5 routes

Germany: routes compared

The same published facts for everyone. Open a route for its full figures and sources, or take the free check to compare them with your profile.

Information, not immigration advice. These are general summaries; always confirm on the official pages.

Side by side

Show amounts inApproximate, at rates of 27 Oct 2026. Banks use different rates.

Study visa

International students admitted to a German university or a recognised preparatory course.

Main fee: €75
Money to show: €11,904 a year, blocked account
Decision time: Varies by mission or country

Last checked 27 Oct 2026

Costs and steps from: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Philippines

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EU Blue Card

Graduates with a recognised degree and a qualified job offer in Germany, plus some IT specialists without a degree.

Main fee: €75
Money to show: No fixed amount
Decision time: Varies by mission or country

Last checked 27 Oct 2026

Costs and steps from: India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Philippines

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Opportunity Card

Skilled workers with a recognised degree or vocational qualification who want to move to Germany first and then look for a job.

Main fee: €75
Money to show: €13,092 a year
Decision time: Varies by mission or country

Last checked 27 Oct 2026

Costs and steps from: India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Philippines

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Spouse of a German

Husbands, wives and registered partners of German citizens who live in Germany.

Main fee: Waived for spouses of Germans
Money to show: No income requirement listed
Decision time: Varies by mission or country

Last checked 29 Oct 2026

Costs and steps from: India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Philippines

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Spouse of a resident

Husbands, wives and registered partners of non-German citizens who live in Germany legally, for example skilled workers, EU Blue Card holders or permanent residents.

Main fee: €75
Money to show: Sponsor's income and housing; no fixed amount
Decision time: Varies by mission or country

Last checked 29 Oct 2026

Costs and steps from: India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Kenya, Philippines

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Best value

Germany pack · £9.99

All 5 Germany guides, a family cost sheet and every checklist. One guide alone is £4.99.

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Before you pay anyone

Nobody can guarantee a visa. Only the government of the country you apply to decides.
UK employers must not charge you for a Certificate of Sponsorship.
German missions say you don't need an agent to get a visa appointment.
Check any adviser or recruitment agent on an official register before you pay.

How to check an agent in your country