Learn German in Hamburg – with a language visa
Do you dream of learning German in Germany – right in the heart of a vibrant city like Hamburg?
With a language visa, you can!
At Colón, we treat people with respect, curiosity and a genuine enthusiasm for supporting them on their journey. We know that spending time abroad requires a great deal of courage and planning. That is why we want to help you set off well prepared and feeling confident.
What is a language course visa – and when do I need one?
If you are staying in Germany for longer than 90 days and would like to attend an intensive language course, you will usually need a language course visa.
This applies to courses with at least 18 teaching hours per week – for example, our 5×5 or 5×4 intensive courses.
Where and how do I apply for my language visa?
You must submit the application in person at the German Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Please allow plenty of time – the processing time can be up to four months.
We recommend that you get in touch at an early stage and prepare your documents as thoroughly as possible. We’ll be happy to help you with this!
Checklist: You will need the following documents for your application
To ensure you are well prepared, here is our tried-and-tested checklist for applying for a language visa:
- A completed and signed application form for a residence permit (language visa)
- Valid passport
- Biometric passport photo (recent)
- Confirmation of enrolment from Colón for an intensive course (min. 18 hours per week)
- Proof of payment of the deposit for the course fee
- Health insurance (valid for the entire duration of the course)
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses, e.g. via a blocked account
- Optional: a declaration of financial support from a third party or documents from parents (including proof of income)
- Proof of accommodation or residence in Hamburg (e.g. through accommodation arranged by Colón)
- Letter of motivation explaining why you wish to attend the course
- Proof of payment of the visa fee
Requirements may vary from country to country. Please check the website of the Federal Foreign Office or the German Embassy for further information.
What sort of health insurance do I need for my visa?
You will need travel health insurance that complies with EU directives and covers services such as doctor’s appointments, hospital costs and, if necessary, repatriation to your home country.
Our recommendation: HANSE MERKUR Insurance, based in Hamburg – reliable, experienced and compliant with visa requirements.
What is a blocked account – and why do I need one?
The blocked account serves as financial proof that you are able to fund your stay in Germany yourself. You can open one at a bank of your choice.
The current guideline figure is approximately €10,500 for a one-year stay. You can then withdraw a fixed amount each month (approximately €934).
How much does a language visa for Germany cost?
- For stays of up to 1 year: approx. €100
Please bring proof of payment of the visa fee with you to your appointment.
Can I extend my visa?
The language course visa is usually issued initially for 3 months.
Under certain conditions, it is possible to apply to the relevant immigration authority for an extension to a maximum of 12 months.
This means that switching to a student visa or taking up employment is not permitted.
What am I not allowed to do with a language visa?
Please note that a language visa is not linked to any other purposes of stay. Specifically, this means:
- You must not commence a degree course or submit an application to study.
- You cannot switch to another type of residence permit (e.g. a student visa).
- You are not permitted to work.
We’ll be with you every step of the way
Here at Colón, we have decades of experience working with language course participants from all over the world.
We can help you with:
- a reliable confirmation of enrolment,
- advice on visas, accommodation and course selection,
- and friendly, dedicated communication – on an equal footing.
Any questions? We’d be happy to help.
If you are unsure or need help with your preparations, please email us at:
info@colon.de
We look forward to welcoming you here in Hamburg very soon!
This information is provided without guarantee and is based on our many years of experience. You can obtain legally binding information from the German Embassy or the relevant consulate in your place of residence. Colón cannot be held liable should you NOT be granted a visa to enter Germany. Please note our Terms and Conditions!
