodation for the entire stay.
- 11. Official leave letter from the employer (signed and stamped) for employees.
- 12. Proof of a paid visa fee of 75 Euros.
Note: Attach 2 photocopies to each original document.
Upon arriving in Germany within the initial week, individuals must register their address at the “Bürgerbüro” or residence registration offices. In this scenario, visa holders are required to present confirmation of attending a minimum of 18 hours of course lessons, proof of adequate health insurance coverage, and evidence of possessing sufficient funds for the entire duration of the visa.
What Documents Do You Need for a Residence Permit with a Language Course Visa in Germany?
If you’re on a Language Course Visa in Germany and planning to stay for more than 3 months, you must apply for a residence permit within your first 90 days in the country.
To obtain the language course visa residence permit, submit the following documents to the Local Foreigner’s Authority:
- 1. Valid passport/travel document with a stamped visa
- 2. Recent biometric photograph
- 3. Completed and signed Residence Permit application form “Antrag auf Erteilung eines Aufenthaltstitels”
- 4. Proof of course attendance
- 5. Certificate of registration in the language course from the language school
- 6. Agreement with the language institution (issued by the same)
- 7. Health insurance coverage for the entire stay (recommend EDUCARE24 by DR-WALTER)
- 8. Proof of accommodation, which can be:
- * Address registration certificate “Meldebestätigung”
- * Rental contract + residence confirmation letter “Einzugsbestätigung” by the owner
- 9. Proof of financial means (11,208 euros per year):
- * Personal financial statements for the last three months
- * Scholarship award certificate
- * Fixed deposit statement “Sperrkonto” – blocked account
- * Letter of commitment “Verpflichtungserklärung” from a host living in Germany
- * Letter of declaration from parents stating financial support, along with salary slips or bank account transactions for the past six months.
Additionally, for recognized certifications, you must successfully pass one of the following examinations:
- 1. Test of German as a Foreign Language (TestDaF)
- 2. Goethe Institute German Language Diploma (GDS)
- 3. German Language Diploma of the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs, Level II (DSD)
Frequently Asked Questions
Embarking on this linguistic journey involves a visa processing time of approximately [insert time here]. However, factors such as the completeness of your application can impact the duration.
Yes, you’re permitted to work part-time during your language course. The visa grants you the flexibility to support yourself while immersing in the language and culture.
Indeed, various scholarships cater to language learners. Research and explore funding options to ease the financial aspects of your language journey.
Commonly accepted exams include [mention exams here]. Ensure you meet the required proficiency level to qualify for the German language course visa.
Absolutely! Successful completion of your language course opens doors to extended opportunities. Explore options for further studies or employment in Germany.
Numerous resources, including online courses, language schools, and study materials, can enhance your preparation. Tailor your approach to suit your learning style.