How to get a Residence Permit For International Students once you arrive in Germany

18 October 2025

Germany attracts thousands of international students every year as they are eager to explore its first-world education system, cosmopolitan cities, and high employability rates. However, when you arrive in Germany as a student, one of the most significant things to do is to apply for your residence permit. This document formally entitles you to remain within the country during the period of studies.

BCES Admissions Abroad not only assists the students with admission and guidance on visa but also with post-arrival formalities such as application for residence permit to help you settle down on the new academic journey.

Understanding the German Residence Permit

The German residence permit is issued by the Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde) and is the legal right to remain and study in Germany after the stay period covered by the entry visa. For most non-EU/EEA students, the permit is issued for either one to two years and is also eligible to be renewed according to the duration of the study program. Submitting an application for the permit on time keeps the stay legal and trouble-free.

Procedure to Follow to Apply for German Residence Permit Step by Step

1. Register Your Address (Anmeldung)

Within 14 days of finding accommodation, you must register your address at your local Residents’ Registration Office (Bürgeramt). You’ll receive a registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung), which is an essential document for your residence permit application.

2. Account Opening at German Bank

You will need to have a German banking account to cover daily expenses and to prove financial security. International students often create a blocked account (Sperrkonto) to prove to the university that they can cover the costs of the stay.

3. Ensure Health Insurance

Compulsory health insurance is required by all German students. You can either opt for public student health insurance or private student health insurance. You will not be accepted if you do not produce valid insurance.

4. Set an Appointment in the Foreigners’ Office

Make an appointment early on at the Ausländerbehörde either online or in person. Large cities like Frankfurt or Berlin usually consist of long queues and therefore it is advisable to make plans way prior.

5. Submit the Mandatory Documents

Prior to visiting the Foreigners’ Office, ensure that the following documents are available:

• Valid passport and visa
• Biometric photographs
• University enrollment certificate (Immatrikulations
• Documentation regarding financial resources (bank statements or blocked account certificate)
• Health insurance certificate
• Rental contract or occupancy receipt
• Completed application form

6. Submit Your Application

Upon appointment, documents and fingerprints will be required from you and you will be asked to sign the application documents. Officers might also ask simple questions about study plans or the university. Upon approval, the residence permit card will be mailed to you or be collected from the office.

7. Renew Before Expiration

The residence permit is time limited, usually to the length of the study programme. Make sure to submit an application to renew it at least three months before its expiry to avoid any legal complications.

How to Make an Application Smoothly

• Apply early to save time waiting.
• Keep multiple copies of everything on hand (hard copy and computer version).
• Come on time to your appointment.
• Keep yourself as a student by keeping full-time enrollment.
• For advice on the procedure if you encounter any problems contact your university’s International Office.

BCES Admissions Abroad provides the entire assistance to students who want to study in Germany—right from university admissions to guidance on the visa and residence permit. Our counselors are properly trained and always possess the latest immigration regulations so that you get the right information and step-by-step guidance along the way.

Studying abroad doesn’t have to be stressful but thrilling—so we make special efforts to ensure that you receive everything to begin life in Germany with confidence.