Studying in Germany with a Residence Permit from Another EU Country: The Ultimate Guide (2026)Written by Isma Khalid

Studying in Germany with a Residence Permit from Another EU Country: The Ultimate Guide (2026)

Written by Isma Khalid

Are you already studying in Europe and dreaming of spending a semester or a full degree program in Germany? Whether it’s the lure of world-class engineering, the vibrant culture of Berlin, or the tuition-free education at public universities, Germany is a top destination for international students.

However, a common question arises: "Can I study in Germany if I already have a residence permit from another EU country?"

The answer is: Yes, but the process depends entirely on your nationality, the type of permit you hold, and how long you plan to stay.

At VisaFlow, we simplify complex immigration rules. In this guide, we break down the REST Directive, the Erasmus+ mobility rules, and the steps you need to take to ensure your transition to Germany is seamless and legal.

1. The REST Directive: Your Ticket to Intra-EU Mobility

If you are a non-EU national studying in an EU member state (like France, Spain, or Italy), you may be eligible under the EU REST Directive (2016/801). This directive was designed to make it easier for international students to move between EU countries for academic purposes.

How it Works

Under the REST Directive, you can enter and study in Germany for up to 360 days without needing a new visa, provided you already hold a valid residence permit for study purposes from another EU member state.

The Catch: It’s Not Automatic

You cannot simply pack your bags and move. To qualify for this visa-free entry, specific conditions must be met:

1. Purpose of Study: Your current residence permit must have been issued specifically for studying.
2. Validity: Your permit must remain valid for the entire duration of your planned stay in Germany.
3. The REST Procedure: This is the most critical step. Your host university in Germany must initiate the mobility notification procedure with the German Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) BEFORE you arrive in Germany. You can find a step-by-step guide on REST procedure on Info Hub in our platform.

Note: The REST Directive does not apply to residence permits issued by Ireland or Denmark, as these countries do not participate in this specific EU mobility scheme.

‍

2. Studying via Erasmus+ and Formal Mobility Schemes

If you are coming to Germany as part of the Erasmus+ programme or another recognized EU exchange scheme, the process is generally streamlined.

Because these programs are built on intra-EU cooperation, the "mobility notification" (REST procedure) is a standard part of the administrative trail. However, do not assume it’s being handled for you.

Verify Your REST Eligibility Before You Travel

Even if you are participating in Erasmus+ or another exchange programme, never assume the REST procedure is automatically handled for you. Always confirm directly with your German host university whether the mobility notification has been properly submitted to BAMF and whether it applies to your specific situation.

A common and costly mistake we see is students assuming they can simply enter Germany with their valid student residence permit from another EU country and then apply for a German residence permit after arrival. This is not possible unless you fall under a visa-waiver agreement. A student residence permit issued by France, Italy, or Spain does not automatically give you the right to relocate to Germany for long-term study.

In several cases, students believed they were eligible under the REST Directive but failed to initiate the procedure correctly before entering Germany. When they later applied for a German residence permit, their application was rejected because their stay was considered unauthorized or an overstay under German immigration law.

Most importantly: the REST procedure must be initiated and approved before you enter Germany. It cannot be started retroactively after arrival. Always contact the International Office or the Erasmus Coordinator at your German host university at least two to three months before your planned start date. They are responsible for notifying the German authorities of your arrival and confirming whether the mobility notification has been properly submitted.

‍

3. What if I Don't Fall Under the REST Directive?

If you are not part of a formal mobility program, or if your university does not initiate the REST procedure, your ability to enter Germany depends on your nationality.

Visa-Waiver Countries

Germany has bilateral agreements with several countries. If you hold a passport from one of the following nations, you can enter Germany visa-free and apply for your residence permit at the local Ausländerbehörde (Immigration Office) within 90 days of arrival:

• Group A (Full Mobility): Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, United Kingdom, USA. (May also apply for work permits after arrival).
• Group B (Study/Non-Work Mobility): Andorra, Brazil, El Salvador, Honduras, Monaco, San Marino. (May apply for student/non-gainful permits after arrival).

All Other Nationalities

If your country is not on the list above and you are not covered by the REST procedure, you must apply for a German National Visa (D-Visa) at a German embassy or consulate before entering the country. Holding a residence permit from Italy or Hungary, for example, does not grant you the right to move to Germany for long-term study without following these specific protocols.

‍

4. Holding a "Long-Term EU Residence Permit"

There is a difference between a standard "Student Residence Permit" and a "Long-Term EU Residence Permit" (issued under Directive 2003/109/EC). The latter is usually granted after five years of legal residence in an EU country.

If you hold this specific long-term status from another EU country:

• You can enter Germany without a visa.
• If you stay longer than 90 days (which is standard for a semester of study), you must apply for a German residence permit at the local immigration office after arrival.

Because this status is less common for students, we highly recommend contacting the German Embassy in your current country of residence to clarify the specific documents required for your transition.

‍

5. Checklist: Documents You Will Need for the REST-Procedure

Regardless of which path you take, the German authorities will generally require the following evidence to grant you the right to study:

• A Valid Passport: Must be valid for your entire stay.
• Proof of Enrollment: An admission letter from a German university.
• Proof of Financial Means: Currently, students in Germany must prove they have access to approximately €992 per month (as of 2024/2025). This is often done through a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto).
• Health Insurance: You must have health insurance that meets German standards. If you have European Health Insurance (EHIC) from another EU country, it may be recognized, but always verify this with a German public health insurance provider like TK or AOK.
• Current EU Residence Permit: A copy of your permit from your "first" EU country.

‍

6. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Expired Permits: If your Spanish residence permit expires while you are in Germany, and you haven't secured a German permit, you are technically in the country illegally. Always renew your original permit before leaving or apply for the German permit well in advance.
• Working Rights: Your right to work in Germany may differ from your right to work in your previous EU country. Generally, international students in Germany can work 140 full days or 280 half days per year.
• Late Notifications: If your university forgets the REST notification, you might be stopped at the border or face issues when registering your address (Anmeldung).

‍

Why Use VisaFlow for Your Move to Germany?

Navigating the transition between two European immigration systems is exhausting. Between the REST Directive, blocked accounts, and health insurance requirements, there is zero room for error.

At VisaFlow, we specialize in helping international students bridge the gap. We provide:

• Expert Consultation: We help you determine if you qualify for the REST procedure or if you need a visa.
• Blocked Account Assistance: Get guidance on blocked account providers.
• Health Insurance Solutions: Tailored plans that meet German visa requirements perfectly.

Ready to start your German academic journey? Contact VisaFlow today and let us handle the paperwork while you focus on your studies.

‍

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I travel to Germany with my French student residence permit?

A: Yes, for tourism (up to 90 days). For study, your German university must initiate the REST procedure, or you may need a visa.

Q: Do I need a Blocked Account if I am moving from another EU country?

A: Yes. Unless you have a scholarship or a formal guarantee (Verpflichtungserklärung), Germany requires proof of funds for all non-EU students.

Q: How long does the REST procedure take?

A: It should be initiated several weeks before your arrival. Check with your host university's International Office immediately upon acceptance.

‍