Visa Application Guide to Study in Germany for Malaysian Students
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Updated on: Jan 2025
Key Takeaways
- Visa Application Essentials: Malaysian students must ensure their student visa application to Germany is accurate, complete, and includes all required documents like financial proof, academic qualifications, university acceptance letter, and language proficiency certificates.
- Handling Delays and Rejections: If a visa application is delayed or rejected, students can appeal or reapply after addressing any missing documents or mistakes.
- Post-Visa Preparation: After receiving the visa, students should book flights, secure accommodation, and arrange mandatory health insurance in Germany.
- Working While Studying: Malaysian students on a German student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and more during breaks. Jobs are subject to specific regulations, including limits on earnings and job types.
- Income Potential: Students can earn between €13 and €18 per hour, with potential monthly earnings around €1,040 before taxes, depending on the job. However, remember that your primary responsibility is to focus on your studies and it’s recommended to not work the maximum 20 hours each week.
Germany is one of the top destinations for students from all over the world, and Malaysia is no exception. Known for its excellent education system, affordable tuition fees, and high standard of living, it’s no surprise that many Malaysian students dream of studying in Germany. But before you can pack your bags and book a flight, you need to navigate the visa application process. Don’t worry, we’re here to guide you through the steps!
Why Study in Germany?
Before diving into the visa details, let’s quickly highlight why Germany is a popular choice for Malaysian students:
- High-quality Education: Germany is home to some of the world’s best universities, offering a wide range of courses, many of which are in English.
- Affordable Education: Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees or charge very minimal fees, even for international students.
- Job Opportunities: Germany has a strong economy, and students can work part-time during their studies and even after graduation, giving them a chance to gain valuable work experience.
Step 1: Know the Type of Visa You Need
As you can see above, there are many types of visa to Germany.
As a Malaysian student planning to study in Germany, you’ll most likely need one of the following visa types:
- Student Visa: This is the most common visa for students planning to pursue a full-time degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, etc.) in Germany.
- Language Course Visa: If you plan to attend a language course, you’ll need this visa.
- Preparatory Language Course for Further Studies Visa: If you join one of our university preparation courses, this is likely the visa we will apply for you.
For this article, we’ll focus on the Student Visa.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Before you apply for your visa, it’s important to gather all the necessary documents. These are the key documents you’ll need:
- Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Germany.
- Admission Letter: You’ll need a confirmation letter from a German university, proving that you’ve been accepted into a degree program.
- Means of Subsistence: Germany requires students to show that they can support themselves financially during their stay. Our students open a Blocked Account to show their financial proof.
- Proof of Academic Qualifications: You’ll need to provide your academic transcripts and certificates (e.g., STPM, A Level, etc.) that meet the entry requirements of your chosen program.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany. You’ll need to provide proof of health insurance.
- Visa Application Form: You must fill out the visa application form available on the German Embassy website.
- Passport-sized Photos: You will need a couple of recent passport-sized photos that meet the embassy’s requirements.
Visit the German Embassy Kuala Lumpur’s website for the complete list of documents.
Step 3: Begin Your Application
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment at VFS Global
After completing your application, schedule an appointment at the VFS Global Application Centre.
It’s important to plan ahead because visa processing can take several weeks, so make sure you apply well in advance (at least 3 months before your course begins).
Step 5: Submit Your Application
On the day of your appointment, bring all your documents, including the visa application form, passport, admission letter, financial proof, insurance details, and any other required paperwork. VFS Global will also take your biometric data (fingerprints and photos) as part of the process.
Step 6: Pay the Visa Fee
The visa fee for a student visa is €90 (roughly RM 420) and is payable at the counter.
Step 7: Wait for Processing
Step 8: Visa Approval and Collection
Once your visa is approved, you’ll be notified, and you’ll be able to collect your visa. At this point, you’ll have the green light to travel to Germany and start your studies!
Step 9: Enter Germany
When you arrive in Germany, make sure to have all your important documents handy, including:
- Your passport with the student visa
- Admission letter from the university
- Proof of financial support
- Proof of health insurance
You’ll need to register with the local authorities (called Anmeldung) within the first two weeks of your arrival in Germany. This is a straightforward process and can usually be done at the local town hall (Bürgeramt).
Sounds like a lot of work? If you join our University Preparation Programme, we’ll assist you with the visa application.
Tips for a Successful German Student Visa Application
With proper preparation and attention to detail, you can increase your chances of a smooth and successful application. Here are some essential tips that can help Malaysian students navigate the visa application process efficiently.
How to Ensure Your Visa Application Is Complete and Accurate?
One of the most critical steps in the application process is ensuring that your application is complete and accurate. Missing or incorrect information can lead to delays or even rejection. To avoid this:
- Double-check all documents: Ensure you have gathered all the necessary documents required by the German embassy or consulate. This includes proof of financial resources, passport-sized photographs, your academic qualifications, and your language proficiency certificate.
- Use the official checklist: Most embassies provide a detailed checklist of required documents. Use this checklist to cross-check everything you need to submit. Don’t leave out anything important.
- Fill out the forms accurately: If you’re filling out a visa application form, make sure you complete every section accurately. If you’re unsure about any part, seek clarification or ask for assistance before submitting.
