Visa / Residence permit

International students normally require a visa for study purposes. A tourist visa is not sufficient as you would have to reapply for the correct visa from your home country! Participants of university-preparatory language courses require a visa for study purposes with university preparatory courses. Students who are citizens of EU and EEA member states or Switzerland do not require a visa.
Please inquire in advance as to whether you need a student visa or entry visa to travel to Germany.

You can apply for a visa from the German embassy in your home country. The approval process can take several months, so be sure to submit your application as soon as possible after receiving your notification of admission. We strongly recommend collecting information about the application process and the procedure for arranging an appointment at the German embassy in your country at an early stage.

In addition to the notification of university admission, you are also required to include proof of sufficient financial resources with your visa application. Those who apply for a student visa must provide proof that they have approximately 11,208 euros at their disposal for the first year of study so that they can cover their costs of living in Germany and pay any tuition or semester fees if necessary.

Further information on costs and financing

Information on blocked bank accounts

If you require a visa to enter Germany, you will have to apply for a residence permit after arriving in Germany and before your visa expires. If you are allowed to enter Germany without a visa, you must apply for a residence permit within 90 days after your arrival. Please arrange an appointment with the Foreigners’ Registration Office as soon as possible. The electronic residence permit, which you will have to apply for, costs around 110 euros.

Appointment request with the City of Münster

Please note
Your residence title is valid for a limited period of time and you must take care of an extension at least three months before it expires. If you have problems with the extension of your residence permit, please make use of our advisory services.

Visa advice of the International Office