India, Germany Announce Free Student Exchange Visas Amid Surge in Indian Enrolments

New Delhi, Sept 8 (2025): In a major boost for India–Germany education ties, the two countries have agreed to provide free visas for short-term school and college visits. The decision was announced after talks between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and German Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs Johann Wadephul in New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed.

Strengthening India–Germany Education Partnership

The initiative aims to ease student mobility and promote academic exchanges. Both ministers also reviewed progress in trade, green development, and security under the India–Germany Strategic Partnership. Gratis visas for short academic visits are expected to encourage people-to-people ties and create new opportunities for young learners.

Check Out: Study in Germany

Germany Surpasses US and Canada in Popularity

The move comes as Germany emerges as the top choice for Indian students, overtaking the US and Canada.

According to upGrad’s Transnational Education (TNE) Report 2024–25:

• Germany’s share of Indian student applications rose from 13.2% in 2022 to 32.6% in 2025.
• Canada’s share dropped from 17.8% to 9.3%.
• Applications to US universities fell by 13% year-on-year.

According to the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), Indian enrolments are growing steadily:

• Around 60,000 Indian students are currently studying in Germany (a 20% increase in one year).
• 49,483 Indian students were enrolled in German universities during the 2023–24 winter semester, marking a 15.1% year-on-year rise.
• German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann called Germany’s public universities “highly prestigious and affordable” and urged students to carefully evaluate private institutions.

Check:

• Intakes in Germany
• Winter Semester in Germany

Why Indian Students Prefer Germany?

For many Indian students, Germany offers high-quality education at low cost.

• Top programs in engineering, technology, and research.
• Low tuition fees and affordable cost of living in Germany.
• Strong job prospects in industries like automobiles, manufacturing, and data science.
• Students also cite public transport, cultural diversity, and a balanced lifestyle as key advantages.

Check: Top Universities in Germany

The free visa policy makes short-term student exchanges easier and more accessible. For Indian students planning to study in Germany, this strengthens the country’s position as a safe, affordable, and welcoming alternative to traditional destinations like the US, UK, and Canada.