Entering Germany and Visa

Depending on your nationality, a visa is required for entry into the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG). Therefore, please inform yourself at a German diplomatic or consular representation in your home country about the valid entry and residence regulations.

You apply for the visa at the responsible German mission in your home country.

The visa is issued depending on the reason for stay. Make sure that you apply for a study visa or an applicant visa. A tourist visa, a language course visa or an au-pair visa cannot be converted into a study visa. In these cases, you would have to leave Germany after the visa expires.

Tip: When applying for a "visa for study purposes", you must present, among other things, the admission letter from the University of Trier. But even if you have not yet received the admission letter from the University of Trier, you can already apply for an "applicant visa". This can be converted into a "residence permit for study purposes" by the responsible authority in Trier after your entry, if you have been admitted to study in the meantime. Expect a processing time of several weeks, possibly even several months, and apply for your visa early!

If you do not require a visa for your entry and are not an EU citizen, you must still apply for a residence permit after your arrival. Please make sure before your arrival that you can prove that you have the necessary financial means!
 

Helpful links
Do you need more detailed information regarding the most important legal framework conditions that allow legal residence in Germany? ► Entry & Residence