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Essential Guidelines: How to Apply for a Germany Tourist Visa

Last Update: 09-02-2024

Winter view of Neuschwanstein Castle amidst snowy mountains.

⚡Quick Summary

Germany Tourist Visa for Indians

Germany Tourist Visa Required

Is a visa required for Germany?

Yes, all Indian passport holders require a visa to visit Germany.

Germany Tourist Visa Processing Time

Germany Tourist Visa Processing time

15 to 21 Working Days

Germany Tourist Visa Fees

Germany Tourist Visa Fees

  1. VFS Appointment fees: Euro 20 (INR 1,762/-)
  2. Embassy fees: Euro 80 (INR 7,100/-)
Germany Visa Validity

Germany Visa Validity

180 Days

Germany Visa Stay Duration

Germany Visa Stay Duration

90 Days

How to apply for a Germany visa

How to apply for a Germany visa

  1. Apply through Teleport in under 2 minutes
  2. Apply through VFS Global website.
Documents Required for Germany visa

Documents required for Germany visa

  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)
Germany Offer Visa on Arrival

Does Germany offer visas on arrival?

Germany does not offer visas on arrival to Indians. You need to have an approved visa prior to your departure.

German visa a Schengen visa

Is my German visa a Schengen visa?

Yes, your Germany visa is a Schengen visa. A Schengen visa is a short-term visa that allows you to travel to and within all 27 Schengen countries, including Germany.

Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa to Visit Germany?

Yes, Indian citizens typically need a Schengen visa to visit Germany for tourism. The German visa is stamped on your passport and allows you to stay in Germany for 90 days or more depending on the visa type you have applied for.

Table of Contents


  1. Introduction
  2. When Should I Apply For A Germany Schengen Visa?
  3. Types of Germany Visas for Indians
  4. How to Apply for a Germany Visa for Indians?
  5. Germany Tourist Visa Requirements for Indians
  6. What is the Germany Tourist Visa Processing Time for Indians?
  7. Fees For Germany Visa From India
  8. What is the Validity of a Germany Tourist Visa for Indians?
  9. How to Check the Status of a Germany Visa Application for Indians?
  10. Do I Need a Germany Airport Transit Visa as an Indian?
  11. What are the Reasons for Germany Visa Rejection in India?
  12. What to do if My Germany Tourist Visa Gets Rejected?
  13. Do Indian Citizens Need Travel Insurance for a Germany Visa?
  14. What to Do After Reaching Germany Airport?
  15. Conclusion
  16. FAQs

Introduction

Exploring the vibrant culture of Germany requires careful planning, and obtaining a tourist visa is a key step for Indian travellers. Our guide simplifies the process, covering essential details such as Germany tourist visa requirements, application procedures through Teleport or VFS Global, and necessary documents.

Whether you're applying for a short-stay, or long-stay visa, we break down the steps for a hassle-free experience. If you have questions or need assistance, our dedicated team is ready to help.

Contact us at 073148 52914 or reach us on WhatsApp

Prepare for a smooth journey to Germany – Safe Travels!✈️

Can Indians Get a Germany Visa on Arrival?

Germany does not offer visas on arrival for Indian citizens. To visit Germany, Indian citizens must apply for and obtain a visa in advance through a pre-approval process.

When Should I Apply For A Germany Schengen Visa?

Applying for a Schengen Visa at a Germany Diplomatic Mission:

  1. Single Country Visit: Apply at the German consulate if you're visiting only Germany as your single Schengen country and it's your first entry point.
  2. Visiting Multiple Countries: If visiting several Schengen countries consider applying for a Germany visa if you intend to spend the maximum duration of your trip in Germany. If visiting several Schengen countries with a similar number of days at each one (e.g., tourism in France, Germany, and Switzerland), apply at the consulate of your first entry country—Germany, in this case.
  3. Main Purpose of Visit: Your main purpose determines where you apply. If it's unclear and you're visiting multiple countries, submit your application to the embassy or consulate of your first entry point to the Schengen area. Example: For instance, if your main purpose is attending a conference in Germany while touring multiple countries, apply at the German consulate.
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Teleport’s Expert Tip

For a hassle-free processing experience, it's recommended to begin your application at least 45 working days before your planned departure. It's wise to start the process well in advance but no more than 6 months before your intended entry into the Schengen states to avoid any issues with your travel dates.

