Academic enrollment certificate copies now accepted for internship applications

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Students applying for internship work placement can now do so with a copy of their college or university enrollment certificate rather than the original.

What does the change mean? Students should keep their original certificates and submit copies.

• Implementation timeframe: The change went into effect in January.
• Visas/permits affected: Internship work permits.
• Who is affected: Non-EU/EEA nationals applying for student internship work placement in Germany.
• Impact on processing times:The change saves time in the overall application process because applicants can now scan enrollment certificates and send them by email rather than send original copies by courier.
• Next Steps:Applicants can contact their local BAL office to obtain an enrollment certificate form and then take it to the appropriate university or college official to have it filled out, stamped and signed. Copies of the certificates can be sent electronically.

Background: Foreign students applying for internships in Germany must show they are enrolled in a college or university by submitting a form called an enrollment certificate. Whereas applicants previously sent originals, they are now encouraged to keep their original certificates because they may be requested by German embassies or consulates in their home countries.

BAL Analysis: The change adds flexibility that makes the overall application process easier. Applicants for student internship work placement should send copies of enrolment certificates with their applications and retain originals in case they are requested by German embassies or consulates.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Germany. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.