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What You Need to Know About Germany Visa Appointments

Last Update: 20-02-2024

Man smiling in sunglasses and a jacket, with snowy mountains in the background.

Aditya Jain

German flag waving above historic Reichstag building.
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What You Need to Know About Germany Visa Appointments

Do Indians Need to Book a Germany Visa Appointment?

Yes, Indians must book an appointment to submit a visa application to VFS Global visa application centre (VAC). Prior to scheduling your appointment, complete the online visa application form on the official German website using the VIDEX format. Clearly indicate the "City of submission of application" where you intend to submit your visa application.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. When is the Right Time to Schedule My Germany Visa Appointment?
  3. How Do I Book a Germany Visa Appointment?
  4. Tips for a Smooth Germany Visa Appointment for Indians
  5. Germany Tourist Visa Requirements for Indians
  6. Conclusion
  7. FAQs

Introduction

Planning a trip to Germany and need a visa? Securing an appointment at the preferred time can be challenging due to the limited available slots. Consider applying with Teleport for simple and convenient Germany appointment booking.

Learn the ins and outs of securing your appointment with our easy-to-follow guide. For Indians, booking an appointment through VFS Global is a key step in the visa application process. Get to know the essential documents needed for a Germany Schengen visa, along with guidelines for your appointment day, biometrics information, and exemptions. 

If you're having trouble finding what you need, feel free to contact us. Our committed team is available to assist you. 

Call us at 073148 52914 or send a message on WhatsApp for any queries or assistance. 

Wishing you a smooth journey and safe travels to Germany! ✈️

When is the Right Time to Schedule My Germany Visa Appointment?

You have the option to book your appointment through VFS Global. Keep in mind, the slots are limited and might be a bit tricky to get. To make things easier and avoid any issues, it's a good idea to start your visa application at least 45 days before your intended travel date. Choose Teleport for a hassle-free and straightforward Germany visa application appointment booking.

How Do I Book a Germany Visa Appointment?

Apply for your Germany Visa through Teleport (Appointment Booking Included)

If you choose to apply for a Germany visa through Teleport, the process becomes more streamlined as Teleport will handle the Germany appointment booking on your behalf. Follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Begin Your Application: Visit Teleport's Germany Application portal. Start your visa application by clicking 'Start Application.'
  • Step 2: Fill in Details and Pay Fees: Enter your basic passport and travel information, and proceed to pay the fees—choose between partial or full payment based on your preference.
  • Step 3: Scheduling Your Appointment: Once you've filled in your details and paid the fees, Teleport will assign you a relationship manager who will book your VFS appointment on your behalf.
  • Step 4: Visit VFS Visa Application Centre: Attend your scheduled appointment at the nearby VFS Visa Application Centre. Remember to bring all the required documents along with the appointment slip.
  • Step 5: Provide Biometrics: At the centre, your fingerprints and a photo will be collected using a digital finger scanner that captures images of all 10 fingers. If you have a biometric Schengen visa issued by the German consulate in the last 59 months, your previously collected data may be reused for your current Germany visa application.

After your appointment, choose to have your passport couriered or pick it up personally from the visa centre.

Germany visa appointment available dates are limited and Teleport minimises complications associated with self-booking and provides a more convenient and efficient process.

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Teleport’s Expert Tip

Arrive at the VFS Visa Application centre at least 30 minutes early to ensure entry, as there might be restrictions if you're late, or you may be required to pay a premium for entry.

Direct Booking Through VFS Global Visa Application Centre

For those opting to apply directly through VFS Global Visa Application Centre in India, follow these steps to book your appointment:

Step 1: Start your Application

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: Gather your Documents and fill the application form

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.

  1. Fill out the online application form, print it, sign it, and gather other necessary documents.
  2. Use the VIDEX format for the online application form. A high-quality printout of the barcode is essential.

Step 3: Book your 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. 