Types of Germany Visas for Indians

Schengen visa: If your stay in Germany is up to 90 days, apply for a Schengen visa, often called "short-term visas". Issued as a "C" visa for various purposes including tourism, medical treatment, business, culture, sports, visits, official or political matters, study, internship, scientific research, employment, seasonal employment, training, and more.

National Visa: If your intended stay in Germany exceeds 90 days, apply for a German National visa, commonly known as "long-term visas" or "D visas. The national visa is designed for individuals planning a long-term stay in Germany, exceeding 90 days, for a specific legally-defined purpose. Typically, it is granted for a specified duration, which may extend up to one year in certain situations. After arriving in Germany, you will need to apply for a residence permit, which corresponds to the purpose of your stay.

Work Visa: This visa enables skilled foreign individuals with vocational training or a recognized university degree to visit Germany for a maximum of six months. During this period, they can search for employment matching their qualifications. If successful in securing a job within six months, there's no need to leave; they can apply for the necessary residence permit at the Immigration Office. While actively seeking employment, individuals are restricted from regular employment, except for a trial period of up to 10 hours per week.

Student Visa: If accepted by a German university (including a preparatory language course) or a preparatory college (Studienkolleg), you can apply for a study visa in Germany. It's advisable to secure admission from the university at the earliest. While studying, you can take up part-time student jobs, allowing you to work for up to 20 hours per week to support your expenses.

Research Visa: For researchers from non-EU countries, the following criteria apply:

  • Hold a doctoral degree or possess a relevant degree from a German or foreign university granting access to doctoral programs.
  • Be selected by a research institution and granted entry into a Member State.
  • Engage in a research activity typically requiring such an advanced degree.

This category also includes doctoral students enrolled at a foreign university who wish to visit Germany for research purposes.

Family Reunion Visa: You need this visa, specifically a residence permit, in the following cases:

  • If you're marrying or planning to marry a German citizen.
  • If you're a parent of a German minor child and seeking permanent residency in Germany.

After submitting all required documents, your application goes to the Immigration Office at your intended residence in Germany. Processing usually takes up to 12 weeks, but additional documents can affect this time. Once approved, the Embassy/Consulate issues a national visa for the first 90 days. The Immigration Office grants a final residence permit upon arrival for a more extended stay. The family reunion visa also provides entitlement.

Airport Transit Visa: If you stay within the international airport during your layover in Germany and your final destination is not in a Schengen country, you won't need a transit visa.

But, if you have to go into the Schengen area for any reason, like changing terminals or if your destination is in a Schengen country, you might need a visa. Be sure to plan for this situation.

There are, however, exceptions to this requirement:

  • Individuals holding valid visas and national residence permits from EU and Schengen countries.
  • Individuals with certain national residence permits from specific countries, including Andorra, Japan, Canada, San Marino, and the United States of America.
  • Those who hold valid visas from the EEA countries (the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland), as well as visas issued by Japan, Canada, and the United States of America.

How to Apply for a Germany Visa for Indians?

Apply for Germany Visa with Teleport

Getting your Germany visa for Indians is now easy and hassle-free with Teleport. Follow these simple steps for a smooth tourist visa application:

  • Step 1: Start Your Application: Go to Teleport's Germany Application website and click on ‘Start your Application’.
  • Step 2: Fill in your details and Pay: Enter your travel and passport details, and make your visa payment through Teleport. Choose either full or partial upfront payment.
  • Step 3: Prepare and Review Documents: Submit your documents to Teleport. Teleport’s relationship manager will carefully review and organize all the necessary documents for your Germany visa application.
  • Step 4: Appointment Booking: Teleport's dedicated relationship manager will set up an appointment for you at the VFS Appointment Centre as per your preferred location and timings.
  • Step 5: Visit the VFS Centre: Attend your appointed slot at the nearby VFS Visa Application Centre. There, you'll submit biometrics and the required documents.

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. 

✅ Teleport’s relationship manager is ready to assist you throughout the entire process for comprehensive support.

Apply at VFS Global Application Centre in India for a Germany Visa

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type

Start by identifying the appropriate visa type for your trip to Germany and ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. Familiarise yourself with the necessary documents, estimated processing times, and relevant fees.  

