Visa types
Tourist Schengen visa
A short-stay visa for exploring Germany or a European trip where Germany is the main destination.
Business and trade fair visa
For trade fairs, meetings and business talks in Germany; an invitation from the host company or fair registration is central.
Visiting family or friends
For visiting relatives or friends in Germany; an invitation letter and the host's ID or residence permit are requested.
Student (national) visa
A national type D visa for university study or long language courses, requiring an admission letter and proof of funding.
Typical documents
- Valid passport and copies of visas in previous passports
- Completed and signed application form
- Biometric passport photo
- Travel medical insurance valid across the Schengen area
- Flight reservation and proof of accommodation
- Recent bank statements
- Employer letter, payslips and SGK service record
- For business owners: tax registration and trade registry gazette
- For business trips: invitation from the German company or trade fair registration
- For family visits: invitation letter and the host's ID or residence permit
Document lists vary by applicant and by consulate; the consulate's current official list is always the one that counts.
How to apply
- 1
Confirm that Germany is your main destination and choose the right visa category.
- 2
Review the German missions' current document list for your purpose of travel.
- 3
Complete the application form and prepare your documents in the listed order.
- 4
Book an appointment at the authorised visa application centre.
- 5
Submit your documents and give your biometric data at the appointment.
- 6
Track your application and collect your passport once a decision is made.
Practical tips
- Demand for appointments rises around major trade fairs, so plan your application as soon as you know the dates.
- A business invitation should state the purpose, the dates and who is covering the costs.
- For university study in Germany, funding is usually shown through a blocked account (Sperrkonto); plan this early.
- National visas follow a different procedure from Schengen visas; do not plan a long stay on a short-stay visa.