Step 3: German Visa Application
Step 3: German Visa Application
Prepare your materials
Use the following checklist to gather the required documents.
Application form
For the reference section of the visa application, please use the following information:
Jutta Gutzeit, Smith Program Abroad in Hamburg Director
Smith in Hamburg Gästehaus, Rothenbaumchaussee 34 Apt 210, 20148 Hamburg, Germany
Phone: +49 40 44 76 54
jgutzeit@smith.edu
Visa Support Letters from Director, Jutta Gutzeit and Study Abroad Coordinator, Angelo Pisano
Passport with at least 2 blank pages
Copy of passport and copy of another photo ID
Acceptance letter
Official transcript
CV/Resume - be sure to use a German format
Letter of motivation
Language proficiency proof - not required since your acceptance letter covers this
Proof of adequate financial means
You may prove adequate means through bank statements, sponsor letter from parents with a bank statement, scholarship letter, etc. You may be asked during the processing of your visa to set up a blocked account. Once they request a blocked account, the processing will be interrupted and the overall processing time will be significantly longer. You need to notarize whatever form of financial means you present in your appointment. Notary services are available from the Registrar's Office, SFS, or the Finance team in College Hall or Forbes Library.
Proof of adequate health insurance coverage - Smith will provide this for you
Self-addressed envelope with pre-paid shipping
The step-by-step guide on completing the visa application may be helpful.
Schedule your appointment (up to 28 days from the day you acess this link) at the appropriate consulate with jurisdiction over your home state. New appointments may become available in the same week, please check a few times each day if you're not successful in finding a suitable time. Appointment availability may refresh at around 6 PM EST.
Fall/Academic Year Participants: Try to schedule your appointments for the visa between May 15 and June 15, if possible. Spring Participants: Schedule your appointments as early as possible following acceptance because the German consulates are closed during the week of Christmas. Between November 1 and December 1, if possible.