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Visa Information

Embarking on a journey to study at Schiller International University opens the door to an unparalleled global education experience. With campuses in four of the most exciting cities across the world—Tampa, Heidelberg, Madrid, and Paris—we provide you with the unique opportunity to study across multiple countries.

Understanding the visa process can be overwhelming. Each of our campus locations has its own set of visa requirements, processes, and timelines for international students. Whether you're planning to begin your journey in one city or explore multiple campuses through our intercampus mobility program, it’s important to know the visa process step by step.

Schiller International University Paris Campus in France

France

Visa Requirements for Non-European Students

If you’re a non-European student planning to study at Schiller International University’s Paris campus, obtaining the right visa is an essential step in your journey. France welcomes international students, but it is crucial to ensure all visa requirements are met before your arrival.

Key Requirements for Studying in France

 


 

University Acceptance

You must first secure admission to Schiller International University (or another recognized educational institution in France). An official letter of acceptance or an enrollment certificate is necessary to initiate the visa application.

Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour)

If your course exceeds six months, you will need to apply for a long-stay student visa. This visa acts as a residence permit and may require additional formalities upon your arrival in France, such as validation through the OFII (French Office of Immigration and Integration).

How to Apply for a French Student Visa

Applying for a French student visa is a structured process for international students. France offers a digital-friendly visa application system that simplifies submission and accelerates processing.

1

Visit the France- Visas Portal

Begin by visiting the France-Visas website. Create an account, complete the visa application form, and indicate that you are applying for a student visa.

2

Upload Supporting Documents

The France-Visas portal allows you to submit digital copies of your supporting documents. Digitizing your documents speeds up the process and grants you access to a dedicated counter when visiting the external service provider.

3

Schedule an Appointment

Once your application is submitted, schedule an appointment at the nearest French consulate or visa center. At this appointment, you’ll provide biometric data (fingerprints and a photograph) and submit any additional documents.

4

Attend the 
Appointment

Bring your original documents and copies for verification. The visa center staff will review your application, and you may need to answer questions about your study plans and financial means.

5

Receive Your Visa

After processing, your visa will be affixed to your passport. For short-stay “student examination” visas, you may need to regularize your status at the local prefecture upon passing entrance exams.

Fees

The cost of a French long-stay student visa depends on whether the country of application follows the Études en France (EEF) procedure. The EEF procedure streamlines the process for students from specific countries, offering reduced fees for applicants from these regions.

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EEF Procedure Countries

For students applying from countries that follow the EEF process, the fee for a long-stay student visa is €50. This lower fee is part of an effort to facilitate access to French education for international students from these nations.

List of EEF Countries  

Africa

Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo, Ivory Coast, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Togo.

Asia

Burma, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam.

America

Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Haiti, Mexico, Peru, USA.

North Africa/Middle East

Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates.

Europe

Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, United Kingdom, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine.

 

 

For students applying from territories outside the EEF system, the fee for a long-stay student visa is €99. This applies to most other countries not listed as part of the EEF initiative.

Required Documents for a French Student Visa

Non-European students must gather the following documents to ensure a successful visa application:

Visa Application Form

Complete the form available on the France-Visas portal or your local French consulate's website.

Valid Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in France and contain at least two blank pages.

Passport-Sized Photos

Provide two recent passport-sized photos that meet French visa specifications.

Letter of Admission

Submit the official acceptance letter or enrollment certificate from Schiller International University or another recognized institution.

Proof of Financial Means

Demonstrate that you have at least €615 per month for the duration of your stay. This can be shown through bank statements, a guarantor’s letter, or proof of scholarship funding.

Health Insurance

Provide proof of health insurance that covers medical expenses in France. Students under the age of 28 may qualify for coverage under the French Sécurité Sociale.

Proof of Accommodation

Submit evidence of your housing arrangements, such as a rental agreement, dormitory confirmation, or an invitation from a host.

Academic Records

Include transcripts, diplomas, or certificates from your previous studies as evidence of your educational background.

Working While Studying

Foreign students are permitted to work up to 964 hours per year, which equates to 60% of the standard full-time hours in France. For context, this translates to approximately 19 hours per week during the academic year and up to full-time hours during school holidays.

However, Algerian nationals are subject to slightly stricter regulations, with their work limit set at 50% of the standard working hours in France, or approximately 822 hours per year.

Work After Studying in France

For international students, Paris provides a wealth of opportunities to transition from studying to working. The country’s vibrant economy, global business hubs, and focus on innovation make it an attractive destination for launching a career. However, the process of obtaining the right to work after graduation involves navigating specific visa regulations and employment requirements.

