How ISS supports you with visa & residence permit matters
Get the right support for your stay in Germany
2025/10/09
Let ISS guide you through visas, residence permits, and Foreigners’ Office appointments. Start your journey stress-free!
Moving to Germany to study is exciting, but the paperwork can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s where the International Student Services (ISS) at TU Darmstadt comes in! We’re here to support you with all matters related to your visa, residence permit, and the Foreigners’ Office so you can focus on settling into student life.
1. Guidance before and after arrival:
Already before you travel to Germany, ISS provides you with essential information about entry regulations, required documents, and visas. However, bear in mind that we cannot influence the German Embassy’s visa process or appointments abroad, so book a visa appointment as soon as you apply to TU Darmstadt, since wait times can take months (and sometimes even years). After arrival, we help you understand what kind of residence permit you need and how to apply for it in Darmstadt in our orientation events, so don’t miss out!
A visa or residence permit isn’t the only thing you need before and after you arrive. For a more comprehensive guide on all the steps you need to take, check out our “Before Arrival” and “After Arrival” checklists.
2. Support with appointments and communication:
Getting an appointment at the Foreigners’ Office can sometimes be tricky. You have to contact the Foreigners’ Office (not us) in writing at least three months before your visa or residence permit expires. ISS can advise you on the process, explain what documents you need, and aid in communication with the respective authorities so that your appointment goes smoothly.
On our residence permit website, you can find many useful information, such as our step-by-step video tutorial to help you fill out residence permit application with the Foreigners Office in Darmstadt, a document checklist (opens in new tab), the proof of financial means information sheet (opens in new tab), and more.
3. Document checks and application help:
Residence permit applications require specific documents, from proof of enrollment to health insurance and financial statements. Once you have gathered these documents, our team can help you review your paperwork before submitting it to make sure nothing is missing.
Want our team to help check your documents? Have specific questions or need further support? Come to our consultation hours, available to you both online and in person. You can also fill out our online inquiry form so that we are informed about your circumstances. We’ll get back to you as soon as we can!
4. Renewals and changes:
Need to extend your residence permit or change your purpose of residence (e.g., switching from language course to degree program)? ISS can advise you on the process, which documents to prepare, and the deadlines to keep in mind.
5. Updates on change of regulation:
ISS regularly informs students about new rules, changes in procedures at the Foreigners’ Office, or practical tips for visa-related issues. Keep an eye on our website and social media to stay up to date!
Living and studying in Germany means navigating a new system of rules and responsibilities. With the support of ISS, you’re never on your own. Take advantage of our experience, resources, and guidance to make the bureaucratic process easier, and enjoy your studies at TU Darmstadt with peace of mind! The most important thing is to contact us well in advance so that we can help you.
