Changing Universities in Germany: What Happens to Your Student Visa?
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Changing universities in Germany can be a smart move — switching to a better-suited degree programme, relocating to a new city, or simply finding a course you enjoy more. But if you're an international student, one question often causes concern: What happens to your student visa if you change universities in Germany?
This guide will help you understand how to handle your student visa transfer in Germany, what authorities to notify, and how to make sure you stay compliant with all German student visa requirements.
Can You Change Universities on a Student Visa in Germany?
Yes, you can. As an international student, you are allowed to change your university as long as you remain enrolled in a recognized German university and continue pursuing your academic goals.
However, there are rules to follow to avoid issues with your student residence permit in Germany. The key is to maintain continuity in your studies and make sure the change doesn’t alter the core purpose of your visa, which is to study in Germany.
Please note: If the change involves switching from a language course to a university degree, or from a Bachelor to an unrelated Master’s program, you may need to go through additional visa processes.
Who Do You Need to Inform?
When you change universities, it's essential to inform several institutions to avoid complications with your visa status in Germany:
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Foreigner’s Office (Ausländerbehörde) in your city
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Your old and new university (for deregistration and enrollment)
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Your health insurance provider
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Your bank, if you're using a Blocked Account in Germany
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Your city hall (for updating your Anmeldung, if you move)
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Step-by-Step: How to Update Your Visa After Changing Universities
1. Get Admission to the New University
Secure your spot in the new degree programme and make sure the university is accredited.
2. Deregister from Your Current University
Start the deregistration (Exmatrikulation) process. This is required for your new enrollment and visa update.
3. Enroll at the New University
Complete your Immatrikulation and get a confirmation of enrollment. This will be one of the key visa application documents.
4. Notify the Foreigner’s Office (Ausländerbehörde)
Book an appointment and submit your updated documents. These usually include:
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New admission letter
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Proof of enrollment
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Updated Blocked Account confirmation
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Proof of valid health insurance
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Valid passport and residence permit
5. Apply for Visa Extension or Status Update (if needed)
If the program switch significantly alters your academic path, you may need to apply for a visa renewal in Germany. Be transparent about your plans and show that you intend to continue studying full time.
Processing time varies depending on the city and season. Plan ahead and apply early, especially before the summer or winter semester begins.
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Does Changing Courses Affect Your Visa?
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If you’re changing courses within the same level (e.g., Bachelor's to another Bachelor's), your study visa in Germany likely remains valid.
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Suppose you're moving from a language course to a university program or making a major subject change. In that case, the Foreigner’s Office in Germany may request a full review of your visa status.
Always check with the authorities before assuming you can proceed without notifying them.
Will You Have to Leave Germany?
Usually, no — as long as:
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You’re enrolled in a university
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You’ve updated the authorities
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Your visa is still valid, or you’ve submitted your application for renewal in time
Important: If there’s a long gap between deregistration and re-enrollment (more than 90 days), your student residence permit in Germany could be at risk. Try to avoid extended gaps in your study timeline.
What Happens If You're Moving to a New City?
If your university transfer in Germany includes a move, you must:
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Update your Anmeldung (city registration)
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Inform your health insurer, bank, and local Ausländerbehörde
Helpful Tips to Stay Compliant
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Contact the Foreigner’s Office in Germany (Ausländerbehörde) early
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Keep copies of all required documents
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Use a checklist to track your updates
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Don’t delay once you decide to change your university
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Make sure your Blocked Account and health insurance are always valid
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Before You Arrive or Move to Germany
If you're planning to move to Germany soon or are in the process of switching universities after arriving in Germany, it's important to familiarize yourself with visa rules and timelines.
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Start your preparation early and submit your application as soon as you receive your new admission letter.
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If you're coming from your home country, check visa transfer eligibility with the Federal Foreign Office or the nearest German embassy.
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Always ensure your blocked account in Germany is up to date and reflects the financial requirements for your stay.
Changing universities doesn’t cancel your visa, but you must follow the right steps to stay in Germany legally. The key is to remain enrolled in a recognized university and keep all relevant authorities informed.
This guide is part of our series on how to handle major changes while living in Germany as an international student. For more, read:
Changing Universities in Germany: What Happens to Your Student Visa?
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