What is a Category D visa?

A Category D visa is a type of German visa. It’s also called a National Visa. It lets you enter Germany to work, study or start a business. The Category D visa is only valid for 3 to 12 months. You must convert it to a residence permit at the Ausländerbehörde after you arrive in Germany.

The tourist visa is not a Category D visa.

More about visas and residence permits