The visa for language acquisition (Section 16f AufenthG) lets you learn German intensively in Germany, from beginner level up to university entrance exams such as TestDaF or DSH.

What counts as an intensive course

The language course must be intensive: at least 18 hours of classroom teaching per week. Evening, online or weekend courses are not enough for a national visa.

Proof of funds

You must show that your living costs are covered for the entire course. Check the monthly amount for your visa category with the German mission, as it changes every year. The usual method is a blocked account covering the whole period of study.

No work and other restrictions

The language course visa is usually issued for a maximum of one year and does not allow any employment, not even a minijob. Plan your finances entirely on your own savings.

Language course visa or prospective student visa

If your goal is to study in Germany, the visa for prospective students (Section 17 AufenthG) is usually the better choice. Unlike a pure language course visa, it allows you to switch to a student residence permit in Germany without leaving the country.

What to check

  • Sign a contract with a recognised language school for an intensive course of at least 18 hours a week.
  • Pay for the course in full or pay the deposit required by the school.
  • Open a blocked account as proof of funds.
  • Write a convincing motivation letter explaining why you need German for your career.

Example situation

A prospective student pays for a nine-month TestDaF preparation course in Munich, opens a blocked account for the amount required by the German mission (in 2026, €1,091 per month for prospective students) and receives the prospective student visa.

Next step

If you plan to study in Germany, apply for the prospective student visa so you do not have to leave the country after your exam.

Official information on this topic

Checklists and examples are organisational recommendations. Requirements depend on the procedure, the city and your situation; check them with the relevant office before you act. Please discuss legal and tax questions with an authorised professional.

This article was prepared with the help of AI. The example illustrates the approach and does not describe a client case.