Temporary Residence Permit ("APS – Autorisation Provisoire de Séjour")

Non-European Union students who have completed a degree equivalent to a Master’s (or higher) are eligible to apply for a temporary residence permit. The APS is valid for 12 months (renewable once) and allows graduates to stay in France while seeking employment or starting a business.

During this period, you are permitted to work without a work contract, provided your income does not exceed 60% of the legal working hours. Once you secure a job related to your degree with a salary equal to or above 1.5 times the French minimum wage, you can transition to a full work visa.

Entrepreneurship Opportunities

For graduates who aspire to start their own businesses, France encourages entrepreneurship. You can apply for a residence permit as an entrepreneur if your business plan meets the country’s regulatory and economic criteria.

Permanent Work Visas

Once you secure employment, your employer can sponsor you for a work permit, such as the “Talent Passport” visa, which is aimed at skilled workers and professionals in areas like engineering, IT, and management.
Alternatively, if you have skills that are in demand in France (e.g., technology or finance sectors), you may qualify for other long-term residence permits.

European Union and Schengen Area Access

Graduates from EU, EEA, and Swiss countries have unrestricted access to France's job market and do not require a visa to work after graduation.

Disclaimer: The visa requirements and processes for international students studying in France are subject to change. We recommend visiting the official French government website or consulting with the French embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Schiller International University is not responsible for any discrepancies or updates not reflected here.

Drone camera view of the Schiller International University Heidelberg campus in Germany

Germany

Visa Requirements for Non-European Students

If you’re a non-European student planning to study at Schiller International University’s heidelberg campus, obtaining the right visa is an essential step in your journey. Germany welcomes international students, but it is crucial to ensure all visa requirements are met before your arrival.

Key Requirements for Studying in Germany

 


 

University Acceptance

You must first secure admission to Schiller International University’s Heidelberg campus (or another recognized educational institution in Germany). An official letter of acceptance or an enrollment certificate is necessary to initiate the visa application.

Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour)

For courses lasting longer than 90 days, you must apply for a German National Visa. Upon arrival, you will need to apply for a residence permit through local immigration authorities.

Blocked Account

To demonstrate financial independence, students must open a blocked account (Sperrkonto). This account ensures you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses during your stay. The required deposit for 2025 is €11,908.

Health Insurance

Proof of valid health insurance coverage in Germany is mandatory. Students are often required to purchase private travel insurance to cover the period before statutory health insurance becomes active.

How to Apply for a German Student Visa

The application process for a German student visa is systematic and efficient, but preparation is key.

1

Fill Out the Application

Download the application form from your nearest German consulate’s website or complete it online via the VIDEX portal, which streamlines the process.

2

Gather Supporting Documents

Documents include the completed visa application form (printed and signed), a valid passport, two passport-sized photos, an acceptance letter from Schiller International University, and blocked account confirmation.

3

Schedule an Appointment

Book an appointment at the nearest German consulate or visa application center.

4

Attend the Visa Interview

During your appointment, submit original documents, provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo), and pay the visa fee (€75 for adults, €37.50 for minors). Be prepared to answer questions about your study plans, accommodation, and financial means.

5

Await Processing

Visa processing can take several weeks. Apply as early as possible to avoid delays.

6

Receive Your Visa

Once approved, your visa will be affixed to your passport. Upon arrival in Germany, you must register your address and apply for a residence permit.

Student Visa Fees

€75

Applicants aged 18
or older.

€37.50

Applicants aged
under 18.

Required Documents for a German Student Visa

Non-European students must gather the following documents to ensure a successful visa application:

Visa Application Form

Complete and sign the form available online through the VIDEX portal or your consulate’s website.

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay and contain two blank pages.

Passport-Sized Photos

Two recent biometric photos that meet German visa specifications.

University Admission Letter

The official letter from Schiller International University confirming your enrollment.

Proof of Financial Means

Most students must show €11,908 in a blocked account. Other acceptable proofs include sponsorship letters or scholarships.

Health Insurance

Provide documentation of health insurance coverage for Germany. Temporary private travel insurance is required until statutory health insurance becomes active.

Academic Records and Language Proficiency

Include diplomas, transcripts, and any required language certificates.

Proof of Accommodation

Submit evidence of housing arrangements, such as a rental agreement or dormitory confirmation.

Working While Studying

Foreign students in Germany are allowed to work part-time, but restrictions apply. 
Students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Working more than this requires special permission from local labor authorities.

Work After Studying in France

Germany offers a number of opportunities for international students to transition into the workforce. Its robust economy and emphasis on innovation make it one of the most sought-after locations in Europe for launching a career.