Step 2: Prepare Documents

Collect the required documents for your visa application, which vary based on your visa category. Ensure that any photos meet biometric requirements. You can usually get these photos at Visa Application Centres, among other places.

Step 3: Fill out Application Form

  • Fill out the online application form, print it, sign it, and gather other necessary documents.
  • Use the VIDEX format for the online application form. A high-quality printout of the barcode is essential.
  • If you can't complete the online form, you can print it and fill it out by hand.
  • If your fingerprints have been collected for a Schengen visa application in India within the last 59 months, you can authorise someone to submit your application. Use the provided authorization letter for the travel agent or representative.

Step 4: Schedule Appointment Book an appointment for submitting your visa application and for biometric data collection, which includes fingerprinting and a photograph. Upon booking, you will receive a confirmation email containing your appointment letter.

Choose the Right Visa Application Centre Based on your Location

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.

Step 5: Pay Your Fees

Once you have made your application, you will need to pay your visa application fee. If you download the application form, print it and bring it to the Visa Application Centre where payment can be made at the time of your appointment. Fees can be paid in cash or by card (Visa, Rupay and Mastercard are acceptable)

Step 6: Visit the Visa Application Centre

For Schengen visa (short-term visa) processing at the German Consulate Mumbai, you have the flexibility to book appointments and submit your Schengen visa applications at any Visa Application Centre operated by VFS Global across India, irrespective of your place of residence.

Please remember to ensure that you bring your visa application form and the necessary documents as outlined in the Germany tourist visa checklist for your specific visa category.

You must personally submit your fully completed visa application form and documents at one of the designated Visa Application Centres, unless otherwise instructed.

Step 7: Track Your Application

If you submitted your application at a VFS Visa Application Centre, you can use the VFS online application tracking tool to check the status of your application. Simply provide the following details:

  1. The reference number issued to you while making the payment at the VFS centre.
  2. Your date of birth.

Step 8: Collect Your Visa

After your visa application has been processed, you have the option to get your documents and passport from the Visa Application Centre. Alternatively, you can opt for a courier service, which involves an additional fee.

Note: Collection of documents or passports by third parties is generally not allowed, with some exceptions:

  • Immediate family members (parents, children, siblings).
  • One member collecting on behalf of the entire group.
  • Persons collecting on behalf of government officials, if duly authorised on official government letterhead.
  • Representatives of companies must provide an authorization letter on company letterhead along with an official ID card.
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Teleport’ s Expert Tip

If you've had a Germany visa in the past 5 years, you can have someone else submit the application on your behalf, as biometrics are not required in this case.

Germany Tourist Visa Requirements for Indians

Mandatory Documents

Schengen Visa Application Form

Complete the form online, print it, and ensure it's fully filled out and signed.

Original Passport

  • Ensure your passport was issued within the last 10 years.
  • 3 months' validity beyond your return date.
  • At least two empty pages to affix visa.
  • No observations on the front page.

Passport Copy

Copy of the biometric and address page of your passport.

Photograph

  • Not older than 6 months
  • Dimensions: 35X45mm
  • 70 to 80% face coverage
  • White background

Cover Letter

Stating your travel purpose and duration

Travel Itinerary

Your intended travel details, either through a travel agency certificate or a detailed itinerary.

Proof of Accommodation

Proof of your accommodation, hotel reservations, a rental agreement, or sponsorship from a family member or friend.

Flight Reservation

Proof of your accommodation, hotel reservations, a rental agreement, or sponsorship from a family member or friend.

Flight Reservation

Provide proof of your flight reservation.

Travel Medical Insurance

Coverage of a minimum of EUR 30,000 in medical expenses.

3 Months Bank Statement Copy

  • Signed and Stamped by the bank.
  • Recommended bank balance of INR 3,00,000/-
  • The statement should be no more than 15 days old on the appointment day.

Income Tax Return

Personal Income Tax Returns for the previous 2 financial years

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Teleport’s Expert Tip

For a smoother Germany visa application, make sure your bank statement is signed and stamped by your bank, and has a minimum balance of INR 3,00,000.

