Indian students planning to study or participate in short-term academic programmes in Germany will no longer have to pay visa fees.
Indian students planning to study or engage in short-term academic programs in Germany will no longer have to pay visa fees, thanks to a landmark India-Germany agreement. The new provision for gratis visas—a type of visa issued free of charge—removes a longstanding financial hurdle, making international education more accessible to thousands of aspiring scholars.
A gratis visa is traditionally granted to specific categories of travellers, such as children under ten, certain SAARC nationals, diplomatic visitors, and United Nations Laissez-Passer holders. By extending this to Indian students, both countries aim to encourage academic mobility, cultural exchange, and research collaborations without the burden of visa fees.
New Study Abroad Rules 2025
Germany has steadily risen as a preferred destination for Indian students. According to the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), nearly 49,500 Indian students enrolled in German institutions during the 2023–24 winter semester, marking a 15.1% increase from the previous year. Over the past five years, this figure has more than doubled, with 80% of students pursuing master’s programs, predominantly in STEM fields.
Gratis Visa: What it means for students
Indian students planning short-term academic visits to Germany can now benefit from a gratis visa, a travel document issued free of charge.
For Indian students, this policy change represents a significant opportunity. It allows school and college students to participate in short-term academic programs, cultural exchanges, and research collaborations without worrying about visa costs. By removing this hurdle, the agreement encourages broader student mobility and fosters stronger educational and cultural ties between India and Germany.
Germany’s Growing Attraction for Students
Germany’s reputation as a top destination for international students is not without reason. With world-class institutions, a vibrant academic environment, and culturally rich cities, the country offers an educational experience that extends far beyond the classroom. Universities like TU Munich and Heidelberg University offer tuition-free or low-cost education to both local and international students. According to the Germany University Living European Student Landscape Report 2024, Germany has 3.43 million students, including 39,600 Indian and 422,188 other international students, reflecting its global appeal.
The country’s emphasis on research, experiential learning, and employability makes it a viable alternative to traditional educational centers. Visa regulations have been changed due to rising living costs: According to 2024 figures recommended by the German Foreign Ministry, from September 1, 2024, student applicants will be required to submit financial proof of a minimum annual income of €11,904, up from €11,208.
Visa and Regulatory Updates
Germany has modernized its visa system to make it more efficient for students. From February 17, 2025, all student visa applications must be submitted digitally through the consular service portal (digital-di.de), replacing the old submission method. Additionally, the financial proof requirement for student visas has increased from €11,208 to €11,904 per year from September 1, 2024, reflecting rising living costs.
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