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From India to Germany

Entry & visa rule

A visa is required. You must obtain a national (D) visa at a German mission before you travel.

Legal basis (Source: Regulation (EU) 2018/1806, Last verified 21 July 2026)

Popular paths for your nationality

§ 18g AufenthG

EU Blue Card

The premium work permit for academics with a job offer above a salary threshold. Fastest route to permanent re…

§ 19c Abs. 2 AufenthG i. V. m. § 6 BeschV

IT / Experience Route

Germany hires self-taught developers: with 2+ years of relevant experience (within the last 5), a job offer pa…

§§ 20a, 20b AufenthG

Opportunity Card

A 12-month residence permit to come to Germany and look for a job — without a job offer. You qualify either as…

§ 16b, § 20 Abs. 3 AufenthG

Study → Work

Study in Germany (often tuition-free), work 140 full days per year alongside, then use the 18-month post-gradu…

Degree recognition

Indian degrees are frequently comparable; check your university's anabin status carefully — many private colleges are not H+.

IITs, NITs and most public universities are listed H+. If your college isn't, order a ZAB Statement of Comparability.

Embassy & application notes

Apply via the Consular Services Portal; German missions in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata handle work and student visas. Slots for tech workers fill fast.

Frequently asked questions

Do Indian citizens need a visa for Germany?

A visa is required. You must obtain a national (D) visa at a German mission before you travel.

Does my degree need to be recognised in Germany?

Indian degrees are frequently comparable; check your university's anabin status carefully — many private colleges are not H+.

Last verified: 21 July 2026