tourist visa for parents in germany

Inviting Family and Friends To Germany [2024 Guide]

by Live in Germany Team | Bureaucracy in Germany

Last Update: Feb 24, 2024 @ 2:27 am

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Do you want to invite your friends, family members, or business partners to Germany? Or do you want to visit Germany for personal or business reasons? Germany is a fantastic place to visit for many people, either for education, tourism, or business. If you are from one of the EU countries, then you can simply pack your stuff and visit it whenever you want. If you are not from an EU country, you must get a German visa to visit Germany. An invitation letter is necessary to get a visitor visa in most countries; with this letter, you can invite anyone to Germany.

What Does an Invitation Letter Mean in Germany? 

An invitation letter is the document you can present while applying for a German visa. This invitation letter convinces your application powerfully and makes the process easy and quick. If one is applying for a German visa and has an invitation letter in hand, the German embassy can trust the person that he or she is not moving to Germany for any illegal activity. The invitation letter also proves that you will not stay in Germany for more than 90 days and will return to your homeland within your visa limit.

Obligation Letter

Some people call it an invitation letter while others call it a sponsorship letter. In Germany it is called verpflichtungserklärung which means obligation letter. If your friends or family members or anyone else wishes to visit Germany, they can use an obligation letter to ease their visa process and can travel to Germany without any challenge.

For more information about declaration of commitment, refer to our article (Declaration of Commitment) on our blog.

🔶   Related Topic : How to Get Verpflichtungserklärung in Germany 

Writer of The Invitation Letter

The person planning to ask someone and host the visit would write an invitation letter to get the visitor visa. Once the invitation letter is written, you should send it to your friend, family member, acquaintance, or business partner you want to invite to Germany, as they need to present the invitation letter at the German embassy while applying for the German visa. If you are going to Germany to visit your family or spouse, any of your family members or spouse should write it. If you have a lot of members to write your invitation letter to, you should ask the one who has the strongest financial background and has more years while staying in Germany. For students, universities or educational institutions will provide the invitation letter.

Visa Options

There are two basic kinds of visas;

• Tourist visa
• Visitor visa

It is highly recommended to use a visa for your close friends or relatives, otherwise, you might face some legal and financial issues in Germany. The short stay visa is only valid for 90 days within the period of 180 days. This visa is used for private visits, tourist visits, and business trips. It is also called a short stay visa or Schengen visa.

Requirements to Get A Visa

There are a few requirements to get a visa. Let us share those requirements below;

• Get an invitation letter from the immigration office of the town you are registered in.
• Get the below information of the person you are going to invite;
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Passport number
• Scan a copy of the first or last page of the passport number
• Your relationship with the person you wish to invite to Germany
• Filled form based on your city of residence
• Your passport
• Residence permit
• German house rent agreement (to check the flat area if it is enough to welcome and serve the guests in a good way in Germany)
• Salary slips of last 6 months (to check if you can sponsor)
• Bank statement of last 6 months
• Certificate by a tax advisor if you are self-employed
• German work contract (in some specific cases)

Kinds of An Invitation Letter

Well, the reason to have an invitation may be different for everyone. You can write it for multiple purposes. Here are the different kinds of invitation letters based on multiple reasons.

• Invitation letter for private visit
• Invitation letter for business visit
• Invitation letter for tourism
• Invitation letter for a family visit or spouse visit
• Invitation letter for medical visit
• Invitation letter for education
• Invitation letter for guest scientists or scholars
• Invitation letter for official delegations
• Invitation letter for training and internships
• Invitation letter for trade and fair exhibitions

Let us discuss each in detail.

Invitation Letter for Private Trip

There is no specific format for an invitation letter, so you can write it as you want to. Your invitation letter must have all the necessary information mentioned in it. Here is the information needed to write an invitation letter for a personal or private trip.

• Your personal information, like your name and your complete address
• Your contact information, like phone number and email address
• Your identity card number
• Your resident permit number
• Information of the person you want to invite; full name, address, date of birth, and passport number.
• Proof of your relationship with the person you are inviting.
• Purpose of your trip; to attend any event like a birthday, wedding, general meetup, or tourist visit.
• Describe the kind of your friendship or kinship
• The duration of your relationship with the person you plan to invite.
• Time frame and scheduled course
• Date and location
• Your signatures

Evidence of Your Relationship with The Visitor

As we mentioned, you need to provide evidence of your relationship. It is necessary for your invitation letter. Proof of your relationship can be in the form of the below documents;

• Marriage certificate
• Birth certificate
• Proof of previous notes
• Any document of a previous meeting
• Proof in the form of an email

Invitation Letter for A Business Trip

As Germany is well developed, people find multiple business options here. To visit Germany, it is necessary for you that a person working in a German company for example; manager or director invites you. Reasons to visit Germany for business might be different such as visiting to sign an agreement, to start a business venture, to discuss the business plan, or so on. If you need to write an invitation letter for a business trip, it should have the following information;

• Your personal information like full name and address
• Your contact information like phone number and email address
• If you invite an employee, a letter from the employee's employer is necessary. The employer should mention the reason and duration of the visit in this letter.
• Purpose, reason, and objective behind the business visit.
• Period and planned course of the visit (business meetings, office visits, factory visits, business discussions, or receptions)
• Proof of business relationship such as; contract, agreement, or business emails
• Address of the hotel where the invited person will stay during his or her visit
• An official company letterhead
• Stamp of the company
• Signature of the managing director

Invitation Letter for Tourism

Germany is a place full of tourist attractions for the tour lovers so people visit it for tourism. Germany has many locations and events to attract visitors. If you are one who wants to visit Germany for tourism, your invitation letter can help you to get a visitor visa for your tour to Germany. If you have any relationships in Germany, your friend, family, or business person, who is willing to write an invitation letter for you, it is a great option to get one invitation letter from that person. The information needed to be mentioned in your invitation letter is almost the same as you have read earlier for the invitation letter for a personal or private visit to Germany. One additional piece of information that you should mention in your invitation letter, is the information related to the tourist places, attractions, or locations you want to visit and see together.

