Apply for Germany Visa

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Woow, No Tourist Visa required on your trip to Germany.

Citizens of United States of America do not require visas for travel to Germany and as it is one of the visa exempt countries.

Germany

Germany is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world due to its rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and bustling cities. However, before planning a trip to Germany, many foreign nationals need to obtain a visa to enter the country. The visa application process can be time-consuming and complicated, often requiring applicants to visit a German embassy or consulate in person.


 To streamline this process, Germany is launching the Germany eVisa next year, an electronic visa that will allow travelers to apply for their visa online. This new system is expected to make the application process faster, more efficient, and more convenient for applicants.

Overview of Germany Visa Types

Germany issues three types of visas based on travel purpose and duration of stay: Schengen Visa for short stays up to 90 days, Airport Transit Visa for transiting through a German airport, and National Visa for long stays over 90 days. National Visa is for various purposes including work, study, and family reunification. Visa requirements and application process may vary for each category. Determine which visa is suitable before starting the application process.

  • Germany Schengen Visa
    • Germany Tourist Visa
    • Germany Business/Congress/Trade Fair Visit Visa
    • Germany Medical Treatment Visa
    • Germany Cultural, Scientific, Sports Events Visa
    • Germany Visiting Family and Friends Visa
    • Germany Visa for Spouses / Relative of EU / German Nationals
    • Germany Study (Schengen) Visa
    • Germany Work (Schengen) Visa
  • Germany Transit Visa
  • Germany National Visa
    • Germany Employment Visa & Blue Card
    • Germany Job Seeker Visa
    • Germany Self-Employment Visa
    • Germany Study (National) Visa
    • Germany Family Reunion Visa
    • Germany Medical Treatment Visa
    • Germany Au Pair Visa

Documents Required for German eVisa Online / Visa on arrival / ETA / Invite letters

Germany Visa Requirements: What You Need to Know

If you're planning a trip to Germany and need a visa, it's important to know the requirements before applying. Here are the key things you need to know:

Visa type: Germany offers several types of visas, including tourist visas, business visas, and student visas. Make sure you apply for the correct visa type based on your purpose of travel.

Application form: You'll need to complete the German visa application form, which is available online. Provide accurate and complete information, and be sure to sign the form.

Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Germany. It should also have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

Photo: You'll need to provide a recent passport-size photo, taken against a white background.

Proof of travel arrangements: You'll need to provide evidence of your travel arrangements, such as flight tickets and hotel reservations.

Financial proof: You'll need to provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses while in Germany.

Health insurance: You'll need to provide proof of travel health insurance that meets the minimum requirements set by the German government.

Other documents: Depending on the type of visa you're applying for, you may need to provide additional documents, such as a letter of invitation, proof of employment or enrollment, and a criminal record check.

It's important to note that the visa application process can take several weeks, so plan accordingly and apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.

Understanding the Validity of Germany Visas

The validity of your German visa varies depending on the type of visa you have applied for. 

Visa type

Validity

Germany Airport Transit Visa

24 hours

Germany Schengen (Tourist) Visa

90 days in a 180 day period

Germany Business Visa

90 days in a 180 day period

Germany Student Applicant Visa

3 months (in case you haven’t received a formal admission yet)

Germany Student Visa

More than 3 months (depends on your study program)

Germany Job Seeker Visa

6 months

Germany Research and Guest Scientist Visa

3 months up to 6 months (may last longer depending on the research)

Germany Freelancer Entry Visa

3 months

Germany Freelancer Long-Stay Visa

1 up to 3 years

Germany Language Course Visa

3 months

Germany Temporary Work Permit

1 up to 3 years (depends on the contract)

Germany Family Reunion Visa

1 year (initially)

Germany EU Blue Card

4 years (with possible extension)

If you have applied for a long-stay visa in Germany, your initial entry visa (D visa) will be valid for a period of three to six months. Once you have entered the country, you can obtain a temporary permit for one to three years, depending on the type of visa you have. After this period, you may explore options for obtaining a permanent residence visa.

Guide to Completing the Germany Online Visa Application Form

When completing the Germany online visa application form, you will need to provide personal information such as your full name, date of birth, and contact details. You will also need to provide information about your trip, including the purpose of your visit, your planned dates of travel, and your itinerary.

How to Apply for a Germany Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

To apply for a Germany visa, you can choose between applying online (eVisa) or at a German embassy or consulate. 

