The application process
How to apply, eligibility, fees and processing times for Germany.
9 German resources in this topic
Requirements & how-to guidance
- How to apply for a Germany visaGuidance
How to apply for a visa for Germany — the shared Schengen short-stay process for visits up to 90 days, and Germany's national long-stay (Type D) route for longer stays, with the official EU sources.
- Germany national long-stay visas (Type D)Guidance
Germany national long-stay (Type D) visas — awaiting review against official sources. For short stays, see the shared Schengen short-stay guidance.
- Germany visa feesGuidance
Germany visa fees — awaiting verification against official sources. Short-stay Schengen visa fees follow the shared Schengen rules.
- Germany visa processing timesGuidance
Germany visa processing times — awaiting verification against official sources.
- Germany visa eligibilityGuidance
Germany visa eligibility — awaiting review against official sources. Short-stay Schengen eligibility follows the shared Schengen rules.
- Documents for a Germany visa applicationGuidance
The core documents needed for a German national (category D) long-stay visa, plus the purpose-specific proof each route requires.
- Germany's immigration authoritiesGuidance
Germany's national process is run by German missions abroad (visa) and the local foreigners' authority (Ausländerbehörde) in Germany (residence permit).
- Appointments and biometrics for a Germany visaGuidance
German national visas use the online Consular Services Portal plus a shortened in-person appointment for biometrics; the residence permit card involves biometrics again in Germany.
- After you arrive in GermanyGuidance
Once in Germany you register your address, then apply at the local foreigners' authority to turn your national visa into a residence permit.