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German Visa: Application Process, Requirements and Cost for Indians

Last Update: 20-11-2024

Winter view of Neuschwanstein Castle amidst snowy mountains.

⚡Quick Summary

German visa processing time

Up to 15 days

Germany visa fees from India

Euro 90 (Above 12 years).

Germany visa validity period

90 days within 180-day period

How to apply for German visa?

  1. Apply online through Teleport in under minutes
  2. Apply offline through VFS Global visa application centres.

German visa requirements

  1. Original Passport
  2. Copy of Passport Pages
  3. Visa Application Form
  4. Passport-sized Photograph
  5. Cover Letter
  6. Travel Medical Insurance - Euro 30,000
  7. Appointment Slip
  8. Flight tickets and Hotel Bookings
  9. Bank Statement (last 3 months)
  10. Income tax return (last 2 years)

Table of Contents


  1. Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa for Germany?
  2. Germany Visa Requirements
  3. How to Apply Visa for Germany from India​?
  4. Locations Available in India for German Visa Application
  5. German Visa Processing Time
  6. Germany Visa Fees
  7. Germany Visa Valdiity Period
  8. FAQs

Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa for Germany?

Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to travel to Germany. For short visits (up to 90 days), they will typically need a Schengen visa. This visa allows travel within the Schengen Area, which includes Germany and several other European countries. The application process involves submitting necessary documents, paying a fee, and attending an appointment at the German consulate or embassy. For longer stays or specific purposes like work or study, a different type of visa may be required.

Germany Visa Requirements

Following are the documents required for German visa application:

  1. Germany Visa Application Form: Complete the form online, print it, and ensure it's fully filled out and signed.
  2. Original Passport: Must be issued within the last 10 years, with at least 3 months’ validity beyond your return date, 2 empty pages, and no observations on the front.
  3. Passport Copy: Provide a copy of the biometric and address pages of your passport.
  4. Photograph: Recent (within 6 months), 35x45mm, 70-80% face coverage, with a white background.
  5. Cover Letter: State your travel purpose and the duration of your stay.
  6. Travel Itinerary: Provide your intended travel details, either via a travel agency certificate or a detailed itinerary.
  7. Proof of Accommodation: Submit proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations, a rental agreement, or a sponsorship letter from a family member or friend.
  8. Flight Reservation: Provide proof of flight reservation for your intended travel.
  9. Travel Medical Insurance: Coverage of a minimum of EUR 30,000 for medical expenses during your stay.
  10. 3 Months Bank Statement: Signed and stamped by the bank, showing a minimum bank balance of INR 3,00,000.
  11. Income Tax Return: Provide your personal income tax returns for the previous two financial years.

How to Apply Visa for Germany from India​?

Apply for Germany Tourist Visa from India through Teleport

Here is how you can get a Schengen visa Germany through Teleport:


  1. Visit Teleport's Germany visa website and click on ‘Start your Application’.
  2. Enter your travel and passport details.
  3. Submit your documents to Teleport. Teleport’s relationship manager will carefully review and organize all the necessary documents for your Germany tourist visa application.
  4. Teleport's dedicated relationship manager will set up an appointment for you at the VFS Appointment Centre as per your preferred location and timings.
  5. Attend your appointed slot at the nearby VFS Visa Application Centre. There, you'll submit biometrics and the required documents.
  6. Pay our service fees. Embassy fees must be paid at the visa application centre only.

The documents are sent from VFS to the consulate for review. Once the consulate makes a decision, they send the documents back to VFS. 


Afterward, you can choose to have your passport delivered to your location or pick it up in person from the VFS visa centre. 

Apply for German Schengen Visa at VFS Global Application Centres in India

  1. Determine Your Visa Type: Identify the appropriate visa for your trip, check eligibility, required documents, processing times, and fees.
  2. Prepare Documents: Gather the necessary documents, ensuring photos meet biometric requirements (available at Visa Centres).
  3. Fill out Application Form: Complete the online application (VIDEX format), print, sign, and collect the necessary documents. If your fingerprints are recorded in the last 59 months, you can authorize someone to submit your application.
  4. Schedule Appointment: Book an appointment for visa submission and biometric data collection. You’ll receive a confirmation email.
  5. Pay Fees: Pay the visa fee at the Visa Application Centre during your appointment, either in cash or by card (Visa, Rupay, Mastercard).
  6. Visit the Visa Application Centre: Submit your visa application and documents at any VFS Global Visa Centre, even if it’s not your residence location.
  7. Track Your Application: Use the VFS online tracking tool with your reference number and date of birth.
  8. Collect Your Visa: Once processed, collect your passport and documents from the Visa Centre or opt for courier delivery (additional fee). Third-party collections are allowed for immediate family or authorized representatives.