Post-Graduation Work Opportunities

18-Month Job-Seeking Permit

After completing your degree, you can apply for an 18-month residence permit to search for employment related to your field of study. During this period, you may work in any job to support yourself.

EU Blue Card

If you secure a position with an annual salary of at least €56,800 (€44,304 for jobs in shortage fields like IT or engineering), you may qualify for the EU Blue Card, which simplifies residency and work rights in Germany and the EU.

Permanent Residency

Graduates who work in Germany for at least two years and meet other criteria can apply for permanent residency.

European Union and Schengen Area Access

Graduates from EU, EEA, and Swiss countries do not require visas to work or remain in Germany after graduation. Non-EU graduates, however, must follow the outlined visa and permit procedures.

Disclaimer: The visa requirements and processes for international students studying in Germany are subject to change. We recommend visiting the official German government website or consulting with the German embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Schiller International University is not responsible for any discrepancies or updates not reflected here.

Schiller International University Madrid Campus in Spain

Spain

Visa Requirements for Non-European Students

If you’re a non-European student planning to study at Schiller International University’s Madrid campus, obtaining the right visa is an essential step in your journey. France welcomes international students, but it is crucial to ensure all visa requirements are met before your arrival.

Key Requirements for Studying in France

 


 

University Acceptance

Secure admission to Schiller International University (or another recognized educational institution in Spain). An official letter of acceptance or an enrollment confirmation is necessary to proceed with your visa application.

Long-Stay Visa (Visa de Long Séjour)

If your stay in Spain will exceed 90 days, you must apply for a long-term student visa. Once in Spain, you’ll need to register with local authorities and obtain a Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE).

How to Apply for a French Student Visa

The Spanish student visa application process is straightforward, but careful preparation is essential.

1

Schedule an Appointment

Book an appointment with the Spanish consulate in your jurisdiction. You can typically do this online through the consulate’s website. Be mindful that appointment slots can fill up quickly, so schedule well in advance.

2

Prepare Supporting Documents

Collect all required documents in advance. Ensure that any documents requiring translation are professionally translated into Spanish.

3

Attend Your Appointment

On the scheduled date, bring your complete set of documents to the consulate. During the appointment, submit your application and documents, pay the visa fee (approximately €80; fees vary for specific nationalities), and provide biometric data (fingerprints).

4

Wait for Processing

Processing times vary but typically range from 3 to 6 weeks. Plan accordingly to ensure your visa is approved before your intended travel date.

5

Arrive in Spain and Register Locally

Once in Spain, you must register your address with local authorities and apply for a Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE) at the nearest police station or Foreigners’ Office within 30 days of arrival.

Fees

€80

Approximately

The Spanish student visa fee is approximately €80. Nationals of Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, the U.S., and the U.K. may have different rates due to reciprocity agreements. Consult the consulate for specific fee details.

Required Documents for a Spanish Student Visa

Non-European students must gather the following documents to ensure a successful visa application:

Visa Application Form

Completed and signed, available for download from the Spanish consulate’s website.

Valid Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay and have at least one blank page.

Passport-Sized Photos

Provide two recent photos that meet visa specifications.

Letter of Admission

Proof of acceptance to Schiller International University, such as an enrollment confirmation letter.

Proof of Financial Means

Documentation showing you can cover living expenses in Spain, typically €500 per month. Acceptable proofs include bank statements, affidavits, or scholarship letters.

Health Insurance

Provide proof of comprehensive health insurance that covers medical expenses in Spain.

Accommodation Details

Evidence of housing arrangements, such as a rental agreement or dormitory confirmation.

Academic Records

If requested, include transcripts, diplomas, or other relevant certificates.

Medical Certificate

Required for stays exceeding 180 days, stating you do not have any diseases that could affect public health per the 2005 International Health Regulations. It must be legalized and translated into Spanish, if applicable.

Working While Studying

Foreign students are permitted to work up to 964 hours per year, which equates to 60% of the standard full-time hours in France. For context, this translates to approximately 19 hours per week during the academic year and up to full-time hours during school holidays.

However, Algerian nationals are subject to slightly stricter regulations, with their work limit set at 50% of the standard working hours in France, or approximately 822 hours per year.

Work After Studying in Spain

For international students, Paris provides a wealth of opportunities to transition from studying to working. The country’s vibrant economy, global business hubs, and focus on innovation make it an attractive destination for launching a career. However, the process of obtaining the right to work after graduation involves navigating specific visa regulations and employment requirements.

