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German Visa for Indians: Types, Fees, and Requirements

Last Update: 04-09-2024

Historic German castle overlooking riverfront village and vineyards

Going to Germany? As an Indian citizen you need to get a visa before you travel. Germany is a popular destination, rich in history, cities and landscapes but understanding the visa process is key to a smooth journey. Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, study or to meet family and friends there are specific visa types for your needs. The process may seem daunting but with the right information it’s manageable. In this post I will walk you through the Germany visa requirements for Indians, including the different types of visas, application process, documents required, fees and processing times. By the end of this you will have a clear idea of what it takes to get a Germany visa from India and be well prepared for your next adventure in one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.

⚡Quick Summary

Germany visa fees

  1. VFS Appointment fees: Euro 18 (INR 1,683/-)
  2. Embassy fees: Euro 80 (INR 7,100/-)

How to apply for a Germany visa?

  1. Apply through Teleport in under minutes.
  2. Apply through VFS Global website.

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)
  11. Other supporting documents

Do I Need a Germany Visa from India?

Yes, Indian nationals need a visa to visit Germany. Depending on your purpose of travel—tourism, business, study, or other activities—you'll need to apply for the appropriate type of Germany visa.

Table of Contents


  1. Types of German Visas
  2. Germany Visa Requirements
  3. How to Apply for a Germany Visa from India?
  4. Germany Visa Fees
  5. Germany Visa Processing Time
  6. When to Apply for a Germany Visa from India?
  7. Germany Visa Validity
  8. FAQs

Types of German Visas

Schengen visa(Type C): 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(Type D): 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.


Airport Transit Visa (Type A): 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:


  • 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 in possession of 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.

Germany Visa Requirements

Following are the documents required for a Germany visa from India:

Visa Application Form

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

Original Passport

  • 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

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

  • 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

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.
  • 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 theGerman visa application form and declarations with both parents.
  • Minor's birth certificate.
  • 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.

How to Apply for a Germany Visa from India?

  1. Choose Your Visa Type: Start by determining the suitable visa for your Germany trip, ensuring you meet eligibility criteria. Familiarise yourself with required documents, processing times, and fees.
  2. Gather Documents: Collect necessary documents for your visa application. Ensure photos meet biometric standards, available at Visa Application Centres.
  3. Fill Application Form: Complete the online form, print, sign, and gather required documents. Use the VIDEX format, ensuring a high-quality printout of the barcode. If unable to complete online, print and fill by hand. Authorise someone if fingerprints were taken within 59 months.
  4. Schedule Appointment: Book an appointment for application submission and biometric data collection. Confirmation email includes your appointment letter.
  5. Pay the Fees: Pay visa application fee in cash or by card (Visa, Rupay, Mastercard) at the Visa Application Centre. 
  6. Visit Visa Application Centre: For Schengen visa processing in Mumbai, book and submit applications at any VFS Global Visa Application Centre in India. Ensure you bring the German visa form and required documents as per the checklist.
  7. Track Application: Use the VFS online tracking tool, providing reference number and date of birth, to monitor application status.
  8. Collect Visa: After processing, retrieve documents and passport from the Visa Application Centre or opt for courier service (additional fee). 

Germany Visa Fees

Following are the Germany visa fees from India:

Visa TypeFee CategoryAmount

Type C (Short-stay visas)

Appointment Fees

Euro 18

Embassy Fees (0-6 years)

Free of cost

Embassy Fees (6-11 years)

Euro 45

Embassy Fees (12+ years)

Euro 80  (INR 7,100/-)

Type D (Long-stay visas)

Appointment Fees

Euro 9

Embassy Fees (18+ years)

Euro 75

Embassy Fees (Under 18 years)

Euro 37.5

Note

If you prefer to have your passport mailed back to you, please be aware of an additional fee of up to 35 USD. Additionally, if copies of the supporting documents need to be made by the German Mission, an extra fee may apply.

Germany Visa Processing Time

For short-stay Germany visa applications (including tourist, business or transit visas), the processing time typically takes up to 15 working days. However, if you are applying for long-term residence permits, work visa or student visa in Germany, the processing period can extend to several months. The exact time may vary depending on the complexity of your application and the volume of applications being processed at the consulate or visa center. It’s important to apply well in advance of your planned travel date to account for any potential delays and ensure your visa is approved in time for your trip.

When to Apply for a Germany Visa from India?

Apply for your German visa as early as possible to ensure a smooth process. For short-stay visas like the Schengen (Tourist) or Business Visa, aim to apply at least 30 days before your travel date. For long-term visas, such as Student, Job Seeker, or Family Reunion Visas, start your application 3 months before your planned stay. Begin your application as soon as you receive formal admission or a job offer, and for work or research permits, apply once you have your contract or research plan.

Germany Visa Validity

Visa TypeValidity

Airport Transit Visa

24 hours

Tourist Visa

90 days within a 180-day period

Business Visa

90 days within a 180-day period

Student Visa

More than 3 months (depending on study program)

Job Seeker Visa

6 months

Freelancer Entry Visa

3 months

Temporary Work Permit

1 to 3 years (depends on the contract)

Family Reunion Visa

1 year

EU Blue Card

4 years

Conclusion

In conclusion, applying for a Germany visa from India involves understanding the type of visa you need, gathering the necessary documents, and applying well in advance. Whether you're planning a short visit, a business trip, or a long-term stay, making sure you meet all requirements and follow the application process carefully will help ensure a smooth experience. With the right preparation, you can look forward to a successful journey to Germany. Safe travels!


FAQs

Why is my German visa from India taking so long?

Visa processing times can vary based on factors such as the type of visa, volume of applications, and individual circumstances. Delays may occur due to additional document verification or administrative processes.

How can I schedule an early appointment for a German visa for Indians?

Early appointment scheduling depends on availability. To secure an early slot, it's advisable to plan ahead and book your appointment as soon as you start your visa application process.

How much bank balance is required for a German tourist visa from India?

A recommended budget of 65 Euros per person per day of the trip is advisable. Ensure your bank statement reflects this amount, and it should be no more than 15 days old on the appointment day.

What types of visas can Indian nationals apply for to visit Germany?

Indian nationals can apply for various types of visas to visit Germany, including a Schengen Tourist Visa (short-term visa for up to 90 days), Business Visa, Student Visa, Job Seeker Visa, and Family Reunion Visa. Each visa type has specific requirements and purposes, so it's important to choose the one that fits your travel plans.

What are the general requirements for a German visa application?

Generally, you will need a completed visa application form, a valid passport, recent passport-sized photographs, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, financial statements, and a cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit. Additional documents may be required depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

What should I do if my visa application is rejected?

If your visa application is rejected, you will receive a notification explaining the reasons for the refusal. You can appeal the decision or reapply, addressing the issues mentioned in the rejection notice. It’s important to review and correct any deficiencies in your application before reapplying.

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