Immigration - Germany

Immigration to Germany

Once you're nominated, you should have your passport firmly in hand. Be sure to keep your acceptance letter from your program; you might need to show this when clearing customs and immigration in Germany.
 

1. Check to see if you need a visa now.

• US citizens do NOT need a visa to enter Germany. You are allowed to stay visa-free for up to 90 days.
• Citizens of other countries should check to see if they need a visa here: Visa Requirements/Exemptions for Entry into the Federal Republic of Germany
• All students (also) need a residence permit to study in Germany.

2. Register your address within a week of arriving in your host city.

Register with the local Resident Registration Office (Bürgeramt or Bürgerbüro). 

• Bring the following documents with you when you go:
  • Passport (with visa, if you have one) or your personal identification card
  • Housing Contract: a copy of your housing assignment (incl. dates) from your study abroad program
• Complete a registration form at the office.
• You'll get a “Confirmation of Registration” (Meldebestätigung).
  • Put it in a safe place!
  • You may need this to apply for your residence permit.

3. Apply for a Residence Permit (Aufenthaltsgenehmigung) after you arrive Germany.

The information below will give you an idea of what to expect, but your program will help you get a residence permit. Be sure to reach out to them directly for more information (e.g., in their student guide) or with any questions on this process. This step is critical to maintaining legal status in Germany, and you must obtain the permit before your 90-day, no-visa stay ends. 
 

A. Locate the Alien Registration Office (Ausländerbehörde) for your host city/town.

• Your program's International Office (Akademisches Auslandsamt, or AAA) can give you the address and tell you exactly which documents you should take along.
• For Berlin, you'll visit the Berlin Foreigners Registration Office within 2 weeks of arrival in Germany. 
• In Berlin and other large cities, you can book an appointment via email for a specific day and time – highly recommended!

B. Gather the documents you need for the appointment.
After you set up the appointment, you'll get an email with a complete & up-to-date list of items you need to bring with you. Make two copies of each document & keep them in your carry-on luggage in case you are asked to show them at the border.

• Valid passport: Your passport must expire 6+ months after the program ends. 
  • Don't forget to sign it! 
  • Non-US Citizens: You may also need a valid visa. See above.
• Confirmation of Registration (Meldebestätigung): See above for instructions on how to get this.
• Proof of Financial Resources: You need to prove you have sufficient monthly resources at your disposal to cover your cost of living. This is the Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG) rate, which is €861+/month (as of Jan 2020). You can use the following forms of proof:
  • Documents certifying your parents' income & financial assets – usually, this will include their last three salary statements & employment contract
  • Security payment deposited into a blocked account – money in these accounts can't be withdrawn until you're in Germany
  • A scholarship awarded by your home government or a German public sponsor
  • Guarantee from a German permanent resident to cover your expenses
  • Bank guarantee from a German bank – promise from your bank to pay your expenses (usually cheaper than a loan)
  • Ask your program directly if you don't have access to these forms of proof; they may be able to provide more options
• Cash for Application Fee (approx. €110): You are responsible for paying the fee at your appointment.
  • Cash only! No checks or credit cards.
  • CGS scholars: Save the receipt & submit it for reimbursement. See the Immigration tab on Cherrington Global Scholars (CGS).
• Certificate of Enrollment/Student ID from your program
  • This will prove you're attending that specific university.
  • More info: Enrolment
• Rental Contract/Confirmation of Residence: Show that you have a place to live in Germany
  • Use a copy of your housing assignment (incl. dates) from your study abroad program
• 2 Passport Photos: These photos need to meet specific requirements, similar to a passport photo in the US. 
• Proof of Health Insurance: You must have health coverage in Germany and it must be recognized by the country.
  • More info: Health Insurance & Health Insurance for Foreigners in Germany
• Other Documents: The Alien Registration Office may require other documents. They will list what you need to bring in the email setting up your appointment (in Germany). Some examples: 
  • Health Certificate
  • Certificates of Earlier Education
  • Proof of Language Skills
  • Letter of Acceptance from your program

C. Apply in person at the Alien Registration Office.

• Appear in person to speak with an official (Beamter/Beamte).
• The official will ask you which permit you want and for how long.

4. Receive Your Residence Permit