Welcome
RESIDENCE PERMIT – for students attending a German language course
If you would like to attend a language course in Germany for more than 3 months you require a residence permit. The language course must be an intensive course with a minimum of 18 hours a week. The maximum allowable time for a language course is one year.
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 appointment system. You have to submit your application in person in Wellington .
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
Please note the following important advice for your evidence of proof of sufficient funds for language course in Germany:
Applicants have to show proof of sufficient funds for the entire duration of their studies or courses (no less than 1027€). If you do not hold a German scholarship for your studies you must open a blocked bank account with a bank in Germany.
Providers of blocked bank accounts can be found through the Internet. The German term for this is 'Sperrkonto'.
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:
A guide for your first weeks in Germany: Arrival App