N.U.in Semester Visa
It is your responsibility to obtain an appropriate visa, if necessary, prior to your arrival in Germany. Please check with your local German consular authority for the most updated visa requirements and processes.
Detailed information about your N.U.in location’s visa process will be provided in the spring preceding your fall program entry. If applicable, Northeastern or the host partner institution will provide the documentation needed. Please note that such information is intended as informational guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Global Experience Office staff cannot advise students or families concerning visa requirements and/or application processes.
The 2025 N.U.in Germany visa guide will become available and published on this webpage in April 2025.
Please read and ensure that you understand the following points regarding the visa process of your N.U.in location:
Since the N.U.in Germany Program is over 90 days, the visa requirement for this program will depend on your specific citizenship. Passport holders from the EU/EEA and the U.S. will not need to apply for a Germany study visa before departing for Germany. Other nationalities that may need to apply for a visa should contact their local German consulate.
Applying for a German study visa requires time, effort, and multiple steps. While we will provide you guidance on the process, it is ultimately your responsibility to secure your visa in a timely manner. Processing times can vary from several weeks to months, depending on the consular authority and your specific situation. Please note that you may need to submit your passport for visa processing, which could impact any summer travel plans requiring your passport. Students in N.U.in Germany are encouraged to carefully consider extended summer travel within the Schengen Area, as it may affect their ability to obtain a visa before the start of their N.U.in program. Please be aware that you will also be responsible for any fees associated with the application, including consular fees, travel expenses, and additional documentation (e.g., background checks or medical certificates). Please stay proactive and check your Northeastern email regularly for updates. It is imperative not to wait until the last minute to begin the visa application process.
The German study visa process includes an in-country German residence permit process, which the partner institution and Northeastern University will assist students with in Berlin.
European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) passport holders do not require a visa to participate in N.U.in Germany, however, if you hold both a U.S. and an EU/EEA passport, you will need to travel with both passports. Your EU/EEA passport is required to enter Germany, while your U.S. passport will be needed for your return to the United States.
If you cannot obtain a valid visa in time for the program start date, please refer to the N.U.in Payment and Withdrawal Policy in your Application Status Check (posted in late spring) and contact the Global Experience Office to discuss next steps.
