The visa application process involves several steps. To make things easier for you, we are providing an overview of the entire procedure.
Step 1: Checking the required conditions.
Before applying for a visa, you must check if you meet the basic requirements for obtaining a residence permit (Article 5, paragraph 1 of the Residence Act - AufenthG):
- Proof of financial means: During the visa process, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself. This can be done in various ways: depending on the reason for your stay in Germany, you can provide proof such as your future salary, a sponsorship declaration, or a blocked account with a minimum required amount. .
- Proof of identity and nationality: You must prove that your identity and nationality are not in question. Generally, this requirement is met by presenting a valid passport when applying for the visa.
- No grounds for expulsion: There must be no reason for your expulsion. This involves verifying whether, after your entry into Germany, there could be a potential threat to public security and order. The information you provided during the security investigation and in the visa application may, for example, indicate grounds for expulsion.
- Passport requirement: As a national of a third country, you can generally enter Germany only if you possess a valid passport or a recognized passport substitute. The competent German representation abroad will inform you about the passport validity requirements.
In addition to the mandatory requirements for obtaining a residence permit, you must also inform yourself about the specific requirements that apply to your specific reason for entry and stay, depending on whether you wish to work, study, or undertake vocational training in Germany. You will find the required conditions for coming to Germany in the section "Different types of visas."
Step 2: Request an appointment with the German embassy or consulate
If you meet all the conditions for obtaining a visa, you must prepare the necessary documents for the visa application. You will typically find the list of required documents on the website of the German embassy or consulate in your country of residence. At the same time, you should also make an appointment to submit your visa application.
Our world map shows which German embassy or consulate you should contact for your visa application.
Step 3: Visa application in the country of residence
You must submit your visa application to the German embassy or consulate in your country. Please note that you must apply for a visa that matches the purpose of your stay in Germany. For example, if you intend to come to Germany for work, a work visa is required. This is the only way to obtain a residence permit in Germany after your visa expires.
For the visa application, you will need the appropriate visa application form.
The fee for an entry visa to Germany is 75 euros for all types of visas issued for long-term stays. This fee can generally be paid at the German embassy or consulate in the local currency. Please note that the fee is non-refundable if the visa application is rejected.