Prior to receiving detailed information in April 2026, please work on securing a valid passport as soon as possible. You must have a passport valid through at least July 1, 2027, or six months after the end of your N.U.in program. We recommend applying for or renewing your passport as soon as possible if you do not already have a passport or if it will expire before July 1, 2027.
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 and 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 individual visa requirements and/or application processes.
General guidelines for the visa process:
Please read and ensure that you understand the following points regarding the visa process of your N.U.in location:
We strongly encourage that all students limit any travel in the Schengen Area after May 1st. Travel to the Schengen Area prior to the start of the program may impact students’ ability to travel outside Germany while their residency permit process is being completed. If you anticipate you will travel after May 1st in the Schengen Area, please let us know by emailing [email protected].
If you are required to apply for a German study visa, the process 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 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.
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.
Please note, enrolling students who anticipate needing an F-1 Visa for the duration of their time at Northeastern on the Boston campus are eligible to begin the application process as soon as possible once an enrollment deposit has been received. Students will need to first request for and receive a Form I-20 from Northeastern prior to applying for an F-1 visa. Additional information about the F-1 visa process can be found in the OGS Self-Service Portal and will be updated as guidance evolves (Note: You must be logged in with your Northeastern credentials to access this article).
If you will require a German student visa to participate in N.U.in Germany and an F-1 visa for your time at Northeastern’s Boston campus, please plan carefully to ensure you have access to your passport when needed. Should you have questions about completing your N.U.in visa requirements and F-1 obligations over the summer, please contact us at [email protected].