Supporting Documents

If Your Trip is Sponsored

  • Sponsored by an Indian resident: Submit sponsor letter, sponsor's passport copy, and their last 3 months' bank statements.
  • Sponsored by a German/EU resident: Provide sponsor letter, sponsor's passport copy, German residence permit (if applicable), and Verpflichtungserklärung (formal obligation letter) if available.
  • If the sponsor is your spouse: Include your marriage certificate. Note: Make sure your name remains the same on all documents issued after a name change, like marriage.
  • If the sponsor is your parent: Provide a birth certificate
  • Sponsored by an Indian company: Submit acknowledgment of the company's ITR Returns for the last three years (latest first).
  • Sponsored by a German company: Include sponsor letter, sponsor's passport copy, and German residence permit (if not a German Citizen).

If Employed

  • Provide pay slips, employment contract, and an employer's statement (leave sanction letter).
  • Include your last 3 months' bank statements, Indian income tax return (ITR) acknowledgment, or Form 16.

If Self-Employed or a Company Owner

  • Provide pay slips, employment contract, and an employer's statement (leave sanction letter).
  • Include your last 3 months' bank statements, Indian income tax return (ITR) acknowledgment, or Form 16.

If Self-Employed or a Company Owner

  • Submit the company's certificate of registration and GST registration number.
  • Include Indian income tax return (ITR) acknowledgment for the last two assessment years or Form 16 and last 3 months' bank statements stamped by the bank.

If Retired

  • Pension statements for the last three months and/or proof of regular income generated by ownership of property or business.
  • Last 3 months' bank statements stamped by the bank.

If a Student

  • Certificates from your educational institution and a no objection certificate from your school/university.
  • For university students, include your last 3 months' bank statements stamped by the bank.

If Unemployed

Last 3 months' bank statements stamped by the bank.

If a Minor

  • Sign the application form and declarations with both parents.
  • Minor's birth certificate. Note: If the Germany tourist visa checklist specifies a birth certificate, it is a must-have document. If you don't have one, you can apply for late registration of birth at the appropriate registrar's office.
  • Passport copies of both parents with custody/guardianship
  • If one parent is submitting the application, show proof of single custody or provide written authorization from the absent parent, certified by a public notary.
  • If the minor is travelling alone, submit written consent from both parents or guardians with custody or guardianship, certified by a public notary.

Photograph Requirements and Specifications for Germany Visa Application

Photo requirements for a Germany visa as an Indian citizen includes:

Recent Photo: Your visa photo must be no older than 6 months.

Size and Dimensions: Your visa photo should measure 35mm x 45mm (width x height) with a 70 to 80% face coverage.

Germany Visa Photo Dimensions

Head Position: Ensure your head is fully visible and centred in the photo.

Eyeglasses and Headgear: If wearing eyeglasses, no glare should obscure your eyes. Religious headgear is allowed, but your entire face (from chin to forehead, including cheeks and ears) must be fully visible.

Quality: The photo should be in colour, high-resolution, and well-lit, with no shadows, red-eye, or reflections.

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Teleport’s Expert Tip

Ensure that the photo in your passport matches the one you submitted with your application. To avoid rejection, include a new photo that meets the specifications. If your visa is rejected, provide a new photo to prevent rejection again.

What is the Germany Tourist Visa Processing Time for Indians?

Germany tourist visa processing time is 15 to 21 working days after your appointment at the visa application centre is completed.

Fees For Germany Visa From India

Visa TypeFee TypeAmount

Schengen Visa (including Airport Transit Visa)

VFS Appointment Fees

Euro 18 (INR 1,683/-)

-

Embassy Fees (0-6 years)

No Fee

-

Embassy Fees (6-11 years)

Euro 40 (INR 3,600/-)

-

Embassy Fees (12+ years)

Euro 80  (INR 7,100/-)

National Visa(Long term visas)

VFS Appointment Fees

Euro 9 (INR 894/-)

-

Embassy Fees (18+ years)

Euro 75  (INR 6,700/-)

-

Embassy Fees (Under 18 years)

Euro 37.5 (3,350/-)

What is the Validity of a Germany Tourist Visa for Indians?

Both Germany tourist and business visas let you stay in Germany for 90 days within a 180-days time frame.

The actual validity may vary, as it is subject to the discretion of the embassy. While they can issue it for up to 6 months (180 days), it's not guaranteed in every case.