For Example: In the case of New Delhi jurisdiction, you have the option to apply to multiple cities within that area. If you are in Delhi, you can apply to the VFS centre in Chandigarh since both cities fall under the same jurisdiction. Refer to the details below on where to apply according to your location.5

LocationStates/Territories Served

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 4: Visit the Visa Application Centre

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)

Choose a Visa Application Centre

CityOperating Hours (Mon to Fri)

Ahmedabad

09:00 - 17:00

Bangalore

08:00 - 16:00

Chandigarh

09:00 - 16:00

Chennai

08:00 - 15:00

Cochin

09:00 - 13:00

Coimbatore

08:00 - 15:00

Goa

08:00 - 15:00

Gurugram

09:00 - 16:00

Hyderabad

08:00 - 15:00

Jaipur

09:00 - 16:00

Jalandhar

09:00 - 13:00

Kolkata

09:00 - 17:00

Mumbai

08:00 - 16:00

New Delhi

09:00 - 16:00

Puducherry

08:00 - 15:00

Pune

08:00 - 16:00

Step 5: Pay your visa fees

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.

Step 6: 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 7: 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:

a. Immediate family members (parents, children, siblings).

b. One member collecting on behalf of the entire group.

c. Persons collecting on behalf of government officials, if duly authorised on official government letterhead.

d. Representatives of companies must provide an authorization letter on company letterhead along with an official ID card.

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.

Tips for a Smooth Germany Visa Appointment for Indians

On the day of your appointment, please follow these guidelines:

Arrival Time: Plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment; attendance is compulsory, and no proxy attendance is allowed.

Note

If you miss your appointment, you can't reschedule or get a refund for the application fee. You can only change the appointment date up to 5 working days before the scheduled date.

Documentation:

  • Bring a printout of the email confirming your appointment details, received after booking.
  • Ensure your valid passport or travel documents have at least 2 blank pages on both sides.
  • Carry a printout of your completed visa application form; minor manual changes are acceptable at the visa application centre.
  • Don't forget all supporting documents required for your application.
  • If you've purchased extra services online, bring a printout of your receipt.
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Teleport’s Expert Tip

Prepare all necessary documents in advance, including photocopies, to avoid expensive printing fees at the VFS centre. Having everything ready beforehand is advisable.

Fee Payment: If you haven't paid your visa fee online, you can make the payment at the centre.

Biometric Information Collection: During your visit, your fingerprints and photograph will be collected using a digital finger scanner. Ensure your fingertips are free from temporary decorations, cuts, or other markings. Exemptions may apply for certain cases.

Exemptions to Biometrics: You may be exempted from providing biometric data (fingerprints) if:

  • You are under 6 years of age (though a photo is still required).
  • If you have provided your fingerprints previously within the last 59 months.
  • The collection of fingerprints is physically impossible, supported by a medical certificate.
  • You are a Head of State, a member of national Governments, or part of official delegations travelling for official purposes.

Photograph Guidelines: Your digital photograph should feature your full face, without sunglasses or head coverings, unless for religious or ethical reasons. Bright-coloured clothing is recommended over light-coloured attire.

Accompanying Children: Children under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult (not VFS Global staff).

No Electronic Items: Avoid bringing electronic items like laptops, watches and pen drives as you might need to submit it to the authorities and it may charge you to book a locker.

Germany Tourist Visa Requirements for Indians

Documents Required for a Germany Visa Application for Indians

Schengen Visa Application Form

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

Original Passport

  • Ensure your passport is 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, duration of stay and personal details.

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

  • 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 budget of 65 Euros per person per day of the trip.
  • 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

Supporting Documents for Germany Tourist Visa

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

  • 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.

Conclusion

In conclusion, securing a Germany visa appointment is a crucial step for Indian travelers. The process can be simplified by choosing the right approach. Teleport offers a streamlined experience by handling appointment bookings on behalf of applicants, minimizing complexities.

Alternatively, for those applying directly through VFS Global, a step-by-step guide ensures a smooth process for booking Germany visas for Indians. Remember to adhere to documentation requirements, arrive on time, and be prepared for the biometric information collection.

Whether opting for Teleport's assistance or the direct approach, careful preparation and understanding the guidelines will contribute to a successful Germany visa application experience.

Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or need assistance. Our dedicated team is ready to provide guidance and support.

Call us at 073148 52914 or reach out to us on WhatsApp.

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