Sponsorship

Hi Asma, that’s a really important and practical question. For your visa, the official and government-recognized form of financial sponsorship is called a “Verpflichtungserklärung” (Declaration of Commitment). Here’s what you should know: 1. Where to get it – Your sponsor has to apply for the Verpflichtungserklärung at the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) where they live in Germany. This is the only authority that can issue it, and they provide the official forms. In some cities, like Berlin, the application can even be done online (for example: Berlin Immigration Office). 2. What it means – By signing this declaration, your sponsor agrees to cover all costs related to your stay in Germany – this includes living expenses, accommodation, food, medical treatment, and even potential repatriation costs. The obligation is legally based on §§ 66–68 of the German Residence Act (Aufenthaltsgesetz). 3. Requirements – The immigration office will review your sponsor’s financial documents (proof of income, rental contract, residence status) to make sure they are able to take on this responsibility. Once approved, their signature is officially certified. 4. Validity – The document should be no older than 6 months when you submit your visa application, because financial circumstances can change. If it’s older, the embassy usually requires a new declaration. 5. Revocation – Once issued, it cannot simply be revoked. Even if your sponsor changes their mind, they may still remain legally responsible for the costs of your stay. 6. Security – The document is printed on a forgery-proof form and must be submitted in the original with the official seal. Copies are not accepted by the embassy or consulate. If your sponsor applies successfully and sends you the original document, you can use it as official proof of financial sponsorship in your visa application. For full details, you can also check the Federal Foreign Office’s explanation of the Verpflichtungserklärung. If you let me know which federal state (Bundesland) your sponsor lives in, I’d be happy to help you find the exact immigration office responsible. Warm regards, Sophie from Get2Germany