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Visa information

05.05.2025 - Article

Most third country nationals (non-EU/non-EFTA states) require a visa to enter Germany. Mainly, there are two different types of visas. How long you intend to stay determines the visa type.

Important Information:

  • The previously voluntary remonstration procedure will be abolished worldwide from July 1, 2025 in order to be able to process more visa applications overall and shorten waiting times for visa decisions.
  • If your visa application is rejected after July 1, 2025, please refrain from submitting remonstrations to the Embassy. The Embassy will no longer process such remonstrations.
  • You can take legal action against a rejection of your visa application by filing a complaint with the Administrative Court of Berlin (Germany). This must be done in German and involves court costs.
  • The following applies more than ever: Reduce the risk of a rejection by submitting the required documents in full from the outset. If the visa office requests additional documents, please submit them in good time.
  • Of course, you always have the option of submitting a new visa application even after a rejection.

Which visa type do I need for Germany - a Schengen visa or a national visa?

If you want to travel to Germany for a period of up to 90 days – for a visit, as a tourist, on business, or for medical treatment, etc. – you will need a Schengen Visa.

If you want to stay in Germany for more than three months - to study, work, reunite with your family, etc. - you will need a National Visa.

If you are still unsure, which visa type you need, please use the visa navigator to find out.

For more information about the application process, the fees and documents to submit, please click on the visa type below.

The EU has abolished the visa requirement for citizens of some countries. For more information please have a look here.

Schengen Visa / Short Stay Visa

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National Visa (long-term stay of more than 90 days)

National visas are issued for long-term stays for a particular purpose. Usually issued for 90 days, such visas may be issued for up to a year in certain cases. After entering Germany, visa holders…

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