Germany is one of the most innovative countries worldwide. Their automotive sector is very impressive, and along with the mechanical and chemical sectors, it attracts many researchers and scientists into the country. Before arriving in Germany, applicants need to double-check if they need a Research and Guest Scientist Visa. Next section will discuss who requires one and what are the overall requirements.
Who Requires a Germany Researcher and Guest Scientist Visa?
A visa is granted, depending on the applicant’s nationality. For instance, the ones that do not need to apply for this particular visa are citizens of:
- European nation, European Economic Area, European Free Trade Area
- or citizens of Australia, Japan, Israel, Canada, South Korea, New Zealand or the US
Citizens from countries that are not mentioned above will require a visa. But first, they need to make sure they have the requirements the German government demands.
Requirements for Guest Scientist and Research Visa
As for any other specific type of visa, a guest scientist and research visa has its own different requirements. One of the requirements is to have an agreement drawn up and signed between the researcher (visa applicant) and a German research institute. This needs to be signed to confirm researchers approval for carrying out research. Another need is an invitation letter from the German university or other research institutes that approves the travel and confirms sponsorship. Evidence of original academic qualifications are also essential so it confirms applicants abilities – this could be Degree Certificate or academic transcripts.
Lastly, a no-objection letter from a university or research institute a person is travelling from, stating that the person must return after research finishes, to continue with contractual obligations at home country.
Other general requirements include:
- valid passport
- filled out a visa application form
- two visa photos
- a document confirming accommodation in Germany
- a letter highlighting the purpose of their stay, including exit date and other essential details
- evidence of purchased health insurance
All documents must be provided in original form and with two photocopies. Additionally, it is sometimes demanded that the applicant also attach their proof of no criminal record. This type of document can be applied for at local authorities in the home country.
Researcher and Guest Scientist German Visa Photo
As mentioned above, one of the requirements is two visa photos. But before taking a visa photo, here is everything you need to know.
The format of a German visa photo must follow specific measurements: it must measure 35x45mm in size, and a minimum of 600×600 pixels in digital format (maximum of 1200×1200). The photo should be in colour, have a white background, and be printed on high-quality paper. In regards to recency, a photo must not be older than six months – as it must reflect the applicant’s current appearance.
Concerning candidates’ posture, they need to stand straight and look straight into the camera lens. Their facial expression must be neutral as no smiling or frowning is permitted. Eyes should be open, whilst mouth closed. Candidates are advised to wear their casual day to day clothes, like uniforms, white shirts, headwear and glasses are forbidden unless exceptions apply. Any drastic changes to appearance have to result in a new visa photo.
Application for Researches and Guest Scientist German Visa
There are six precise steps that each candidate must follow to apply for a German visa.
- Complete a visa application form. In this case, a German long-stay Researcher visa can be completed online. Once the application is filled in, it must be printed out and signed at the end.
- Gather supporting documents – following specific requirements mentioned above.
- Once all documents are gathered, two photocopies of original documents are required to be made
- Next, an appointment must be made where the interview will be held. Appointment can be made online at the German embassy or consulate website.
- Attend the interview and present all supporting documents
- Finally, sign the application next to a witness and pay a visa fee. A receipt will be issued which must be kept for collection of processed application purposes.
The submission process takes roughly 10 minutes to complete.
Visa Extension Procedure
In many cases, researchers require a visa extension due to unfinished work. The extension can be done by making an appointment with the foreigners’ registration office (at the German city the applicant is currently at). This appointment must be made at least two months before the current visa expires. When attending the interview, specific documents must be brought to prove that extension of stay is legit. These documents could be a cover letter stating why the extension is needed, or a letter from the research institution highlighting that stay is crucial for the research. The extension fee is roughly 80 euro.
Bringing Family Members on German Research Visa
It is possible to bring family members (spouse or children only) on this type of visa. However, few conditions need to be met. Firstly, children must be under age and not married to be eligible to come under a German Research Visa. Visa holders must be able to confirm that there is enough living space for the family members and enough finance to support their stay. Family members must have a basic knowledge of the German language – this can be confirmed by language certificates etc. The spouse is also eligible to work during her/his stay if it’s approved by the Federal Employment Agency.
Arriving in Germany – Final Steps
Once a candidate arrives in Germany, there are the last three steps that need to be completed. Firstly candidates must register their German address at a local Registration Office and provide documents that confirm that – bills, rental agreement. Then, an appointment needs to be made for a researcher residence permit with German immigration authorities, so stay in Germany is completely legal. Lastly, attend the interview for a researcher residence permit.