- Translations: If your documents are in Malay or another language, they may need to be officially translated into German or English. Be sure to provide accurate translations of all necessary documents to avoid any complications.
How to Handle Visa Delays and Rejections?
Even with careful preparation, sometimes visa applications face delays or rejections. Here’s what you can do if you find yourself in this situation:
- Check for missing documents: If your application is delayed, one common cause is missing documentation. Check with the embassy to ensure you’ve submitted everything required. In some cases, you may be asked to provide additional paperwork.
- Appeal a rejection: If your visa application is rejected, you generally have the right to appeal the decision. Contact the embassy to find out the specific reasons for the rejection and the steps you can take to rectify the situation.
- Submit a reapplication: If your visa is rejected due to incomplete documents or errors in your application, you can reapply after rectifying the mistakes. Make sure you address all the issues raised during the first application to increase your chances of success.
- Plan for delays: It’s always a good idea to apply for your student visa well in advance of your intended travel date. This allows you to account for any unexpected delays and ensures you won’t miss your course start date.
By following these tips, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful German student visa application. Make sure to stay organised, pay attention to detail, and don’t hesitate to seek advice from us if you’re unsure about any part of the process. This proactive approach will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure that your journey to studying in Germany begins smoothly.
What to Do After Receiving Your German Student Visa?
Receiving your German student visa is a significant milestone, but it’s just the beginning of your journey to studying in Germany. There are several important steps you must take after receiving your visa to ensure a smooth transition and a successful academic experience. Here’s what you should do next:
Final Checklist for Your Journey to Germany
This checklist will help ensure you don’t miss anything crucial before your departure:
- Book Your Flights: Once your visa is confirmed, start looking for flight options. Book your flight well in advance to secure the best fares. It’s recommended to arrive in Germany at least a few days before your course starts to allow yourself time to adjust.
- Accommodation: If you haven’t already arranged accommodation, now is the time to finalise your housing plans. Many universities provide dormitories for international students, or you can look for shared apartments. Student housing is limited, so be sure to secure a place to stay before you arrive.
- Health Insurance: In Germany, health insurance is mandatory for all students. Make sure you’ve arranged for both travel and health insurance before leaving.
- Pack Wisely: Pack only what you truly need. Remember that Germany has a wide range of shopping options, so you don’t need to bring everything with you. Make sure to pack your essential documents, including your visa, passport, acceptance letter, and financial proof.
- Financial Preparation: Right after you arrive in Germany, you should make an appointment to open a bank account. This account will receive the money from your blocked account.
Important Travel and Health Insurance Tips for Malaysian Students
Before travelling to Germany, there are specific insurance requirements you need to be aware of, along with other travel tips that will ensure your safety and security during your journey.
- Travel Insurance: In addition to health insurance, it’s wise to have travel insurance that covers emergencies such as lost luggage, flight cancellations, or any unforeseen issues that may arise during your journey.
- German Health Insurance: You must have health insurance while studying in Germany. And thus, will need to take out a German health insurance plan.
- Insurance Requirements for Students: Ensure that your insurance meets the minimum standards set by German authorities. Your insurance provider should give you a certificate of coverage, which may be required during your registration at the university or upon arrival.
- Emergency Contacts: Once in Germany, keep a list of emergency contacts, including the local embassy or consulate, your university’s student services, and the contact details of your healthcare provider. It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with local emergency numbers (e.g., 112 for emergencies in the EU).
By following this checklist and ensuring you have the right insurance coverage, you will be ready to focus on your academic journey and enjoy your time abroad.
Can I Work in Germany During My Studies on a Student Visa?
Yes, international students, including those from Malaysia, are allowed to work while studying in Germany under specific regulations.
Work Rights for Malaysian Students on a German Student Visa
Malaysian students have the same work rights as other non-EU international students in Germany:
- 140 full days or 280 half days per year of permitted work
- No additional work permit is required within these limits
- Up to 20 hours per week during the semester is allowed; full-time is permitted during semester breaks
- Internships count toward the work limit unless they are mandatory for your course
- University assistant jobs (HiWi jobs) may not count toward the limit, depending on the role
- Working beyond the allowed hours requires special approval from German immigration authorities
- Students who earn above a certain amount will be required to contribute to taxes.
- Students must remain enrolled and prioritise their studies to keep their visa valid
How Much Can Malaysian Students Earn While Studying in Germany?
As of 2025, the minimum wage in Germany is €12.82 per hour, and many student jobs offer pay between €13 and €18 per hour, depending on the role and location.
Common student jobs include:
- Hospitality and service (cafes, restaurants, shops)
- Tutoring and private lessons
- University assistant roles
- Internships and part-time roles in your field of study
If you work a maximum of 20 hours per week at €13/hour, you could earn approximately €1,040 per month before taxes.
Students earning up to €520 per month in “mini-jobs” are generally exempt from income tax, though pension contributions may still apply. If you exceed this amount, you may need to pay taxes and social security contributions, depending on your employment type.
Conclusion
Applying for a student visa to Germany can seem overwhelming, but with proper preparation and the right information, it’s a manageable process. Remember, Germany offers an incredible opportunity for higher education, and the effort you put into securing your visa will be well worth it. So, start early, stay organized, and before you know it, you’ll be all set to begin your academic journey in one of the world’s top educational hubs.
Good luck, and enjoy the adventure of studying in Germany!