Beside an offer for an internship with a company in Germany, you will also need the approval of the Federal Employment Agency (BA). Your employer should apply for this on your behalf as quickly as possible. Your internship may not last more than twelve months and can only be extended in exceptional cases. Some internships do not require the approval of the BA. These include internships under EU-funded programmes (Leonardo, Socrates, Erasmus, etc.). Internships funded by international intergovernmental organisations are also exempt from approval. You can find out more about internships in Germany for students from abroad from the International and Specialized Services (ZAV).

Where and How to apply?

Visa applications can only be lodged with the German Embassy in Wellington. Honorary Consuls do not handle any visa applications.

Appointments have to be booked via our online booking system. You have to submit your application in person in Wellington. Please note that you can not apply more than 3 months before your entry to Germany.

New Zealand citizens can travel visa free to Germany and can apply for the necessary permit after arrival at the local immigration office.

What do I need to fill out and provide

Please have your complete application ready for your appointment and do not include staples, post it notes, paperclips and folders of any kind. The photograph is not allowed to be stapled, glued or blue tacked to the form.

1. Please print out your completed Visa application form

2. required documentation according to the information sheet​​​​​​​

3. Please read the data protection regulation

and print out and sign the data protection signature sheet

4. Visa fee

What happens after your application
The Embassy reserves the right to request further documents or information deemed necessary for processing your application at any time and assumes no responsibility for applications submitted too close to your planned departure.
Applying for a visa does not guarantee that a visa will be issued! Once you have obtained your visa please check carefully that all entries are correct and in accordance with your application.
Upon your arrival the border authorities may examine whether the requirements for your entry continue to be valid. Entry may be refused by the border authorities although you are in possession of a valid visa. We advise you carry with you documents giving evidence to the purpose of your stay.

Helpful links:

Make it in Germany

A guide for your first weeks in Germany: Arrival App