Introduction
The German government has launched the new Consular Services Portal on February 17, 2025, making the visa application process more efficient for students seeking to study in Germany. This blog provides a detailed guide on how students can apply for a student visa via this new portal, ensuring a seamless and structured application process.
What is the Consular Services Portal?
The Consular Services Portal is an online platform designed to streamline the visa application process, reducing paperwork and processing times. Students can now complete their applications, upload documents, and schedule appointments online without visiting the German consulate multiple times.
Who Needs a Student Visa?
Most international students require a visa to enter Germany. Some applicants may be exempt based on their nationality—check the Federal Foreign Office website for details.
Types of Student Visa
- Visa for Study Purposes: Valid for up to one year for students already admitted to a German university.
- Visa to Seek a University Place: Allows students up to nine months to travel to Germany, find a university place, and apply for a degree program.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying via the Consular Services Portal
- Register on the Portal
- Visit the Consular Services Portal.
- Create an account using your email ID and personal details.
- Verify your account via the confirmation email.
- Complete Your Visa Application (VIDEX). Once registered, fill out the online visa application form (VIDEX) with the following details:
- Personal Information
- Contact Details
- Identification Papers (Passport details)
- Travel Data and Purpose (Reason for travel, intended university, or preparatory courses)
- Reference Information (University or sponsor details)
- Financial Means and Stay Details (Proof of sufficient funds)
- Upload Required Documents. After completing the application, upload scanned copies of the following documents
- Valid Passport
- APS Certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of Admission (University acceptance letter)
- Statement of Intent to Study
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Language Certificate (if required)
- Proof of Secure Livelihood (Blocked account, sponsorship, or scholarship confirmation)
- Service Provider’s Receipt
- Health Insurance Proof
- Additional Supporting Documents (Marksheets, Declaration of Sponsors & Funds, Legal Representation Form, etc.)
- Select a Service Provider and Pay the Processing Fee
- Applicants must select their designated Visa Application Center (VAC) (e.g., Mumbai, Delhi) and pay the preliminary review service fee of Rs 898.
- Application Submission and Review
- Submit the completed application through the Consular Services Portal.
- The service provider will review the application for completeness, usually within one week.
- If corrections are required, applicants will be notified to make the necessary changes.
- Book an Appointment for Biometrics and Document Submission
- Log in to the portal and schedule an appointment for biometrics and document verification.
- Visit the designated VAC on the scheduled date.
- Submit biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) and the original documents.
- Await Visa Decision
- The German consulate will process the visa application.
- Processing time varies but usually takes 4-8 weeks.
- Applicants will be notified via email about the status of their visa.
Financial Requirements for Visa Approval
Students must prove they can financially support themselves
- Study Visa: At least EUR 992 per month (as of 2025)
- University Place-Seeking Visa: At least EUR 1,091 per month (as of 2025)
Accepted proofs include a blocked account, a Declaration of Commitment, or a scholarship. If tuition fees apply, additional proof of financial resources is required.
Work Regulations for Students in Germany
- Students can work up to 140 days per year.
- Part-time student jobs are not included in this limit.
- Self-employment is not allowed.
Conclusion
With the launch of the new Consular Services Portal, the visa application process has become more structured and convenient for international students. By following these steps and ensuring all documents are in order, students can successfully secure their Germany Student Visa with minimal hassle.
For the latest updates and personalized guidance, reach out to Feaoverseas for expert assistance in your study abroad journey! This information has been sourced from Digital Diplo Germany and my personal experience in guiding students through the visa application process.