How to get an internship Visa for Germany: Step-by-Step Guide #

Germany stands out as one of Europe’s most popular destinations for international students and young professionals eager to gain hands-on work experience.

If you’ve already landed an internship or plan to find one after you arrive, the German internship visa allows you to live and work in the country legally for a set period of time.

In this easy step-by-step guide, you’ll learn:

• Who qualifies for a German internship visa and when you need to apply
• The essential documents required, such as your internship confirmation and valid health insurance
• How and where to submit your visa application through the German embassy or consulate
• Typical processing times, fees, and practical tips to avoid common mistakes
• What to do once you arrive in Germany, including how to register your address and open a local bank account

What is the Germany internship visa? #

A German internship visa is a temporary residence permit that allows non-EU citizens to take part in an internship with a company or organization in Germany. This applies to both paid and unpaid positions.

It’s a popular option for university students, recent graduates, and young professionals who want to gain practical experience either as part of their studies or to strengthen their career prospects.

Unlike a tourist or Schengen visa, the internship visa gives you the legal right to work in Germany for the duration of your internship. If your placement lasts longer than 90 days, or if you’re from a country that is not visa-exempt, this visa is required.

Who needs a German internship Visa? #

You’ll need an internship visa for Germany if:

• You’re a non-EU citizen
• Your internship lasts longer than 90 days
• Your home country doesn’t have a visa exemption agreement with Germany

Even if you’re from a visa-exempt country such as the United States, Canada, or Australia, you’ll still need to apply for a residence permit in Germany if your internship goes beyond 90 days.

To avoid any delays or confusion, many applicants choose to get their visa before traveling to Germany.

In most cases, you’ll also need approval from the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit). This step ensures your internship meets German labor standards and legal requirements. Your employer or internship provider typically handles this process by submitting details about your role, the internship conditions, and your qualifications. The agency then reviews your application to confirm that everything complies with employment and immigration laws before giving official approval.

Internship visa requirements: what documents you will need #

When applying for a German internship visa, you’ll need to submit several important documents that prove your eligibility and meet Germany’s visa regulations. Each document plays a key role in ensuring your application is processed smoothly.

Valid Passport #

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Germany and contain at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

If your passport is close to expiring, it’s a good idea to renew it before starting your visa application to prevent any delays or issues during processing.

Internship Agreement or Confirmation Letter #

Your future employer or internship provider in Germany must issue a signed internship contract or a formal confirmation letter. This document should clearly include:

• The start and end dates of your internship
• Your role and key responsibilities
• The working hours and, if applicable, monthly compensation

Without this letter, your visa application cannot move forward, as it serves as proof of your internship placement in Germany.

Federal Employment Agency Approval #

If you’re a non-EU citizen, most internships in Germany require pre-approval from the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit). This approval ensures that your internship follows German labor laws and provides genuine training opportunities rather than replacing regular employment.

Once you’ve secured an internship, your employer or internship provider in Germany will typically handle this approval process for you. However, it’s important to ask for a copy of the approval letter, as you’ll need to include it with your visa application.

Proof of Financial Resources #

When applying for a German internship visa, you’ll need to show that you have enough financial means to cover your living expenses during your stay in Germany. As of now, the required amount is at least €992 per month (gross).

You can prove your financial stability in one of the following ways:

• Blocked bank account (Sperrkonto): A dedicated account that holds enough funds to cover your stay. This is the most common method used by international students and interns.
• Formal sponsorship letter: A document from someone (such as a family member or sponsor) who agrees to cover your living costs while you’re in Germany.
• Scholarship confirmation: If you’re receiving a scholarship, you can provide an official letter showing the amount and duration of the financial support.

Many students and interns choose to open a blocked account before applying for their visa. Several banks and providers, including Deutsche Bank, offer this service specifically for international applicants.

Proof of Visa-Compliant Health Insurance #

Having valid health insurance is a mandatory requirement for getting your German internship visa approved.

