Visas

Whether you need a visa to enter Germany can be checked in the list of countries with visa requirements provided by the German Foreign Office.

Please be sure to apply for your visa in good time through the Foreign Office's visa application portal, as the processing time can take several months. The University of Hamburg therefore recommends that you apply for a visa for studies and visa for searching for a place to study immediately after the application deadline with your proof of application. Only in this way can you enhance the chances that you can enter Germany in time for the start of your studies if you are accepted.

Further information about the student visa can also be found in the FAQs of the Foreign Office.

Important note: Please be aware that a 3-month Schengen visa ("tourist visa") cannot be extended for a study or research stay in Germany. 

Delayed Entry

If the processing of your visa takes longer and you can only enter after the start of lectures (early October or early April), please do the following:

- Contact the relevant academic office and inform them about your delayed entry.
- The academic office will then inform the Campus Center about your delayed enrollment.

Residence Permit

After arrival and the start of your studies, you will then need to apply for a residence permit. All information regarding this can be found under Residence Permit City of Hamburg.

Information on other residence titles after completing your studies and consultation hours for this can be found under Residence Permit.