Last updated 16 October 2026, 00:00 (UTC+0)
Visa for traveling to work as researcher, visiting scholar, and research fellow D in Germany for Russians
Researcher work visa, Visa for visiting scholar, Research fellow visa
Visa for traveling to work as researcher, visiting scholar, and research fellow — what you need to know
Issued to foreign nationals who intend to enter Germany for the purpose of working as researchers, visiting scholars, or research fellows.
To obtain the visa, a hosting agreement or employment contract with a German research institution must be concluded
An academic degree or higher education qualification allowing admission to a doctoral program is sufficient; holding a PhD is not mandatory
Funding may come from a salary, a scholarship, or personal funds
For scholarship holders and self-funded researchers, €1,091 net per month is required in 2026
The residence permit for researchers is issued for a minimum of 1 year and can be extended if the conditions are maintained
Process: agreement with the research organization and confirmation of funding → application for a national visa → D visa → entry → researcher residence permit
It is possible to relocate with a spouse and minor children; the spouse receives the right to work under the family residence permit
Approval of employment by the Federal Employment Agency is not required
In addition to research at the designated host organization, teaching is permitted
After completing the research, it is possible to obtain a job-seeking residence permit in Germany for up to 18 months, upon confirmation of funds for living expenses
It is possible to conduct research and teach in other EU countries (except the UK, Ireland, and Denmark) within a limited period
After 4 years of work under this status, it is possible to apply for a permanent residence permit, provided the remaining conditions are met
Eligible individuals:
- Researcher
- Visiting scholar
- Research fellow
How does this visa work?
Don’t postpone the application
The visa is processed from 14 days to 20 days. Many people contact us 3–5 days before their trip, so start the process in advance
How can you prove the basis for the visa?
They clarify the purpose of the visit and future activities in the country
What must be prepared?
Basic package — always required, regardless of the application conditions
What additional documents may be required?
Documents required vary depending on individual circumstances, specific visa conditions, the place, and the method of application.
*Foreign official documents must be apostilled and legalized in accordance with the regulations of the country whose consular or diplomatic mission they are being submitted to. Additionally, they must be accompanied by a certified translation into the official language of that country or into English, unless otherwise specified by the mission's requirements.
**Prior to submitting the documents, it is strongly advised to verify the specific procedures and requirements with the relevant mission.
Are you eligible for this visa?
Clear purposes of the visit and documents confirming them, in accordance with the visa conditions.
The applicant does not pose a threat to public order, internal security, public health or international relations of one or more member states.
Insurance policy for the entire period of stay, meeting the minimum mandatory or recommended requirements for the country.
Valid permanent resident status or proof thereof; all preliminary procedures for visa application have been completed.
Official visa information
English international
Category code
D
Type of visa
National visa
Category
Work visas