If you wish to study in Germany, this may be subject to certain conditions, such as successfully completing a language course. You can also apply for a residence permit for this preparatory study program.

Specifically, you may already be granted a temporary residence permit if

• you have been admitted to a full-time program at a state university, a state-recognized university, or a comparable educational institution, but the admission is subject to conditions, such as proof of completion of your bachelor’s degree.
• You have been admitted to a full-time program at a state university, a state-recognized university, or a comparable educational institution, but the admission is subject to the condition that you first attend a preparatory college or a comparable institution. You do not necessarily have to present an admission letter for this.
• You have been admitted to a state university, a state-recognized university, or a comparable educational institution for part-time study.
• You have been accepted to participate in a preparatory language course without already having admission from a higher education institution.
• You have received confirmation from a company that you will be able to complete a pre-study internship.

When deciding whether to grant your residence permit, the Foreigners’ Office may seek statements from the university or other institutions authorized to provide education or training regarding your eligibility to study.

The residence permit for study will be granted to you for a minimum of 1 year and a maximum of 2 years.

If you are participating in a Union or multilateral program with mobility measures, such as the European Union’s ERASMUS+ program, or if an agreement between two or more higher education institutions applies to you, your residence permit will be granted for at least 2 years.

For the duration of your stay, you must generally have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and health insurance coverage.

With the residence permit, you may work up to 140 days per year. You may also engage in part-time student work.

If you are under 18 years of age, your parents or legal guardians must consent to your stay in Germany.

• You are not entitled to a residence permit. It is at the discretion of the Immigration Office whether to grant the residence permit.
• Please ensure that your information is accurate and complete so that your application can be processed without delay.

• File an appeal against the decision of the Immigration Office within one month of its notification
• Lawsuit before the court specified in the notice of decision on the appeal, if the appeal is not granted

• 
  Application deadline: 8 weeks. You should apply for a residence permit no later than eight weeks before your current visa or residence permit expires.
• 
  Appeal period: 1 month. An appeal against the decision of the Foreigners’ Registration Office must be filed within one month of notification.

Approx. 6 to 8 weeks

Processing times may vary depending on the workload of the immigration office.

It takes about 4 to 6 weeks for the Federal Printing Office to produce the electronic residence permit.

The immigration office responsible for the applicant's place of residence is responsible for processing the application.

• Fee: EUR 50.
  00 This fee applies if you are a minor.
• Fee: EUR 100.
  00 Under certain conditions, you may be eligible for a fee reduction or exemption.