For this type of visa, you must provide proof of comprehensive health insurance that meets German standards travel insurance alone is not accepted for long-stay (D visa) applications. To ensure full protection from your first day in Germany, it’s best to choose health insurance or another plan specifically designed for international students and interns. Read about Feather health insurance

Your health insurance should clearly cover:

• Outpatient and inpatient medical care
• Emergency medical treatment
• Repatriation costs, if required by the German embassy or consulate

Having the right insurance plan not only helps your visa application get approved but also ensures peace of mind during your stay in Germany.

Completed Visa Application Form #

To apply for your German internship visa, you must submit a completed national visa application form. This form is available for download on your local German embassy or consulate website.

Be sure to fill out the form accurately and completely, and don’t forget to sign it before submission. Incomplete or unsigned forms can delay your application process.

Some German embassies now allow applicants to fill out and submit the form online before their visa appointment, so it’s a good idea to check your local embassy’s website for the latest application options.

Biometric Passport Photos #

You’ll need to provide two recent biometric passport photos measuring 35mm x 45mm that meet official German photo standards.

Make sure your photos follow all the required specifications, including correct size, lighting, facial expression, and background color. Photos that don’t meet these standards will be rejected, which can delay your visa application.

To avoid any issues, it’s best to have your photos taken at a professional photo studio familiar with German visa photo requirements.

Motivational Letter #

As part of your German internship visa application, you’ll need to include a motivational letter explaining why you want to complete your internship in Germany. This letter gives visa officers insight into your goals and helps them understand the purpose of your stay.

Your motivational letter should highlight:

• Your career goals and what you hope to achieve in the future
• How the internship supports your studies or professional development
• Why you chose this particular company or field and what makes it meaningful to you

A well-written motivational letter demonstrates that you have clear intentions and a genuine interest in the opportunity. It can make a strong impression and often becomes a key factor in your visa approval.

Proof of Educational Status #

When applying for a German internship visa, you must show proof of your current educational status.

• If you’re a current student, include an official confirmation of enrollment from your university or college.
• If you’re a recent graduate, submit a copy of your degree certificate or your academic transcripts instead.

Some internships in Germany specifically require that applicants are actively enrolled in a study program, so it’s important to check your employer’s requirements carefully before applying. Providing the correct educational documents ensures your visa application is complete and avoids unnecessary delays.

How to apply for the internship visa step-by-step #

Once you’ve gathered all your required documents, you can start the application process for your German internship visa. Here’s a simple step by step overview of how it works:

1. Book an Appointment #

Schedule an appointment at your local German embassy or consulate. Waiting times can vary depending on your location, so it’s best to book as early as possible to avoid delays.

2. Submit Your Application in Person #

On the day of your appointment, submit your visa application and all supporting documents in person. You’ll also need to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photos) and may be asked a few questions about your internship and future plans.

3. Pay the Visa Fee #

The standard fee for a long-stay internship visa is €75. Be sure to check your embassy’s payment options, as some only accept cash or specific payment methods.

4. Wait for Processing #

Visa processing times typically range from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the embassy or consulate. To avoid last-minute stress, apply well in advance of your intended start date.

5. Receive Your Visa and Prepare for Your Move #

Once your visa is approved, you’ll receive your passport with the internship visa sticker. You can then start preparing for your move to Germany including booking your travel, arranging housing, and organizing your documents for arrival.

After you arrive in Germany #

Register your address (Anmeldung) #

Within 14 days of moving into your new home, you must register your address (Anmeldung) at your local Bürgeramt. Bring your:

• Passport and visa
• Signed rental contract
• Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation form)

This step is essential without it, you can’t open a bank account or extend your visa.

Open a Bank Account #

Next, open a German bank account to manage your finances, receive payments, and pay rent easily. Many expats choose online banks like N26 for quick and hassle-free account setup.

Once you are in Germany, we’ve got you covered with a full set of step by step guides from getting home from the airport and finding accommodation, to opening a bank account, completing your Anmeldung, getting health insurance, buying a SIM card, and extending your visa.
Explore all our guides here: Arrival and Setup in Germany