A Long-Stay (National) Visa (Type D) allows non-EU citizens to stay in Germany for more than 90 days for work, study, research, family reunification, or other long-term purposes. This visa is typically the first step toward obtaining a residence permit, which is necessary for staying in Germany beyond the visa’s validity.
1.Work-Related Visas
A. Job Seeker Visa
Purpose: Allows professionals to stay in Germany for up to six months to search for a job.
Eligibility: Requires a recognized university degree or vocational qualification and proof of financial means (€11,208 in a blocked account).
Work Authorization: Not permitted until employment is secured and the visa is converted into a work visa.
B. Employment Visa
Purpose: For individuals with a job offer from a German employer.
Eligibility: Requires an employment contract, employer approval, and relevant qualifications.
Work Permission: Full-time employment is allowed upon approval.
Residence Permit: After arriving in Germany, applicants must apply for a work residence permit
C. EU Blue Card
Purpose: Designed for highly skilled professionals with high-paying job offers.
Eligibility: Requires a recognized university degree and a job offer with a minimum annual salary of €45,300 approximately (42,51,042.60 Indian Rupee) (shortage occupations) or €58,400 approximately( 54,90,067.20 Indian Rupee) (other professions) (as of 2024).
Work Authorization: Allows full-time employment in specialized fields.
Permanent Residency: Eligible after 33 months (or 21 months with B1-level German proficiency).
D. Self-Employment Visa
Purpose: For entrepreneurs or freelancers planning to start a business in Germany.
Eligibility:
Entrepreneurs: Must prove economic benefit to Germany and financial stability.
Freelancers: Must show client contracts and financial resources.
Work Permission: Allowed within the self-employment category.
2. Study & Research Visas
For students, researchers, and academic professionals pursuing education or research in Germany.
A. Student Visa
Purpose: For non-EU students admitted to a German university.
Eligibility: Requires university admission, proof of financial means (€11,208/year), health insurance, and accommodation.
Work Permission: Part-time work (120 full or 240 half days per year).
B. Student Applicant Visa
Purpose: For students traveling to Germany to apply for university admission in person.
Eligibility: Must show proof of applications and sufficient financial resources.
Work Authorization: Not permitted.
C. Language Course Visa
Purpose: For individuals attending an intensive German language course (minimum 18 hours per week).
Eligibility: Requires proof of enrollment, financial means, and accommodation.
Work Permission: Not allowed.
D. Researcher Visa
Purpose: For researchers who have been invited by a German research institution.
Eligibility: Requires a hosting agreement, proof of qualifications, and financial resources.
Work Authorization: Allowed for research-related activities.
3. Family & Other Long-Term Visas
For individuals joining family members in Germany or participating in cultural exchange programs.
A. Family Reunion Visa
Purpose: Allows spouses, children, or relatives to join family members living in Germany.
Eligibility: Requires proof of relationship, financial means, and accommodation.
Spouse Requirements:
If joining a German citizen, proof of basic German proficiency (A1 level) may be required.
If joining an EU Blue Card holder, no language proof is needed.
Work Permission: Allowed if the resident spouse has work rights.
B. Au Pair Visa
Purpose: For young adults (18-26 years old) to work as an au pair with a German host family while experiencing German culture.
Eligibility: Must have an au pair contract, basic German skills (A1 level), and health insurance.
Work Authorization: Limited to 30 hours per week.
C. Internship/Training Visa
Purpose: For individuals participating in approved internships or vocational training.
Eligibility: Requires an internship/training contract, financial proof, and accommodation.
Work Permission: Only for the specified internship or training program.
4. Application Process for a Long-Stay Visa
Step 1: Determine the Appropriate Visa Type
Select a visa category based on employment, study, research, or family reunification.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
✅ Completed visa application form
✅ Valid passport (valid for at least six months beyond the entry date)
✅ Biometric passport-sized photos
✅ Proof of financial means (blocked account, job contract, scholarship, or sponsorship)
✅ Health insurance coverage
✅ Proof of accommodation (rental contract or invitation from a host)
✅ Visa application fee (€75)
Step 3: Schedule a Visa Appointment
Book an appointment at the German Embassy/Consulate in your home country.
Processing times vary from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the visa type.
Step 4: Attend the Visa Interview
Be prepared to discuss your qualifications, purpose of stay, and financial situation.
Step 5: Enter Germany & Apply for a Residence Permit
Upon arrival, apply for a residence permit at the Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde) within 90 days.
5. Key Takeaways
✅ Visa Validity: Most long-stay visas are valid for 3 to 6 months and require a residence permit upon arrival.
✅ Work Authorization: Depends on the visa type; some allow work immediately, while others require additional permits.
✅ Financial Proof: Many visas require proof of €11,208/year in a blocked account or sponsorship.
✅ Language Requirements: Some visas, like the Family Reunion Visa and Au Pair Visa, require A1 German proficiency.
✅ Conversion Options: Many long-stay visas can be converted into residence permits for work, study, or family reasons.