Locations Available in India for German Visa Application

Visa Application CentreLocation

New Delhi

Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Chandigarh, NCT of Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, including Minicoy and Amini.

Mumbai

Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Daman and Diu.

Kolkata

West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura.

Bangalore

Karnataka and Kerala.

Chennai

Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Pondicherry.

German Visa Processing Time

The German visa processing time typically takes 15 to 20 calendar days from the date of your application submission. However, processing times can vary depending on several factors, including the visa category, the volume of applications, and the specific consulate or Visa Application Centre. It is recommended to begin your application at least 45 working days before your planned departure.

Germany Visa Fees

Following are the visa cost for Germany from India:

Visa TypeFee TypeAmount

Schengen Visa short-term

VFS service fees

INR 1,722/-

-

Embassy Fees (between 0 to 6 years)

No Fee

-

Embassy Fees (between 6 to 11 years)

Euro 45 (INR 4,100)

-

Embassy Fees (Above 12 years)

Euro 90 (INR 8,200)

Long-term visa

VFS service fees

INR 912/-

-

Embassy Fees (18+ years)

Euro 75 (INR 6,800)

-

Embassy Fees (Under 18 years)

Euro 37.50 (INR 3,400)

Germany Visa Valdiity Period

The validity period of a Germany visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for:

  1. Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) Validity: Typically up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This is for tourism, business, or family visits within Germany and other Schengen countries.
  2. Long-Stay National Visa (Type D) Validity: Typically issued for up to 1 year and can be extended for longer periods based on the purpose (e.g., work, study, or family reunification).
  3. Multiple Entry Schengen Visa Validity: This can be issued for up to 5 years, but you can stay a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period.

The actual validity will depend on the consulate's assessment of your application and the documents provided.

Summing it up

In conclusion, using the information provided in this guide, obtaining a Germany visa can be a straightforward process. Ensure you fulfil the specific requirements for your travel purpose, and get ready to explore Germany's rich culture and breath taking landscapes.


Wishing you safe travels and an enjoyable journey in Germany!


For a smooth Germany visa application experience, consider applying with Teleport. Our user-friendly platform simplifies the application process, ensuring your submission meets all necessary criteria.

FAQs

How long does it take for a German visa to be approved?

German visa processing usually takes about 15 days. However, during peak seasons or if additional documents are needed, it may take longer. It's recommended to apply at least 15 days before your travel.

How long does a German visa last?

The validity of a German visa depends on the type. A short-stay Schengen visa typically lasts up to 90 days within a 180-day period. A long-stay national visa can be valid for up to 1 year and may be extended.

How can I get a visa from India to Germany?

To get a visa from India to Germany, you must submit your application at the German Consulate or a Visa Application Centre. You'll need to fill out an application form, submit required documents, and attend an interview if necessary. Fees and biometric data will also be collected.

How much is the visa fee for Germany?

The visa fee for a short-stay Schengen visa for Germany is Euro 90 (approximately ₹8,200 for Indian applicants). For a long-term national visa, the fee is INR 6,800.

Is travel insurance mandatory for a Germany visa?

Yes, a travel insurance with minimum coverage of Euro 30,000 in travel insurance is mandatory when applying for a Germany visa.

What are the requirements to get a German visa?

Requirements for a German visa include:

  1. A valid passport with at least 2 empty pages and 3 months' validity beyond your return date.
  2. Visa application form (completed online).
  3. Recent passport-sized photograph meeting biometric standards.
  4. Travel itinerary and proof of accommodation.
  5. Travel medical insurance with coverage of at least €30,000.
  6. Bank statement showing sufficient funds, typically INR 3,00,000.
  7. Income tax returns for the last two years.
How much bank balance is required for a Germany visa?

A minimum bank balance of INR 3,00,000 is required for a Germany visa. Your bank statement should be signed and stamped by your bank and dated within the last 15 days of your visa appointment.

Can I visit other Schengen states with my visa issued by the German Consulate?

Yes, you can. Under the Schengen agreement, Schengen visas are also valid for all the Schengen countries. However, it's important to note that when applying for a Schengen visa, you should apply at the consulate of the country where you plan to spend the majority of your trip. If you intend to visit multiple countries with an equal duration of stay and no primary destination, you should apply at the consulate of the country that serves as your first point of entry. While technically, a longer duration Schengen visa can be used for travel to other Schengen countries, it's preferable to use it for its intended purpose, especially after travel has occurred in the issuing country.

Can I work in Germany with a tourist visa?

No, it is not permissible to work officially or undertake any employment-related activities while holding a tourist visa in Germany. If you intend to work or pursue an internship, you must apply for the relevant visa or work permit to comply with the country's regulations.

Is visa on arrival for Indians in Germany?

No, Indian citizens are not eligible for visa on arrival in Germany. You must apply for a visa before traveling.

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