Dreaming of Studying in Germany?
For Indian students aspiring to study in Germany, obtaining a special visa is a
vital step to make that dream come true. The application process may seem
overwhelming, with its intricate forms and unfamiliar requirements. However, with
proper preparation and the support of Visa Facilitation Services (VFS), you’ll be
on your way to securing a Germany Study Visa.
What is Germany VFS in India?
VFS Germany serves as a visa application service provider, working in
collaboration with the German Embassy and Consulates across India to simplify
the student visa application process. Essentially, VFS Germany acts as an
intermediary, offering:
● Assistance with the submission of completed visa applications at the
nearest Germany VFS India centre.
● Optional services, such as courier delivery, application tracking, and
help with form completion.
● VFS service charges, which depend on the number and type of additional
services availed.
Different Types of German Visas
Before diving into the Germany Visa Checklist, let’s explore the various types of
German visas that are relevant for Indian nationals:
1. Student Visa
Indian students planning to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in
Germany must apply for a German Student Visa. To apply for this visa,
you first need to obtain an admission letter from a recognized German
academic program.
2. Language Course Visa
Indians wishing to study German language courses in Germany must
apply for a German Language Visa. It’s advisable to consult your local
German consulate in India to confirm your eligibility for this visa.
3. Student Applicant Visa
This visa is for students who have applied for a study program in Germany
but have not yet received an official admission letter. They can apply for
the German Student Applicant Visa.
4. Job Seeker Visa
Indian students who have completed their degree at a German university
can apply for a Job Seeker Visa after graduation, allowing them to look for
employment opportunities in Germany.
Requirements for German Student Visa for Indian Students
Submitting the correct documents is crucial for a successful German student visa
application. Make sure to provide all necessary documents to the Embassy or
German Consulates in India. Incomplete applications may lead to delays or
rejections.
Here’s a detailed checklist for Indian students applying for a German Student
Visa:
Document Checklist for German Student Visa
1. Completed and Signed Application Form
The application form is available on the official website of the German
Missions in India. The form is straightforward and requires details such
as:
● Full name, date of birth, email address, current address, marital status.
● Educational background, including previous institutions and degrees.
● Travel history, including visits to Schengen Area countries.
● Details of your stay in Germany, including purpose and planned duration.
Tip: Double-check the information to ensure consistency with supporting
documents.
2. Completed Declaration
Another form, available on the German Missions in India website, must
be filled out. It asks for additional information such as:
● Legal representation details (if applicable).
● Additional contact information.
3. Valid Passport
You will need a valid passport with:
● At least 2 free pages.
● An A4 copy of the passport’s data page.
● The passport should have been issued within the last ten years and must
be valid for at least one year after the application date.
4. Biometric Photos
Provide three recent biometric photos:
● Taken within the last six months.
● Dimensions: 35mm (width) x 45mm (height).
● The face should occupy 70-80% of the frame, with no shadows or
obstructions.
● Background: Neutral grey or bright and solid-colored.
5. Acceptance Letter from a German University
This letter confirms that you have been accepted into a German academic
program. It should include:
● Your personal details and information about the university and program.
● Deadline for confirming the acceptance and paying the semester fee
(typically between €200-€400).
6. APS Certificate
The APS India certificate verifies that your documents are genuine and
confirms your eligibility for studying in Germany.
7. Statement of Purpose
This is a mandatory document where you express your motivation and
formally request a student visa.
8. Proof of Financial Resources
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover living costs in
Germany (including accommodation, health insurance, etc.). The required
amount is €934 per month or €11,208 per year.
Common ways to demonstrate financial support:
● Blocked account or Sperrkonto.
● Sponsorship letter or commitment declaration.
● Scholarship letter.
9. Resume/Curriculum Vitae
A resume outlining your academic background, professional experience
(including internships), extracurricular activities, and relevant skills.
10. Proof of Language Proficiency
Provide language proficiency certificates such as TOEFL, IELTS, or
German language certificates (Goethe or OSD), depending on the medium
of instruction for your program.
11.Preliminary Health Insurance
You need health insurance coverage for the first three months of your
stay in Germany. Travel insurance may suffice initially, but you will need
to obtain German health insurance once in the country.
12. Demand Draft
Prepare a demand draft to cover visa-related expenses.
Additional Information
● All documents should be submitted as originals, along with two
photocopies of each.
● Be prepared for the possibility of additional documents being requested.
1. Completed and Signed Application Form
● Available on the German Missions in India website.
● Includes your personal details, educational history, travel history, and
planned stay in Germany.
● Ensure all information is accurate and matches your supporting
documents.
2. Completed Declaration Form
● Available on the German Missions website.
● Includes legal representation details (if applicable) and additional contact
information.
3. Valid Passport
● Must be valid for at least one year from the date of application.
● Must have at least two blank pages.
● Include an A4 copy of the data page.
4. Biometric Photos
● Provide 3 recent passport-size photos.
● Dimensions: 35mm (width) x 45mm (height).
● No shadows in the background, and the background should be neutral or
light grey.
● The face should occupy 70-80% of the frame.
5. Acceptance Letter from a German University
● This letter confirms your admission to a German university and program.
● Includes details like program name, university information, personal
details, and deadlines for accepting the offer.
6. APS Certificate
● Issued by APS India, confirming the authenticity of your documents and
verifying eligibility for study in Germany.
7. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
● A written document expressing your motivation for studying in Germany,
why you chose the program, and why you should be granted a student
visa.
8. Proof of Financial Resources
● You need to show you have enough funds to cover living expenses in
Germany.
● Minimum required amount: €934 per month or €11,208 per year.
● Proof options include:
○ Blocked account (Sperrkonto).
○ Sponsorship letter or financial commitment letter.
○ Scholarship certificate.
9. Resume/Curriculum Vitae
● Include your academic background, professional experience (internships,
jobs), extracurricular activities, and skills relevant to your course of study.
10. Proof of Language Proficiency
● For English-taught programs: Provide TOEFL/IELTS scores.
● For German-taught programs: Provide Goethe or OSD certificates.
11. Preliminary Health Insurance
● Provide proof of health insurance coverage for the first three months of
your stay in Germany (travel insurance may suffice initially).
● After arriving in Germany, you’ll need to purchase German health
insurance for the remainder of your stay.
12. Demand Draft
● Prepare a demand draft to cover the visa processing fee.
Additional Requirements
● All documents should be submitted as originals and two photocopies of
each.
● Depending on the consulate or embassy, additional documents may be