Residence permit for study preparation

A residence permit for the purpose of study preparation can be granted for maximum two years.

The purpose of study preparation includes:

  • Intensive German language course (a minimum of 18 lesson-hours per week),
  • study college,
  • preparatory courses


  • University entrance certificate
    This can either be a German Abitur certificate or an international maturity certificate.
  • Main residence in Berlin
  • A personal interview is required
    The interview should, if possible, take place by appointment.

Documents required

  • Valid passport
  • 1 current biometric photo
    verfügbar in den Sprachen Deutsch, Englisch, Französisch, Italienisch, Griechisch, Türkisch, Vietnamesisch, Spanisch, Portugiesisch, Russisch, Serbisch und Bosnisch
  • Proof of secure livelihood
    The following are accepted as proof:
    • blocked account (Sperrkonto) at a German Bank with 10,032.00 euros or
    • submission of a declaration of commitment by a third party on an official form or
    • scholarship or
  • Health insurance
  • Contract with a language school or approval for study college
    • Additionally with an intensive language course: Certification of the language school over a booked language course of at least 3 months
  • Proof of main residence in Berlin
    • Certificate of registration at the main residence or
    • lease and written confirmation of occupancy from the landlord
    More on the topic in the section "More information".


  • 100.00 euros
Turkish citizens:
  • From the age of 24 years: 37.00 euros
  • Until the age of 24 years: 22.80 euros

Average time to process request

Around 5–6 weeks

Responsible authorities


Landesamt für Einwanderung (LEA)