Applying for a Germany Visa Online (eVisa) - Everything You Need to Know

Here are the key points you need to know when applying for a Germany eVisa:

  • Germany offers eVisas for certain types of short-stay visas, including tourist, business, and medical visas.
  • To apply for a Germany eVisa, you need to complete an online application form, upload supporting documents, and pay the visa fee using a valid credit card.
  • The application process for a Germany eVisa is typically faster and more convenient than applying for a visa in person at a German embassy or consulate.
  • You should apply for a Germany eVisa at least two weeks before your intended travel date to allow for processing time.
  • After your eVisa application is approved, you will receive an electronic visa that you can print and carry with you when you travel to Germany.
  • Note that not all countries are eligible for the Germany eVisa, so check if your country is eligible before applying.
  • You should also ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and have all the required supporting documents before submitting your eVisa application.
  • If you encounter any issues during the eVisa application process, you can contact the German embassy or consulate in your home country for assistance.

Applying for a Germany Visa at an Embassy or Consulate: The Process Explained

Here are the key points you need to know when applying for a Germany visa at an embassy or consulate:

  • You need to book an appointment to submit your visa application at the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
  • You will need to complete a paper visa application form and provide supporting documents, such as your passport, proof of travel insurance, flight reservation, and accommodation booking.
  • You will also need to pay the visa fee in cash or by debit or credit card, depending on the embassy or consulate's payment policies.
  • The processing time for a Germany visa application can vary depending on the type of visa and the embassy or consulate's workload. It is advisable to apply for your visa at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date.
  • If your application is approved, you will be notified by the embassy or consulate and asked to collect your passport with the visa from the embassy or consulate.
  • If your application is rejected, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the rejection.
  • If you encounter any issues during the visa application process, you can contact the embassy or consulate for assistance.

How Long Does it Take to Process a Germany Visa?

The processing time for a Germany visa depends on several factors, including the type of visa, the applicant's nationality.

  • Normal processing time: The average processing time for a Germany visa is 10-15 working days.
  • Rush processing time: If you need your visa application to be processed faster than normal, you can opt for the Rush service. The estimated processing time for a Rush service is 2-3 working days.
  • Super Rush processing time: If you need your visa application to be processed urgently, you can choose the Super Rush service. The estimated processing time for Super Rush is 24 hours.

It's always best to apply for a visa well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for any unforeseen delays in processing.

Urgent Germany Visa Application: What You Need to Know

To apply for an urgent Germany visa, first check if your reason for travel falls under the "urgent reasons for travel" category. Contact the German embassy or consulate in your country to schedule an appointment for an expedited visa application. Provide all necessary documents and proof of your urgent reason for travel. Keep in mind that processing time may still take a few days, so apply well in advance.

Countries Eligible for Germany eVisa: Who Can Apply?

At the moment, the list of countries that are eligible for the Germany eVisa has not been released yet. It's important to note that the eVisa system is still in its pilot phase and is only available for a limited number of countries. Once the list of eligible countries is released, it will be updated and made available on the eVisa website. It's always best to check the eligibility criteria and requirements for a Germany visa before starting the application process.

Germany Visa Policy Map

 
Germany

 
Eligible Countries/Nationalities for e-visa/visa on arrival

 
Countries/Nationalities Required Regular/Paper Visa for travelling to

 
Visa Exempt Countries/Nationalities for travelling to
German visa policy map.

Regular visasAll Countries / Nationalities that required regular visa for Germany

If you are planning to visit Germany, it's important to know that an eVisa is not available for this country. Instead, you will need to apply for a visa through the German embassy or consulate in your home country. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your visit, such as for tourism, business, or study.

Germany Visa Cost: How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a Germany Visa?

The Germany visa fee varies depending on several factors, including the type of visa you are applying for, your country of origin, and the processing time you choose. It is recommended that you use the fee tool provided by the above to calculate the exact amount you will need to pay.

Benefits of using the fee tool:

  • Helps you avoid underpayment or overpayment of visa fees
  • Provides transparency in the visa application process
  • Allows you to plan your budget for the visa application process
  • Saves time by giving you an accurate estimate of the visa fee

Using the fee tool is straightforward and easy. Simply input the necessary details, such as your visa type and processing time, and the tool will calculate the exact amount you need to pay. It is important to note that the visa fee is non-refundable, so it is crucial to calculate the correct amount before submitting your application. By using the fee tool, you can ensure that your visa application process runs smoothly and without any financial hiccups.

Germany e-Visa or Sticker-Visa: Which Should You Choose?

