Overview of the Germany visa application process
The Germany visa application process varies depending on nationality, length of stay and purpose of travel (tourism, business, study, work, etc.). Find a detailed and informative guide below to help you through each step, with helpful links to make the process easier.
1. Determine the type of visa needed
Before you begin the application, it is crucial to identify the type of visa suitable for your situation. Germany offers several visa categories, including:
– Schengen Visa (short stay): For stays of less than 90 days, including tourism, business, and family visits.
– National visa (long stay): For stays of more than 90 days, such as studies, work, or family reunification.
– Work visa: For people with a job offer in Germany.
– Study visa: For those enrolled in a study program in Germany.
– Family Visit Visa: To visit family members living in Germany.
Link to determine the required visa: Visa types – German Missions Abroad
2. Check if a visa is required
Citizens of the European Union and some countries, such as the United States and Canada, do not need a visa for short-term stays in Germany. However, the majority of nationals from Africa, Asia, and several other countries must obtain a visa before traveling to Germany.
Link to check visa requirements: Do I need a visa? – Germany Visa Information
https://www.germany.info/us-en/service/visa-entry/do-i-need-a-visa/925074
3. Documents required for visa application
The documents to be provided vary depending on the type of visa requested. However, find below the documents generally required for an application for a Schengen visa (short stay) or a national visa (long stay):
– Valid passport: Valid for at least three months after the expected return date, with two blank pages.
– Visa application form: Completed and signed.
– Recent ID photo: Complies with European standards.
– Proof of financial resources: Recent bank statements or sponsorship letter proving that you can cover the costs of your stay.
– Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservation or invitation letter from a person residing in Germany.
– Travel insurance: Covering a minimum amount of €30,000 for medical emergencies.
– Return plane ticket: Or proof of itinerary.
– Reasons for visit: Clear explanation of the purpose of the stay and the duration.
For a national visa, additional documents, such as employment contracts or university acceptance letters, are required.
Link to check the documents required by visa type: Germany Visa Information – Required Documents https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/germany-visa/
4. Complete the online visa application form
The visa application for Germany is made online or via a paper form available on the website of the German diplomatic missions. You must complete a specific form for the type of visa you are applying for.
Steps:
Access the online form for the selected visa type.
Fill in your personal information: Passport details, travel information, etc.
Upload the required documents (scans of your passport, proof of funds, plane tickets, etc.).
Submit the form and pay the processing fee.
Link to access the visa application form: Germany Visa Application Forms
5. Make an appointment at the consulate or visa application center
Once you have submitted the online application, you must make an appointment with the German embassy or consulate in your country of residence. For some countries, the application may be processed by a partner visa center, such as VFS Global.
Steps:
Identify the relevant embassy or visa center for your region.
Make an appointment online for document submission and biometric data collection (fingerprints and photo).
Arrive at the appointment with original documents and copies.
Link to make an appointment: Germany Visa Appointment System
https://www.germany.info/us-en/service/visa/scheduling-an-appointment
6. Pay visa fees
Visa fees depend on the type of visa and the length of stay. Find below an overview of the usual fees for a Schengen visa (short stay) and a national visa (long stay):
– Schengen visa (short stay): Around €80.
– National visa (long stay): Around €75.
– Visa for children under 6 years old: Free.
Payment is usually made at the time of submission of documents to the consulate or visa center.
Link to view visa fees: Germany Visa Fees
7. Submission of biometric data
When you go to the visa center or consulate, you will need to provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph). If you have already provided your biometric data for a Schengen visa within the last 59 months, you do not need to do so again.
8. Processing of the request and follow-up
Germany visa application processing can take between 15 days and 60 days, depending on the visa type and time of year. Schengen visas typically take up to 15 working days, while national visas can take up to 3 months.
You can track the status of your application online using the tracking number provided during submission.
Link to track the visa application: Track Germany Visa Application
https://visa.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/germany/germany-track-application.html
9. Receipt of the visa
Once your application is approved, you will receive your passport with the visa stamped inside. You can collect it in person or opt for a delivery service if available. If your application is denied, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the denial, and you can appeal the decision.
10. Arrival in Germany
Upon arrival in Germany, you must present:
– Your passport with valid visa.
– Proof of accommodation.
– Travel insurance (for visitors with Schengen visa).
– Proof of funds (if requested).
The customs officer may ask you questions to ensure that your stay meets the conditions of your visa.
11. Visa extension or change of status
If you are already in Germany with a national visa (long stay), you can apply for a residence card once there. For short-term visas, an extension is rare, except in exceptional circumstances (health problems, force majeure).
Link to extend a visa or apply for a residence permit: Residence permit in Germany
https://www.germany.info/us-en/service/visa/residence-permit
Additional resources:
Determine if you need a visa : Do I need a visa?
Visa application forms : Germany Visa Application Forms
Make an appointment at the consulate : Germany Visa Appointment System
Track your visa application : Track Germany Visa Application
By following our guide or letting us assist you, and ensuring you provide the necessary documents, you can increase your chances of obtaining a visa to Germany.