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Schengen Visa

A Schengen visa is required if you intend to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180 day period for business, visitor or tourist purposes.

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A residence visa is required if you intend to stay in Germany for more than 90 days for work or study or if you intend to move to Germany permanently.

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Citizens of certain countries require an airport transit visa when flying via Germany to their final destination.

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Essential Guidelines: How to Apply for a Germany Tourist Visa

Last Update: 09-02-2024

Aditya Jain

⚡Quick Summary

Germany tourist visa for indians.

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

Introduction, when should i apply for a germany schengen visa, types of germany visas for indians, how to apply for a germany visa for indians, germany tourist visa requirements for indians, what is the germany tourist visa processing time for indians.

Fees For Germany Visa From India

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

How to check the status of a germany visa application for indians, do i need a germany airport transit visa as an indian, what are the reasons for germany visa rejection in india, what to do if my germany tourist visa gets rejected, do indian citizens need travel insurance for a germany visa, what to do after reaching germany airport.

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 +91 73148 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.

Applying for a Schengen Visa at a Germany Diplomatic Mission:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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.

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.

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 a. Fill out the online application form , print it, sign it, and gather other necessary documents. b. Use the VIDEX format for the online application form. A high-quality printout of the barcode is essential. c. If you can't complete the online form, you can print it and fill it out by hand. d. 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

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:

• The reference number issued to you while making the payment at the VFS centre.
• 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.

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.

Mandatory Documents

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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:

• Log in to the Teleport Dashboard.
• Navigate to 'Your Applications.'
• 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:

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

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.

• Those in possession of valid visas from the EEA countries (the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland).
• Incomplete Documentation: Ensure you submit all required documents, as missing any may result in rejection.
• Providing False Information: Giving inaccurate details can not only lead to rejection but also result in future bans on visa applications.
• 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.
• Unexplained Sources of Income: Providing clear and transparent information about your income sources is vital to avoid raising suspicions .
• Limited Travel History: Past instances of overstaying visas, especially in Schengen countries, may have a negative impact on your application.
• Suspicion of Fraudulent Intent: Failing to clearly explain the purpose of your visit can make officials suspicious.
• Criminal Record: A history of criminal activities or involvement in illegal actions can lead to visa rejection.

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.

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

• The applicant can reapply for a Germany visa.
• 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.
• 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.

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

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.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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 breathtaking 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 +91 73148 52914 or contact us on WhatsApp .

Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Germany?

How long does it take to process a Germany Tourist Visa?

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

Can I get a Germany visa on arrival?

Is travel insurance mandatory for a Germany visa?

Can I travel to other Schengen countries with my Germany Schengen visa?

Can I extend my Germany tourist visa?

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

Can I work in Germany with a tourist visa?

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Which visa do I need for Germany?

I want to travel to Germany as a tourist, on business, for my studies, to work, or to join family members who live there.

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Visa: short-term / schengen for stays up to 90 days.

Visits up to 90 days

General information

Recommendations and tips, so called “visa agents”, book your appointment, additional content, related content.

Please first read the Embassy´s page Visa - Important information for all applicants .

For visiting the so-called “Schengen States” for a period up to 90 days, Sri Lankan and Maldivian citizens and certain third country nationals residing in these countries have to obtain a visa category “Schengen”.

They have to lodge an application at the Embassy of the country which is their main destination (generally: the Schengen country with the longest stay during the trip). The country of entry and departure is not the determining factor! Holders of Schengen visas (text on the visa reads “valid for Schengen states” in the language of the issuing country) may spend up to 90 days in a given 180 days period in the Schengen area, provided their visa is valid at the time.

The German Embassy Colombo handles Schengen visa applications from

• Citizens of Sri Lanka residing in Sri Lanka and other third country nationals residing in Sri Lanka wishing to travel mainly to Germany, Estonia, Hungary and Latvia. Applicants may apply in the VFS German Visa Application Centres in Colombo and Jaffna.
• Please note: Germany is not representing any other Schengen country in the Maldives. Applicants wishing to travel mainly to another Schengen country have to apply with the respective Embassy in New Delhi.
• It is recommended to apply as early as possible. The application can be lodged up to 6 months before the planned trip.
• The standard processing time for the decision on visa applications is 15 calendar days. The application should therefore be submitted at least 15 calendar days before the planned trip. Please refrain from enquiries on the status of your visa application during the processing time. If in individual cases an extended review is carried out, the processing time may be extended to 45 calendar days.
• Please note that visa applications can only be submitted through one of Germany’s VFS visa application centres in Colombo, Jaffna or Malé / Maldives . VFS acts as the official partner of the Embassy of Germany managing the administrative tasks related to visa. The decision making process about an application is solely handled by the Embassy!
• For an appointment at the VFS visa application centre in Colombo and Jaffna you have to register on this waiting list You will get a confirmation about your registration and again an email once your appointment is to be scheduled.

For an appointment at the VFS visa application centres in Malé you have to book an appointment via the VFS website. Please consult the VFS website for further information.

• Applicants are obliged to provide all information necessary to proof their case and therefore are advised to submit only complete applications. Please note that all visa applicants need to appear in person for the collection of biometric data (photograph and ten fingerprints) when applying for a Schengen Visa. For more information, also regarding exceptions, click here Information regarding the Visa Information System (VIS)

There is no need to use an “agent” to apply for a visa.

Please be informed that the German Embassy is not related to “visa agents” in any way. They neither work for nor work with the consent of the German Embassy. There is no such thing as “registered visa agent” for Germany. Their service may be expensive to you, but without any value to your case and certainly in no case will bind the German Embassy in their decision making process.

