Germany Visas

Written by Anastasiia Lushyna Moderated by Oleksandra Dosii

Anastasiia Lushyna

Anastasiia is a content creator, writer, and motorcycle traveler with experience living in 4 different countries. She has been exploring the world and its cultural diversity since 2010.

Oleksandra Dosii

Oleksandra is a dedicated marketer with a passion for growing HR-tech products. She believes content marketing is about delivering high-quality content that provides value—not just generating leads. Since 2016, Oleksandra has been involved in tech talent relocation.

Last update: July 19, 2024

Next update: Scheduled for February 1, 2025

Germany, renowned for its economy and rich cultural heritage, is a popular destination for those seeking to start a new chapter in their lives. If you're considering a move to Germany, understanding the German visa options and requirements is crucial for a smooth transition.

When do you need a visa for Germany?

For short stays in Germany, typically within 90 to 180 days, you may not need a visa at all, depending on your nationality. Citizens of Australia, Canada, Japan, the USA, and many other countries can enter Germany for tourism, business, or family visits without a visa. They enjoy the privilege of visa-free travel under the Schengen Agreement, which allows them free movement within the Schengen Area.

For those who require a visa for short stays, the Schengen Visa is the most common type. This visa not only allows you to travel to Germany but also grants access to other Schengen countries. It’s typically required for tourists, business travellers, and those visiting family or friends.

Germany visa requirements

The documents required to apply for a German visa vary depending on the type of visa. However, here are the most common documents and application requirements:

• Visa application form: Completed and signed application form.
• Passport: Valid passport with at least two blank pages, valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay.
• Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs that meet specific requirements.
• Health insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage valid in Germany for the entire duration of stay.
• Proof of financial means: Evidence that you can support yourself financially during your stay, such as bank statements or sponsorship letters.

Germany visa application process

Here is the general outline to apply for a Germany visa:

1. Determine the type of visa: Establish the specific visa type you need based on the purpose of your trip (tourism, business, education, employment, etc.).
2. Collect the required documents: Gather all the necessary documents listed in the visa requirements. Ensure everything is up-to-date and meets the specified criteria.
3. Complete the application form: Fill out the visa application form accurately and completely. The form is usually available on the official website of the German embassy or consulate in your country.
4. Schedule an appointment: Book an appointment with the German embassy or consulate. In some countries, appointments can be scheduled online, while others may require a phone call or in-person visit.
5. Attend the appointment: Attend your scheduled appointment with all your documents. Be prepared for an interview where you may be asked about your travel plans and purpose of travel.
6. Pay the visa fee: Pay the non-refundable visa application fee. The amount varies depending on the type of visa and your nationality.
7. Submit biometrics: Provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph), if required.
8. Wait for processing: Once you have submitted your application, the embassy or consulate will process it. Processing times can vary, so apply well ahead of your planned travel date.
9. Receive a notification: You will be notified once your visa is ready. This may be by email, phone, or through the visa application centre tracking system.
10. Pick up your visa: If your application is approved, you can pick up your visa at the embassy, consulate, or visa application centre. Double-check that all information on the visa sticker is correct.
     

Always check the website of the German embassy or consulate in your country for specific procedures and requirements, as they may vary slightly from one location to another.

Germany visa fees

Germany visa application fees vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant's nationality. Here is a general overview of the most common visa fees:

Schengen visa (short-stay visa, up to 90 days)

• Standard fee: €90 (since June 2024)
• Reduced fees:
  • Children aged 6 to 12: €45
  • Nationals of Armenia and Azerbaijan: €35
  • Nationals of Serbia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova, Albania, Ukraine and Georgia who still require a visa (non-biometric passport holders): €35

National visa (long-stay visa, more than 90 days)

• Standard fee: €75
• Reduced fees:
  • Minors: €37.50 (half the regular rate)

Both Schengen visas and national visas allow for fee waivers in certain cases.

Notes:

• Visa fees are generally non-refundable, even if the visa application is rejected.
• Additional service fees may apply if you apply through a visa application center.

For the most accurate and specific information, itʼs best to check with the German consulate or embassy where you plan to submit your application, as fees and procedures can vary slightly by location.

How to get a permanent residence permit in Germany?

To obtain a permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) in Germany, applicants typically must have lived in the country for at least five years with a valid residence permit, demonstrate financial self-sufficiency, and show sufficient German language skills (B1 level). They must also contribute to the statutory pension scheme for at least 60 months, have adequate health insurance, and pass a basic knowledge test on German law and society. 

Exceptions apply for skilled workers, graduates of German universities, and spouses of German citizens, who may qualify under shorter residency periods.

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How to get German citizenship?

To obtain German citizenship, you can pursue naturalization or acquire it by descent.

Citizenship by naturalization:

As of June 27, 2024, the residency requirement for naturalization is five years, reduced to three years for individuals demonstrating exceptional integration efforts, such as advanced German language skills, active community involvement, or professional achievements. Applicants must also:

• Demonstrate B1 proficiency in the German language.
• Pass a citizenship test covering German laws, society, and history.
• Declare loyalty to the German Constitution.
• Prove financial self-sufficiency without reliance on state assistance (e.g., unemployment benefits).
• Have no serious criminal convictions.

Germany now permits dual citizenship, allowing naturalized citizens to retain their original nationality.

Citizenship by descent:

Children born to a German parent typically acquire citizenship at birth, regardless of the place of birth. For children born abroad to German parents after December 31, 1999, the German parent must have been born in Germany or registered the child's birth with German authorities within one year.

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