Welcome
Academics and Research
Praktikum Visa © GKSP/Canva.com
General Information
Why is there a distinction between visiting academics and researchers?
In German immigration context a researcher is an academic with a specific hosting agreement called an “Aufnahmevereinbarung” as defined by the EU REST Directive 2016/801. All other applicants are classed as “visiting academics”.
Submitting an application
Necessary documents
Please bring the following documents in the mentioned order to your appointment at the Embassy. Additional documents may in some cases be requested.
A valid passport, signed by the holder, issued within the last 10 years and with a minimum validity of one year, is required. The passport must contain at least two consecutive blank pages. Please ensure you bring the original passport to your appointment.
One fully biometric passport photo, measuring 35 x 45 mm, taken within the last three months. Digitally altered photos will not be accepted. Please ensure that your photo complies with German biometric standards and is taken against a white or light-colored background.
Please bring your valid Qatar residence permit (QID) to the appointment.
- Researchers: hosting agreement (“Aufnahmevereinbarung”), must be signed by both parties. The actual amount of any salary paid must be indicated in the agreement. Please provide one copy.
- Visiting academics funded through employment must provide a copy of the Declaration of employment (Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis) to be completed, signed and stamped by the hosting institution
- Visiting academics funded through scholarship must provide a Confirmation by the hosting institution and confirmation of a scholarship, if applicable
- Self-funded visiting academics:
Evidence of sufficient funds, i.e. minimum EUR 1091/month. Options below may be combined, provided that the total requirements are met: OR
- formal obligation letter (“Verpflichtungserklärung”) by a sponsor residing in Germany
- Confirmation of health insurance cover in line with the level of statutory German public health insurance (“gesetzliche Kankenversicherung”).