Language Visa for Germany

Language Visa for Germany – Visa for Language Learning

The visa for language learning under Section 16f (1) of the Residence Act (AufenthG) allows third-country nationals to enter and stay in Germany to attend an intensive German course. As a rule, the course must take place daily and comprise at least 18 teaching hours per week; evening and weekend courses are not sufficient. The visa or residence permit is issued for the duration of the language course, but for a maximum of 12 months. During this time, employment of up to 20 hours per week is permitted. For financing in 2026, you must prove at least €1,091 net per month, for example with a blocked account or a declaration of commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung). The responsible German embassy or consulate may request additional documents.

1. Requirements for the language visa

1.1 Intensive German course

• Admission or binding registration for an intensive German language course in Germany.
• As a rule, daily classes with at least 18 teaching hours per week.
• Evening courses, weekend courses and integration courses are not sufficient for this visa.
• The course confirmation should clearly state the start date, end date, course level, weekly hours, place of instruction, price and payment status.

1.2 Secured living expenses

• For 2026, the German government specifies at least €1,091 net per month for language learning under Section 16f (1) AufenthG.
• Over 12 months this amounts to €13,092. For a shorter stay, the amount is usually calculated pro rata.
• Typical proofs are a blocked account, a declaration of commitment or, in some cases, a scholarship or another viable proof of financing.
• Course fees, accommodation and health insurance may have to be proven separately if the embassy requires it.

1.3 Health insurance

• Valid health insurance is required for the visa to be issued.
• After arrival, a new or German health insurance may have to be taken out.
• The insurance should cover the entire period from arrival; the specific policy must meet the requirements of the responsible embassy.

1.4 Plausible purpose of stay

• The application must clearly show why the person wants to learn German in Germany and why DKH Institut in Hanover was chosen.
• If studies, vocational training or employment are planned after the language course, this should be stated truthfully in the visa procedure. In that case, a different type of visa may be more suitable.
• False or incomplete information can lead to rejection.

2. Document checklist

The following list is general. Depending on the country, the responsible embassy may require additional documents, translations, legalisations/apostilles, a different number of copies or special forms.

3. Application process worldwide

1. Check the visa type: Use the Federal Foreign Office’s Visa Navigator and find the responsible German embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
2. Choose a DKH course: Choose only a course that meets the requirements for an intensive language course, in particular at least 18 teaching hours per week.
3. Prepare documents: Download the embassy’s local checklist and prepare documents, translations, copies, proof of financing and insurance.
4. Submit the application: Depending on the country, via the Auslandsportal or directly at the foreign mission; if applicable, fill in the VIDEX form and book an appointment.
5. Attend the appointment: Appear in person, give fingerprints, hand in documents and pay the fee as specified by the embassy.
6. Wait for processing: Waiting and processing times vary greatly by location and individual case. Plan ahead.
7. Prepare for entry: Only make a binding travel booking once the visa has been issued. Arrange health insurance and accommodation from arrival.

4. After arrival

4.1 Registering your address

• After moving into a home, registration must generally be completed within two weeks.
• A landlord’s confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung) is important; a rental contract alone is not always sufficient.
• According to current information, the city’s online service cannot be used for moving from abroad. Newly arrived people should therefore plan an appointment at the Bürgeramt.

4.2 Residence permit

• If the national visa does not cover the entire stay or another residence title is required, the residence permit must be applied for in good time before the visa expires.
• For people living in the city, the immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) of the state capital is responsible; outside the city, the region may be responsible.
• Many matters are meant to be prepared digitally via online services/contact forms. An appointment usually follows afterwards, e.g. for fingerprints and digital signature.

4.3 During your stay

• Attend the course regularly and keep your certificates.
• Keep your health insurance, address and passport details up to date.
• Follow the work conditions exactly. Up to 20 hours per week are permitted if your residence title states this.
• If you change your course, address or purpose of stay, contact the immigration office or the embassy/authority beforehand.