Job Search Visa

Upon completing your studies, you may apply for a post-study work visa, allowing you to remain in Spain for up to one year to find a job.

Residence and Work Permits

After securing employment, you can apply for a work and residence permit. The application process typically includes submitting your employment contract and other supporting documents.

Permanent Residency

After residing and working in Spain for five years, you may qualify for permanent residency, offering additional benefits and rights.

European Union and Schengen Area Access

Graduates from EU, EEA, and Swiss countries do not require visas to work or remain in Germany after graduation. Non-EU graduates, however, must follow the outlined visa and permit procedures.

Disclaimer: The visa requirements and processes for international students studying in Spanish are subject to change. We recommend visiting the official Spanish government website or consulting with the Spanish embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Schiller International University is not responsible for any discrepancies or updates not reflected here.

Nearby view of Schiller International University Tampa, FL, campus 400 North Tampa

United States of America

Visa Requirements for Non-U.S. Students

If you’re a non-U.S. student planning to study at Schiller International University’s Tampa campus, obtaining the appropriate visa is an essential step. The F1 student visa allows international students to pursue full-time studies at U.S. institutions approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

Key Requirements for Studying in the U.S.

 


 

University Acceptance

You must be accepted into Schiller International University. Upon acceptance, the university will provide a Certificate of Eligibility for Non-Immigrant Student Status (Form I-20). This form is crucial for the visa application process.

F1 Student Visa

This visa allows for full-time study in the U.S., with limited options for part-time on-campus work. F1 visa applicants must demonstrate financial means, academic intent, and a commitment to return to their home country after their studies.

How to Apply for a U.S. Student Visa

The F1 visa application process includes the following steps:

1

Be Accepted into a Program

Obtain the Form I-20 from Schiller International University upon acceptance. Keep this document secure, as it is required for your visa application.

2

Register for SEVIS and Pay the Fee

Enroll in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and pay the $350 SEVIS fee. Ensure payment is completed before filling out your visa application.

3

Complete the DS-160 Form and Pay the Fee

Submit the Non-Immigrant Visa Application Form DS-160 online and pay the $160 application fee. You will also need to upload a passport-compliant photo.

4

Schedule a Visa Interview

Book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Interview slots can fill up quickly, so schedule well in advance.

5

Attend Your Interview

During the interview, present your documents, including the Form I-20 and financial proofs. Answer questions about your academic plans, finances, and intentions to return home after your studies. Provide biometrics (if required).

6

Receive Your Decision

Most applicants will receive a decision immediately after the interview. Approved applicants will have their visa processed and returned within a few days.

Fees

The F1 visa process involves the following fees:

Total costs are approximately $510, excluding any additional service fees charged by your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

€350

SEVIS Fee

€160

DS-160 Application Fee

Required Documents for an F1 Visa Application

To ensure a successful application, gather the following documents:

Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20)

Provided by Schiller International University after acceptance.e.

SEVIS Fee Receipt

Proof of payment of the $350 SEVIS fee.

DS-160 Confirmation Page

Provide two recent passport-sized photos that meet French visa specifications.

Passport

Valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

Old Passports

If applicable, bring any previous passports.

Financial Proof

Documentation showing your ability to fund your education and living expenses in the U.S., such as bank statements, sponsorship letters, or affidavits.

Photos

One physical and one digital passport-sized photo meeting U.S. immigration requirements.

Academic Records

Transcripts, diplomas, test scores, or certificates from previous schools.

Additional Supporting Documents

Other evidence demonstrating your academic and professional background, as well as your ties to your home country.

Working While Studying

While on an F1 visa, students are subject to strict work restrictions:

On-Campus Work:
Students may work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic term. During breaks, students can work full-time. On-campus jobs are highly competitive.

Off-Campus Work:

Off-campus work requires authorization through programs like Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT), typically available after completing one academic year.

Work After Studying in the U.S.

The U.S. offers various opportunities for international students to transition to the workforce after graduation:

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

F1 students may apply for Optical Practical Training (OPT), allowing up to 12 months of temporary employment directly related to their field of study. STEM graduates can extend OPT by an additional 24 months.

H1B Work Visa

Graduates who secure employment in the U.S. may be eligible for the H1B visa, which allows skilled workers to remain in the country for several years.

Permanent Residency

Long-term work and residency opportunities may be available through employer sponsorship or other visa pathways.

Disclaimer: Visa regulations for studying in the United States are frequently updated. We encourage you to consult the official U.S. government website or contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in your region for the most reliable and up-to-date information. Schiller International University does not assume responsibility for outdated or incorrect details.

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