How to Check the Status of a Germany Visa Application for Indians?

Track Your Germany Visa Application Using Teleport

Stay informed about the status of your Germany visa application with Teleport. If you've applied through Teleport, receive real-time updates via WhatsApp, email, or directly on the Teleport Dashboard. To check your application status:

  1. Log in to the Teleport Dashboard.
  2. Navigate to 'Your Applications.'
  3. Click on your submitted application for the current status.

Track Germany Visa Application Via VFS

Alternatively, you can track your Germany visa application status through VFS Global:

  1. Visit the VFS online application tracking tool.
  2. Choose the country where you submitted your application.
  3. Enter the application reference number provided during payment at the VFS centre.
  4. Provide your last name.

Do I Need a Germany Airport Transit Visa as an Indian?

Indian nationals, in general, are not granted transit privileges and thus need to obtain an airport transit visa (Category A) for transiting through a German airport.

There are, however, exceptions to this requirement:

  1. Individuals holding valid visas and national residence permits from EU and Schengen countries.
  2. Individuals with certain national residence permits from specific countries, including Andorra, Japan, Canada, San Marino, and the United States of America.
  3. Those in possession of valid visas from the EEA countries (the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland).

What are the Reasons for Germany Visa Rejection in India?

  1. Incomplete Documentation: Ensure you submit all required documents, as missing any may result in rejection.
  2. Providing False Information: Giving inaccurate details can not only lead to rejection but also result in future bans on visa applications.
  3. Insufficient Financial Evidence: It's crucial to demonstrate adequate funds (at least EUR 65 per day per person) to cover your expenses during the stay.
  4. Unexplained Sources of Income: Providing clear and transparent information about your income sources is vital to avoid raising suspicions.
  5. Limited Travel History: Past instances of overstaying visas, especially in Schengen countries, may have a negative impact on your application.
  6. Suspicion of Fraudulent Intent: Failing to clearly explain the purpose of your visit can make officials suspicious.
  7. Criminal Record: A history of criminal activities or involvement in illegal actions can lead to visa rejection.
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Teleport Expert's Tip

Lots of visa rejections occur due to financial problems, such as issues with bank statements and tax returns. Make sure you show enough evidence of your finances, aiming for a minimum bank balance of INR 3,00,000 per applicant.

What to do if My Germany Tourist Visa Gets Rejected?

After receiving an official visa rejection letter, the applicant has three options:

  1. The applicant can reapply for a Germany visa.
  2. Request a re-assessment of the visa application through a process called remonstration. This is a free procedure, and a signed remonstration letter must be submitted to the relevant mission /consulate within one month of receiving the rejection.
  3. The applicant also has the option to file a lawsuit against the refusal, which will lead to a re-assessment of the application by the administrative court in Berlin.
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Teleport’s Expert Tip

Consider reapplying instead of appealing, as the appeal process tends to take longer with no guaranteed timeline.

Do Indian Citizens Need Travel Insurance for a Germany Visa?

Yes, when applying for a Germany visa, it is mandatory to have minimum travel insurance coverage of 30,000 Euros. It's strongly advisable for travellers to consider acquiring health insurance coverage from reputable providers such as Tata AIG, Digit Insurance, HDFC Ergo, and others.

What to Do After Reaching Germany Airport?

When arriving at a German airport, it's essential to follow these steps to ensure a seamless and trouble-free exit:

  1. Prepare Your Travel Documents: Have your passport, valid Germany sticker visa, return ticket, and hotel bookings ready for quick verification by immigration authorities. This will expedite the arrival process and help you navigate through smoothly.
  2. Unaccompanied Minor Guidelines: If you are travelling as an unaccompanied minor, it's crucial to stay close to your designated flight attendant for safety. Identify your assigned adult at the destination airport to ensure a secure and well-coordinated arrival experience.
  3. Understand Germany’s Regulations: Familiarise yourself with Germany's customs regulations. If you have items to declare or require baggage inspection, proceed to the customs area. Being aware of the Customs Regulations at German airports will help you navigate these processes smoothly and avoid any complications during your arrival.

Conclusion

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.

If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us. Our dedicated team is prepared to offer guidance and support.

You can reach us at 073148 52914 or contact us on WhatsApp.

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