Visa Requirements for Pakistani Students to Study in Germany

Every Pakistani student should be aware of the visa requirements before they move to Germany, as this can be one of the most critical factors in applying for a visa in this European country. Germany offers unparalleled advantages to Pakistani students in terms of top notch education and future job opportunities post-education completion. However, getting a student visa takes work, as there is some serious work that goes into getting one, and with that in mind, we have crafted this guide to assist you with the student visa application for Germany. In addition to that, here's an easy guide on what you need and how to prepare, and the list of visa requirements to study in Germany.

Essential Documents to fulfill the Visa Requirements for Pakistani students

To start your visa application process, ensure you have the following documents ready:

Valid Passport
- Your passport must include at least two blank pages.
- Authorities must issue your passport within the last 10 years.
Visa Application Form
- You must complete and sign the application form, including the additional contact declaration (2 copies).
Passport Photos
- Provide three recent biometric passport-sized photos.
Copy of Passport Data Page
- You must submit two A4-sized photocopies of your passport's data page.
APS Certificate
Students applying to EIIET do not need an APS certificate, but it is recommended.

University Admission and Academic Records for Visa Requirements for Pakistani students

Letter of Admission
- You must obtain a confirmation letter from a recognized German university or institution. Additionally, ensure it specifies the language of instruction for your program.
Academic Qualifications
- You must provide certified copies of your 10th, 12th, and degree certificates and transcripts, if applicable.
Financial Proof:
- Students must demonstrate that they can support themselves during their stay in Germany financially.
- Accepted proofs include
  - Blocked Account:
    - You must deposit at least €11,904 for the first year in a blocked account. This is applicable from 1 September 2024.
    - You can withdraw up to €992 monthly.
  - Sponsor Letter:
    - A formal obligation letter, called a Verpflichtungserklärung, issued by a sponsor in Germany.
  - Scholarship Proof:
    - If a German or EU scholarship funds you, submit official documentation.
Additional Documents
- Language Proficiency:
  - You must submit test scores such as TOEFL, IELTS, or Goethe. You don't need this if your admission letter confirms your language skills.
Health and Travel Insurance:
- You'll need valid travel health insurance starting from your planned travel date.
- You must have travel insurance coverage for the first 90 days of your stay in Germany.
Tuition Fee Received
- You must provide proof of tuition payment, if applicable.
Motivation Letter
- Write a concise letter explaining your study plans, career goals, and why you chose Germany.
Visa Fee: You must pay a visa application fee of €75, payable in Pakistani rupees at the current exchange rate.

Some frequently asked questions

Is it possible for Pakistani citizens to work in Germany while having a student visa?

Yes, Pakistani nationals with valid student visas in Germany are allowed to work during the term of their study, but with a slight limitation: 120 full days or 240 half days a year. You will want to work longer; you need permission from the Agentur für Arbeit or the Immigration Office.

Can Pakistani Nationals Get Permanent Residence With a German Student Visa?

If a Pakistani citizen applies for a student visa, permanent residence permits cannot be granted. In this case, if you wish to stay in the country after your studies, you should find a job and apply for a work visa or an EU Blue Card if you are a qualified individual. If you don't have a job by the time you complete your degree, you can apply for a job seeker visa and stay in the country for up to eighteen more months to find one. In case the search is successful, you need to apply for a residence permit for employed foreigners in Germany that may later be transformed into permanent residence.

How Long Does a German Student Visa Interview Take in Pakistan?

In that sense, some interviews for obtaining a German student visa can take from one hour up to more than a couple of hours; sometimes, depending on the embassy/consulate, you will be contacted by questionnaires.

Am I able to bring family members along on a student German visa from Pakistan?

You can bring your closest family member, your partner, and dependent children if your student visa satisfies the following norms:

You are on a valid residence permit in the country.
You and your spouse were married when you got the residence permit.
The duration of the foreigner's stay in the federal territory is expected to exceed one year.
You can support yourself and your family members during their stay in Germany.

Final Tips for a Smooth Application Process

Prepare two sets of documents in A4 size.
Carry original documents to your visa appointment for verification.
Authorities may take 6–8 weeks to process your visa, so apply as early as possible.
Review your application thoroughly to avoid delays caused by missing or incorrect information.

Germany offers excellent education and a plethora of opportunities to build your career and network globally. Hence, you should be very careful while preparing your visa application and ensure everything is in order; you'll take one step closer to a bright academic future in Europe. This guide is tailored to make the process simpler for students like you. Good luck!