Here are some factors to consider when choosing between a Germany e-Visa and a sticker-visa:

Germany e-Visa:

  • Offers a faster and more convenient application process, as you can complete the application online and don't need to visit an embassy or consulate in person.
  • Is only available for certain types of short-stay visas, such as tourist, business, and medical visas.
  • Can only be used for single or multiple entries with a maximum stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Requires you to print out the electronic visa and carry it with you when you travel to Germany.
  • Is generally recommended if you meet the eligibility criteria and your country is eligible for the e-Visa.

Sticker-Visa:

  • Requires you to visit the German embassy or consulate in person to submit your application and provide biometric data, such as fingerprints.
  • Is available for all types of visas, including short-stay and long-stay visas.
  • Can be used for single or multiple entries with a longer maximum stay period.
  • Is placed as a sticker in your passport, which you will need to carry with you when you travel to Germany.

If you do not meet the eligibility criteria for an e-Visa or your country is not eligible for the e-Visa, or if you need a visa for a longer stay in Germany.

Ultimately, the choice between an e-Visa and a sticker-visa depends on your individual circumstances and travel plans.

Germany Work Visa: Everything You Need to Know

A Germany work visa is required for non-EU citizens who want to work in Germany. To be eligible for a work visa, you will need to have a job offer from a German employer and meet certain qualifications and requirements, such as having a university degree or relevant work experience. 

The application process for a work visa can take several weeks, and you will need to provide supporting documents such as your passport, employment contract, and proof of qualifications. Once approved, you will be issued a residence permit that allows you to live and work in Germany for a specific period of time.

What to Do if Your Germany Visa Has Expired?

If your Germany visa has expired and you are still in Germany, you need to take immediate action to avoid any legal consequences. Here are the steps you should take:

Contact the German authorities: If you are in Germany and your visa has expired, you should contact the local immigration authorities immediately. Explain your situation and ask for their advice on what you should do next.

Apply for an extension: In some cases, you may be able to apply for an extension of your visa. You will need to provide a valid reason for the extension, such as a medical emergency or a delayed flight. If your application is approved, you will be given a new visa with a new expiration date.

Leave Germany and reapply: If you cannot extend your visa and you need to stay in Germany, you will need to leave the country and reapply for a new visa from your home country or another country where you are legally allowed to stay. Make sure to follow the proper visa application process and provide all necessary documents.

Seek legal advice: If you are facing legal consequences due to an expired visa, it's important to seek legal advice from a qualified immigration lawyer.

Remember that it's always best to apply for a visa extension or a new visa well in advance of the expiration date to avoid any complications or legal issues.

Germany Visa Extension

If you have a valid reason, you can extend your German visa. Some of the compelling reasons that can justify the extension are as follows:

Force majeure: This refers to any unforeseeable circumstance that is beyond your control, such as a natural disaster like an earthquake, a storm, or any other events that prevent you from returning to your home country.

Personal reasons: In some cases, you may need to extend your visa due to unexpected business or family-related issues that require your presence in Germany.

Humanitarian reasons: If you or a close family member suddenly falls ill, you may need to extend your visa to take care of them or receive medical treatment in Germany.

Late entry: If you entered Germany after your visa was issued and did not utilize the entire duration of your visa, you may be able to extend it to make up for the lost time.

Keep in mind that your reasons for extending your visa must be compelling and well-documented. You will need to provide evidence to support your case when applying for an extension. It is advisable to start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time for processing.

How Do I Extend a Germany Visa?

If you wish to extend your stay in Germany, you will need to submit an application for a visa extension at the Foreigner's Office in Berlin, Keplerstr (Ausländerbehörde). To complete the application process, you will need to gather the following documents:

Your valid passport: This document serves as your primary identification and must have a valid expiration date. 

Your valid visa: You must provide your current visa to show that you are eligible for an extension. 

Germany visa extension form: You need to fill out this form accurately and completely, providing all the required information.

Proof of income: You must provide evidence that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your extended stay in Germany.

Health insurance: You must provide proof of valid health insurance coverage that meets the requirements set by the German authorities.

Any other documents related to your visa type: You may need to provide additional documents depending on the type of visa you hold.

Please note that you need to schedule an appointment by email with the Foreigner's Office before visiting them. If your application is successful, your visa will be extended on the same day. It is advisable to start the application process well in advance of your current visa's expiration date to avoid any potential problems.

FAQs about German eVisa

 For long-stay, employment, or other visa inquiries, please reach out to the following embassies