Visa for research
There are many interesting research institutions in Germany. If you want to do research in Germany but do not yet live here or in another EU country, you will need a visa or a residence permit for the purpose of research in accordance with Section 18d of the Residence Act.
Please note:On July 7, 2023, a new law was passed regarding the immigration of skilled workers to Germany. It contains numerous changes and innovations as well as simplifications to make Germany more attractive for skilled workers. It is not yet clear exactly when the various changes and innovations will be introduced. When the time comes, we will publish updates on our website. We recommend that you visit our website regularly to stay well informed.
If you have any further questions, you can also contact our community platform "Together in Germany", our community managers will be happy to answer your questions!
What do I need to know?
Can I get a research visa?
You can get a research visa if you meet the following requirements:
- You have a hosting agreement with a research institution recognized by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF). The list of currently recognized research institutions can be found at bamf.de.
- The research project is actually being carried out.
- Your special knowledge or skills can be proven by certificates, etc.
- As a rule, the research institution must also give a written undertaking to ensure your livelihood and to cover any costs arising from a further "unauthorized" stay or deportation.
Where do I apply for a visa?
If you need a visa to enter Germany, you must first apply for a visa at the German embassy/consulate in your home country or a neighboring country and present the above-mentioned documents there.
Please note that it may take several months to process your visa application.
If you do not need a visa to enter Germany, please report to the immigration office at your new place of residence after entering the country and present the required documents there.
Whether you need a visa depends on your country of origin. At auswaertiges-amt.de you will find a list of countries whose citizens need a visa to enter Germany.
What documents do I need to apply for a visa?
In our chapter"National visa" you will find a list of all documents that all third-country nationals need for a national visa.
For a research visa, you also need the following documents:
- A hosting agreement with a research institution recognized by the BAMF. The list of currently recognized research institutions can be found at bamf.de.
- Confirmation from the research institution that the research project will actually be carried out
- Proof of your special knowledge and skills
- A declaration of commitment from the research institution to cover all costs
What happens after entry?
After entering Germany, you must report to the immigration office at your new place of residence within three months and apply for a residence permit there. To do this, you must submit the above-mentioned documents and, as a rule, a police registration and a tenancy agreement. The authorities will check your papers and then decide whether you will be granted a residence permit.
You will then be allowed to stay in Germany for at least one year and conduct research here. If the requirements are still met, the residence permit can be extended.
What happens when my contract with the research institution ends?
After your employment at the research institution ends, you can apply for a residence permit to look for work. For researchers, this residence permit is valid for 9 months. You can apply for the residence permit directly at the immigration office responsible for you.
Important
You can find more information on the topic of work in our chapters"Employment contract" and"Employee rights" as well as"Job search and application".
Source: handbookgermany.de
