Academics & Researchers

If you’re a British citizen working as an academic, you can come to spend an extended period at a German Higher Education Institution or research institution as a visiting academic or researcher. To qualify as a researcher, you’ll need a formal hosting agreement (Aufnahmevereinbarung) from the institution where you’ll be working. Otherwise you’ll be classed as a visiting academic.

You’ll need a visa or residence permit for researchers or academics to live and work in Germany for more than 90 days. You can apply for a visa before you leave – from the German Consulate General in Edinburgh (if you live in Scotland) or from the German Embassy in London (if you live in any other part of the UK). Alternatively, you can travel to Germany without a visa and apply for a residence permit from the local immigration office within 90 days, but you may only start working once your permit has been granted.

Requirements for a visa or residence permit for researchers or academics include:

• For researchers: a hosting agreement signed by both parties;
• For visiting academics: an employer declaration confirming the details of your employment; or confirmation of scholarship funding; or evidence of self-funding;
• Evidence of sufficient total funds (currently €1091/month) in the form of salary; scholarship; own funds in a blocked account or evidenced by bank statements; a German sponsor; or any combination of these;
• Evidence of health insurance cover in Germany (German statutory health insurance or equivalent).

Please note that this list is not exhaustive. Full details on visas for researchers or academics are available on the website of the German Missions in the UK. Details on applying for a residence permit after your arrival are available from the relevant local immigration office in Germany. The fee for a visa for academics is €75; research visas are free of charge. A residence permit obtained in Germany after arrival will usually cost you €100.

Like everyone living in Germany, you must register as a resident with the local authority within 14 days of moving into your accommodation. You’ll need confirmation of your registration to apply for your residence permit, or to have your visa converted into a residence permit.

Disclaimer: the information in this guide has been collated from government, academic, professional and public institution sources available at the time of publication. However, it is subject to change, and errors and omissions are excepted. Please always check directly with the relevant decision-making bodies and/or take professional advice for specific cases.