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Saxony
One of the most important documents is your residence title. If you want to study or complete a doctorate in Saxony and come from a non-EU/EEA country, the purpose of your stay must be to study. But what exactly does this have to do with visa regulations? And what status will you have after completing your studies?
Of course, EU stands for “European Union”. But the abbreviation EEA is less well known. This stands for “European Economic Area”. In addition to the EU member states, this also includes Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. If you come from one of these countries, you do not need a residence title to study in Germany. Your passport or identity card is enough to allow you to stay in Germany for as long as you want.
If you have come to Germany from a country outside the European Economic Area without a visa, you will need to obtain what is known as a residence title within 90 days of your arrival. You can get this from the immigration authority in the city where you are studying. Then it’s time to wait. It can take up to 12 weeks before you receive your residence title. The visa-free countries include Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, and the USA.
Tip
You can also apply for your residence title before you come to Germany. Many Saxon universities also have advice centres for international students. They will help you fill out your applications.
Contact points
Side fact — Provisional residence document
You’ve just applied for a residence title at the immigration authority for the first time. While this is being processed, you will receive what is called a “Fiktionsbescheinigung”, a provisional residence document. It may take longer than the 90 days you are allowed to stay in Germany without a visa. But be warned: You will not be allowed to work in Germany with the provisional residence document. So if you already have a residence title, it is best to apply for an extension in good time. A provisional residence document is more of a second choice.
What about other countries?
If you come from a country other than those mentioned above, you will need a visa in addition to your residence title. In order to be able to undertake research or study in Germany, you must have a so-called D-Visa. You can apply for this at a German consular authority in your country. You will need the letter of invitation and the admission agreement from the university in Saxony at which you would like to study. Also remember to provide proof that you have health insurance in Germany.
If you are taking up a position as a visiting researcher in Saxony for a maximum of 12 months, you do not need a residence title. The D-Visa (national visa) will be sufficient in this case.
Good to know
Don’t waste any time. It can take 4 to 6 weeks to process your application. As soon as you have the invitation from your university in Saxony, contact your consulate immediately and apply for your visa.
After your studies
Don’t stress. Once you have completed your degree, you have 18 months to look for a job in your field. But beware of de-registration. If you are de-registered, you will immediately lose your residence title, as it is linked to studying being your purpose of residence. This may happen, for example, if you fail a crucial exam on your last attempt or if you do not re-register on time or in the correct form.