No “visa agent” can:

• influence the outcome
• fast-track the processing period
• guarantee you a visa

These checklists for Schengen visa applications will help you to make sure that your application is complete.

Checklist visitor - tourist PDF / 612 KB

Checklist Business PDF / 542 KB

Checklist Seaman PDF / 404 KB

Checklist Transit Visa PDF / 357 KB

Application form

Schengen visa application PDF / 277 KB

Complete your application online

Online Appointments Schengen at VFS (for applicants in Maledives) can be obtained here .

Waiting List for Schengen Visa (application center Colombo and Jaffna only)

Think about others: please cancel your appointment as soon as you know that you are not going to use it. You will enable other applicants to use that slot! “No-shows” (applicants who do not use booked appointments) will be monitored and if necessary registered. Late arrivals will be asked to reschedule.

All information is based on the knowledge and experience of the Embassy at the time of writing this text. No guarantee can be given for the completeness and correctness, especially due to changes that have occurred in the meantime.

Frequently asked questions about Schengen visa

Check if your question about Schengen visa is answered here!

VFS General

Videx Schengen - Complete your application online!

Visa requirements for long term stay

Emergency travel documents for eu citizens, certification of a copy.

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Checklist for a german national visa - student.

Before filling out the application form and booking an appointment, please prepare 2 identical sets of the following documentation for your visa:

• Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least another year as of date of visa application; passports with observations regarding the front data page cannot be accepted) with at least two empty pages
• Application form & declaration (in accordance with Section 54 of the Residence Act) duly signed
• Declaration for additional contact and legal representation information
• Copy of your passport’s data page (A4 size copy)
• Statement of purpose / Motivation letter
• Certificate issued by the APS (Academic Evaluation Centre) – please consult www.aps-india.de for further information about application process See below for exceptions.
• Proof of admittance to the study course/preparatory college (original and 2 copies) including information on the language of instruction
• Where not confirmed by the German University in the admission notification: Proof of the language skills in the language of instruction for the study course or the preparatory course (without a preparatory language course as a rule at least B2-level in the language of instructions) (original and 2 copies). Only certificates approved by German government will be accepted (such as Goethe Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan, ÖSD, IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge Assessment English). Do NOT provide “exemption letters” or “Language of Instruction Certificates!”
• Certificates of all academic qualifications you have previously obtained (original and 2 copies)
• Curriculum vitae
• Proof of financial means to cover the costs for the time of your studies by one of the following documents: - confirmation of a German / EU scholarship / stipend or - “Verpflichtungserklärung” (formal obligation letter) by sponsor living in Germany or - blocked account for the first year of your stay, amounting to 11,208 euros When applying for visa, you can provide evidence that you are able to meet your living costs by opening a blocked bank account. You have free choice of provider. Information on providers that offer this service worldwide is available on the website of the Federal Foreign Office . PLEASE NOTE: You cannot withdraw more than 934 euros per month from a blocked account. This is applicable from 01.01.2023. However, especially at the beginning of your stay, you might be required to spend more than 934 euros in a month (e.g. to pay a deposit when renting a room or an apartment). It is therefore highly recommended to make sure that you have access to sufficient financial means according to your individual Situation.
• If the university charges tuition fees: Proof of funds equivalent to the tuition fees for the first two semesters and the fee structure (detailed overview of fees). This can be either of the following: - Confirmation of payment issued by the university OR - Education loan OR - Unblocked deposit added to your blocked account (i.e. deposited in addition to the 11,208 euros mentioned above)
• 3 passport pictures according to biometric specifications, not older than 6 months
• Visa fee of 75 € payable in INR only (pls. check our website for payment options and applicable exchange rate)
• Travel health insurance valid on arrival in Germany to the date of enrollment at the University (mentioned in your admission letter) (approx. 3 months). Kindly click here to find out about the travel health insurances accepted. In case you receive a stipend from public funds: please provide ONE of the following: • Proof of a private German health insurance which fulfills the below mentioned requirements and starts at your tentative travel date OR • Proof of a public German health insurance, which consists of a letter from your German healthcare provider, and additionally a travel health insurance from your travel date up to the starting date of the public German health insurance. OR • Proof of a private foreign (including Indian) health insurance mentioning the specific policy you chose which fulfills the below mentioned requirements and starts at your tentative travel date When does a health insurance meet the requirement of being equivalent to a German public health insurance? • No limit to the reimbursement in case of sickness • If the insured person becomes sick, no deductible higher than 300 € per year can be demanded • Preexisting conditions must be included • No clause for termination regarding the insured person reaching a certain age, change of residence permit or loss of residence Permit • The Insurance cover cannot have any time limit (or needs to be automatically renewed)

Students who do not need to present an APS certificate:

• If you obtain a non-German degree
• If you have a foreign degree that is not Indian (e.g. British degree, Turkish degree, etc.)
• If you intend to do a PhD / PostDoc in Germany
• If you have an international Indian degree (e.g. International Baccalaureate)
• If you receive a stipend from public funds ( EU or German funds)

Please prepare two identical application sets with the above-mentioned documents and bring your original certificates along. Please DO NOT staple any documents.

Please note that the German Missions reserve the right to ask for additional documents or the verification of certificates, for which additional fees would be charged.

Submission of the above-mentioned documents does not guarantee that a visa is granted. Submission of incomplete documentation or refusal to appear for a visa interview may result in the rejection of your application.

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