11 German words you need for visa application in Germany

Preparing for a visa journey to Germany? Familiarize yourself with these 11 indispensable German phrases that will make your application process smoother and more fruitful.

1. Das Antragsformular: Apply for a visa by completing this essential form, filling it with your personal details and visit agenda. (The application form)
2. Der Reisepass: Your primary identity and personal information verifier, which will be assessed to examine your travel history and visa applications. (Passport)
3. Das Passfoto: Attach two identical photos (3 months old max) to your application, adhering to the specified size and format criteria. (Photos)
4. Die Aufenthaltsgenehmigung / Aufenthaltserlaubnis: This official German residence permit titled "residence permit" is essential for individuals intending to live in Germany after a visa's validity period. (Residence Permit)
5. Die Visumgebühr: Pay the required visa fee dependent on type (short-term: 40€ children, 80€ adults; long-term: 75-200€) to process your application. (Visa fee)
6. Der Einladungsschreiben: The invitation letter, issued by a German host, provides vital info such as visit reason, duration, and obligations towards accommodations and financial support. (Invitation Letter)
7. Der Nachweis über ausreichende Mittel/über Unterkunft: To exhibit the ability to cover expenses (housing, transportation, and living essentials) during your German trip, submit bank statements, income certificates, and sponsorship letters. (Proof of Finances)
8. Die Krankenversicherung: Health insurance, which should fully cover medical care for your entire stay, is required. (Health Insurance)
9. Die Botschaft/das Konsulat: Visit a German embassy or consulate for advice regarding visa applications and other related consular matters. (Embassy/Consulate)
10. Das Arbeitsvisum/das Studentenvisum: Common types of visas include work permits, based upon job offers, and student visas, which require documents from touring institutions. (Work/Student Visa)
11. Die Familienzusammenführung: Family members of a foreign resident in Germany join through a special process, which entails submitting necessary documents and proof of relationship. (Family Reunification)

Learn these terms to navigate the visa application process with confidence. From understanding the Krankenversicherung to mastering the Familienzusammenführung, knowledge of these German phrases will considerably facilitate your visa application process in Germany.

Related Concepts: For a successful visit, be mindful of necessary biometric photos (Das Passfoto) and ensure you obtain a residence permit (Die Aufenthaltsgenehmigung/Do Aufenthaltserlaubnis) before your stay.

Enrichment Data: To apply for a study or work visa outside of Germany, you will require the following documents and meet specific requirements:

General Requirements for Both Study and Work Visas:

1. Valid Passport with a minimum expiration of two years and sufficient blank pages.
2. Filled-out visa application forms.
3. Biometric-compliant photos, not older than three months.
4. €75 visa processing fee.

Specific Requirements for Study Visas:

1. Proof of financial resources, including bank statements and an income certificate or sponsorship letter, with a minimum annual requirement of €11,904.
2. Acceptance letter from a German university or higher education institution.
3. Previous academic qualifications, such as school-leaving certificates or diplomas.
4. Health insurance valid for the first three months of stay.
5. Minimum B2 level language proficiency in German or English.

Specific Requirements for Work Visas:

1. Job Offer Letter specifying your job title, salary, and employment conditions.
2. Documented professional qualifications, recognized by the issuing country.
3. Proof of work experience within the last five years.
4. Declaration of Employment form filled out by your employer.
5. Pre-BA approval, if eligible, demonstrating comparable conditions to German workers and absence of suitable local candidates.

Additional Documents:

• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation, letter from host).
• Bank statements showing the minimum required monthly amount (€1,091 as of 2025).
• Motivation letter expressing your plans and ambitions in Germany.
• Your CV cataloguing diplomas, qualifications, and previous experiences.

Application Process:

1. Complete the application form, attaching biometric photos and signing it.
2. Schedule an appointment at a German embassy or consulate.
3. Gather all required documents.
4. Submit your application, process the visa fee, and address inquiries regarding your move to Germany.

Persevere through this application process, furnish necessary documents, and attendant requirements for a successful visa application to study or work in Germany.