APPLICATION PROCESS
Application Process for Germany Visa:
Obtaining a German visa can take multiple steps including the identification of the required papers and participating in an interview at German embassies or consulates. Allow me to elaborate on different phases in the application process one by one.
What you can Apply for a Visa to Germany?
The first step is to check which type of visa you need for travel for Germany. After you informed about the category of visa then you follow the following steps:
- Complete the German Visa Application Form
- Prepare Your Documents
- Schedule an Appointment
- Attend Your Visa Interview
- Provide Biometric Information
- Pay the Application Fee
- Receive Your German Visa
Complete the German Visa Application Form
The starting step in the application process is to complete the form. You can download it easily from the website of German embassy. Fill the form online if option is given. Be sure to:
- Provide accurate and complete information.
- Double-check for any errors, as inaccuracies can delay your application.
- Sign the form at the end.
For either visa form, you have to fill in your personal details and the required information online. You can do this by using VIDEX, which is an online platform designed to make the application process easier for you and for the visa office. Once you complete the online form, you have to print it and sign it so you can take it with you when you go to the embassy or consulate.
Get Your Documents Ready
For the application to proceed smoothly, gather all required documents based on your visa type. Common documents include:
- A valid passport
- Bio metric passport photos
- Proof of travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
- Flight booking
- Proof of financial means
- Proof of accommodation
Any additional documents specific to your visa type, like employment letters or enrollment certificates for students
Having these documents prepared beforehand will save time and help prevent delays.
These are only the main requirements, for each visa type you need some specific documents such as work contract, school records, family certificate, and so on. See the full list of documents.
Make an Appointment at an Embassy/Consulate
First you make sure that you appointment is fixed with the Germany consulate. Most of time online appointment occurs for booking. But during maximum travel seasons you want to book appointment in advance. When scheduling, ensure:
- You have all required documents ready for submission on the day of the appointment.
- You’ve reviewed any specific embassy guidelines for your country.
You can look here for a visa representative authority.
Go to the Visa Interview
On the day of your appointment you may be require an interview in some cases. You should be prepared to discuss the purpose of your visit. The consular officer check your documents and ask questions about your travel plans. Tips for the interview:
- Dress professionally and arrive on time.
- Be prepared to discuss your travel purpose and plans.
- Answer all questions honestly and confidently.
Provide Your Bio metric Information
You need to provide bio metric information that includes the fingerprints and a digital photo during the application process. This is usually done at the embassy or consulate and is required for security purposes. Bio metric data is typically valid for a few years, so if you’ve applied for a Schengen visa recently, you may not need to repeat this step.
Pay the Visa Application Fee
Visa fees depends on the type of visa and also depend on your age. You should pay the fees for a visa is almost €80 for adults and €40 for children. Check the current fee and payment methods with the foreign officer or embassy sites. The payment method can ask by consulate and you check in advance whether they accept cash, credit card and other payment forms. Take your payment receipt because it can be used during your application process.
Nevertheless, when you visit the embassy/consulate for your interview your visa fee has to be paid. The usual fee for a short-term visa is €90, but the cost is liable to change depending on what type of German visa you are applying for.
Get Your German Visa
Once you have completed all the steps then you wait for your visa application to be processed. Visa processing times may change for time to time so this is the best way for you to apply in advance if you want to visit in Germany for any purpose. The expected processing time is about 15 days but it can take longer. When your visa is approved then you take your passport with the visa, book a flight and enter in Germany and enjoy your trip.