How to Get a Language Course Visa for Germany #
If your goal is to truly dive into the German language and experience the culture firsthand, applying for a language course visa is one of the best ways to begin. This type of visa is specifically intended for non-EU citizens who wish to stay in Germany for more than 90 days to focus exclusively on learning the language.
Whether you’re preparing for university studies, advancing your career, or simply hoping to understand German life more deeply, this visa gives you the opportunity to study in Germany for up to one year.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- Who is eligible to apply for a language course visa and how long it remains valid
- Which language programs meet the visa requirements
- The documents you need to prepare for your application
- What steps to take after arriving in Germany to stay compliant
- Why health insurance is required
What is the German language course visa? #
The German language course visa (Sprachkursvisum) is a national visa that allows non-EU citizens to live in Germany while taking part in an intensive German language program.
Unlike a short-term tourist visa, this visa is meant for courses that last anywhere from three months to one year. It is an ideal choice for anyone who wants to dedicate their time entirely to learning the language without combining it with work.
It’s important to know that you cannot switch this visa into another type, such as a work visa or student visa, while you are still in Germany. If you plan to stay longer for employment or further studies, you will need to leave the country and apply for a new visa from your home country.
Who can apply for the German language course visa? #
The German language course visa is intended for citizens of countries outside the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA) who want to attend a long-term, in-person German language course in Germany.
If you are from a visa-exempt country, you will still need this visa if your course is longer than 90 days. Citizens of EU and EEA countries do not require this visa to study in Germany.
To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be enrolled in a full-time, in-person German language program.
- The course must include at least 18 hours of instruction per week.
- You must show proof that you can financially support yourself for the duration of your stay.
- You need valid health insurance that covers the entire period of your visa.
This visa is not suitable for tourists, part-time students, or those who plan to work while in Germany.
How to choose the right language course for your visa #
Not every German language class meets the requirements for a language course visa. To qualify, you must register for a full-time, intensive, in-person course, online programs or part-time classes will not be accepted.
The course must include at least 18 hours of instruction per week and run for a minimum of three months. Many students choose longer programs, typically lasting six to twelve months, to make the most of their learning experience.
It’s also important to choose a recognised and reputable language school. The school should provide official documentation confirming your enrollment, tuition payment, and course details.
Some well-known German language schools include:
When applying for your visa, you will need an official enrollment letter from the language school. This letter must clearly state the course start and end dates, total tuition fees, and confirmation that your payment has been received.
Required documents to apply for the German language course visa #
Having all the necessary documents ready is a key part of a successful visa application. Incomplete or missing paperwork is one of the most common reasons applications are delayed or even refused, so it’s important to prepare everything carefully before you apply.
The application form and passport #
You must complete the national visa application form, which is usually available on the website of your nearest German embassy or consulate. Ensure that all the details you provide are accurate and consistent with the rest of your documents. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the end of your stay in Germany and should have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
Proof of enrollment #
Your chosen language school needs to issue an official enrollment letter confirming key details such as the course duration, the number of weekly instruction hours, and the total tuition fees. The German authorities will also want to see proof of payment either a receipt showing you’ve paid in full or evidence of a deposit.
Financial proof(opening a blocked account) #
To demonstrate that you can support yourself financially while studying in Germany, most applicants open a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with a German bank. This account limits how much money you can withdraw each month, ensuring you have sufficient funds for living expenses during your stay. In some cases, a formal sponsorship letter or a scholarship confirmation may also be accepted as proof of financial means.
Proof of accommodation #
You will need to provide evidence of where you plan to live while studying in Germany. This could include a rental agreement for an apartment, a confirmation of a room in a shared flat, or a housing confirmation from your language school if accommodation is included in the course package. Short-term hotel or hostel bookings are sometimes accepted for the first few weeks after arrival, but you will eventually need to show a longer-term housing plan. Read our accommodation guide
Health insurance requirements #
Having valid health insurance is a mandatory condition for obtaining a German language course visa. Travel insurance alone is not enough, you must have a comprehensive policy that covers both outpatient and inpatient medical care for the entire duration of your stay.
As a language student in Germany, you cannot enroll in public (statutory) health insurance, you must register with a private insurance provider.
- Allianz
- AXA
- DKV
- HanseMerkur
- Hallesche
- DR-Walter
- Ottonova
Visa application fee details #
The standard fee for a German language course visa is €75. However, payment methods can vary depending on the embassy or consulate handling your application. It’s a good idea to check their specific requirements in advance to know whether you’ll need to pay in cash, by card, or through another accepted method at your visa appointment.
How to apply for the German language course visa #
Step 1: Register for your language course #
The first step is to enroll in an eligible German language program and obtain an official enrollment confirmation from the school. This confirmation is a key document and must be included when you apply for your visa.
Step 2: Collect all necessary documents #
Next, gather all the required paperwork to ensure a smooth application process. These typically include:
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport
- Recent biometric passport photos
- Proof of sufficient financial resources
- Evidence of accommodation in Germany
- Confirmation of health insurance coverage
Make sure every document is accurate and up to date. Missing or incomplete paperwork is one of the most common reasons for delays or visa rejections.
Step 3: Book your visa appointment #
Once you have all your documents ready, contact the German embassy or consulate in your home country to schedule a visa interview. Appointment availability can vary, and in some cases, you may need to wait several weeks or even months so it’s a good idea to book as early as possible.
Step 4: Attend the visa interview #
On the day of your appointment, bring your complete application package and any additional documents requested by the consulate. During the interview, you may be asked about your motivation for learning German and your plans after completing the course. Make sure to clearly explain that your primary intention is to study the language.
Step 5: Wait for your visa decision #
After your interview, the visa processing stage begins. Processing times depend on the embassy and your country of residence, but it typically takes 4 to 12 weeks. Be patient during this period and check for any updates or notifications from the consulate regarding your application status.
What to do after arriving in Germany: Essential Steps for Language Course Visa Holders #
Register your address #
Within two weeks of arriving in Germany, you are required to register your new address (Anmeldung) at the local citizens’ office (Bürgeramt). Once registered, you’ll receive a confirmation certificate, which you’ll need for important tasks like opening a bank account or signing contracts.
Attend your language course #
Regular attendance at your language classes is essential, as your visa is directly tied to your participation. Missing classes or failing to complete the course could put your residence permit at risk.
Find part-time work opportunities #
If you want to support yourself financially during your stay in Germany, you are allowed to work part-time with a language course visa but there are restrictions. You can work up to 20 hours per week while studying. Job platforms like Glassdoor, Indeed, Stepstone, CareerBee, and zuhausejobs are good places to start your search for suitable part-time positions.
Keep your health insurance active #
Maintaining valid health insurance is essential while living and studying in Germany. Without it, your visa can be denied, and you may encounter legal or financial issues even after your arrival. Make sure your health insurance remains valid for the entire duration of your stay to stay fully protected and compliant with visa requirements.
Final tips for a successful visa process #
Start your application early to give yourself enough time to gather documents and book an appointment. Check the specific requirements of your local consulate, as they can differ. Keep your health insurance active, maintain sufficient funds in your blocked account, and attend your language classes regularly to stay compliant.
Remember, the language course visa cannot be extended or converted into another visa type while in Germany. If you plan to stay longer for work or studies, you’ll need to return to your home country and apply for a new visa.
Following these steps carefully will make the process smoother and help you begin your language-learning journey in Germany without complications.
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