Passport and Visa

A valid passport is necessary when coming to Germany. For EU citizens, an ID card is sufficient provided that the citizenship is stated on the card.

Generally, citizens of countries outside the EU have to obtain a visa BEFORE they come to Germany. A visa is NOT required for semi-annual visits of up to three months for nationals of countries for which the visa requirement has been abolished. The recent list of countries is available at www.auswaertiges-amt.de

Visitors, who need a visa have to apply for it at the German Embassy/Consulate in their home country or their country of residency. Please apply for a national visa with the purpose “guest scientist” or “PhD student”.

The national visa will be issued for 3 months. For the extension of the visa you need to apply for a residence permit in Germany.

There is an exception for citizens from Australia, Brazil, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the USA. They can apply for the residence permit after arrival and do not need a visa to enter the country.

Note: People who intend to work or study in Germany must not enter the country on a tourist visa.

Proof of sufficient medical insurance is one of the most important conditions for obtaining a visitor's visa for foreign guests and visitors, who need a Visa in order to enter Germany or the EU. Please pay close attention that your Medical Travel Insurance for the foreigners must fully comply with the requirements for a Schengen Visa by the European Union. The travel insurance for Germany must be valid in all Schengen countries, not only Germany, and provide medical coverage of at least 30,000 Euros.