Invitation Letter for A Family Visit or Spouse Visit

This is the most basic reason why people usually have an invitation letter. Most of the people working or living in Germany try to call their spouses or family members to visit them. The German embassy may feel that you will stay in Germany permanently so they can avoid giving you a visa easily. If you have an invitation letter, it can make sure that you would not overstay in Germany. Basic information is the same as other kinds of letters. Additionally you should write the activities you are going to do together during your stay in Germany and also describe the dates of the stay in Germany. If the person inviting you does not share the last name, then he or she must provide other documents to prove that you are related to him or her.

Invitation Letter for Medical Visit

Germany is a popular country for good hospitals, doctors, and medical facilities. They are good to treat many health issues as compared to many other countries. If you or someone in your family needs medical attention from a German hospital or a German doctor, you must have an invitation letter to make your visit happen easily. For a medical visit, you must have an invitation letter from a doctor or hospital you are planning to visit in Germany. They must mention the following information in the invitation letter.

• Kind of medical issue the patient has.
• The required treatment.
• Duration of the treatment.
• Details of medical tests if required.
• Description of required check ups and frequency of hospital visits during stay in Germany.
• Dates of the visit

Keep in mind that the German embassy does not offer visas to those patients who have treatment for an indefinite period, so your treatment must have a specific duration.

Invitation Letter for Education

Being a student, you may want to visit Germany for your college or higher level studies. If so, you need to get an invitation letter from a German educational institution or a German university. A professor or head of your department in a selected German university will write an invitation for you. The professor or head of the department may write an invitation letter while mentioning the below details;

• Reason of visit
• Field of study
• Dates of study visit
• Duration of the degree
• Admission letter or a scholarship letter

Invitation Letter for Guest Scientists, or Scholars

As a scholar or scientist, you might plan to visit a German university or a German research center. They can also invite you to deliver a lecture in a seminar or a conference to the young students, scientists, researchers, or scholars. You may also be invited to give a presentation or to contribute to some latest research. Whatever the reason could be, your host institute, university, or a research center should write an invitation letter for you so you may apply for a German visa easily. Your invitation letter should contain information as given below;

• Dates of your visit to the research center
• Reasons that they choose you as a scholar or scientist
• Activities you will do during your visit together

Invitation Letter for Official Delegations

Being the representative of the government or an organization, you might plan an official visit to Germany. Delegates will get an invitation letter from the organization where they will visit in Germany. The letter must explain below points;

• Relationship with the organization in Germany
• Discuss policies if any
• Mention the workshop if any plan to attend
• Explain how the events will be funded
• Dates and duration of the visit

Invitation Letter for Training and Internships

Here is another reason to visit Germany. People might plan to visit Germany for training or to do some kind of internship. If so, you need your invitation letter from the training institute or company. Your trainer or supervisor must write an invitation letter for you while stating these things in your invitation letter.

• Duties and responsibilities during internship
• Dates of training or internship 
• Topic of the training
• Module covered in the training workshop
• Field of job during internship 
• Acceptance letter for training or internship
• Information of the person who will cover the expenses

Invitation Letter for Trade and Fair Exhibitions

Last but not least, you might visit Germany to attend a trade or fair exhibition and the organization organizing the trade and fair exhibition will send you an invitation letter. Writer should address the letter directly to the person whom the invitation is to send. The invitation letter must have;

• Dates of the exhibition
• Your full name
• Name of the company you are working in or organization details you belongs to

Process to Apply for A Visitor Visa

The process is simple if you read and follow carefully. A step-by-step guide is given here to explain the process of applying for a visitor visa. Let us read it carefully;

• First, the person visiting Germany should have a valid passport. If he or she does not have it, apply immediately.
• Visit your KVR office to get the invitation letter.
• Send this letter to the person you want to invite to Germany.
• Get health insurance.
• Book air tickets.
• Check the list of documents.
• Check the requirements for a photograph.
• Get a visa from the German embassy.

Format of An Invitation Letter

The letter of invitation is a bit complicated but can be easy if you know how to write it and what to mention in it. If you have read this article in detail, you know everything which is necessary to add in your invitation letter. Now, you need to learn how to write this information in your invitation letter. Take a deep breath and start writing it, you will find it super easy. Once you complete writing your invitation letter, it must be signed by the person in Germany who is planning to invite you to Germany. Your invitation letter should be in a formal language to address the situation in a concise way. Letter is to address the formal institution that is the German embassy. The format of the German invitation letter should include the below information in general;

• Name of embassy
• Address and phone number of embassy
• Name of the applicant
• Passport number of the applicant
• Country of residence where applicant lives
• Address and phone number of the applicant
• Name and contact details of the person inviting applicant to Germany
• Dates and duration of the Germany visit 
• Reason of the visit
• Evidence of the relationship between applicant and the person inviting the applicant
• Final remarks
• Signatures of the person inviting someone to Germany

Final Thoughts

So, this is all about an invitation letter to invite your loved ones to Germany. Whatever the purpose is, check the format and required documents carefully so you may get your invitation letter easily and your application process goes smoothly. All the best in your application process and have a good time with the visitors in Germany. Cheers!

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Visa for Parents Germany: How to Apply and Requirements

Understanding the germany family reunion visa, table of contents.

If you are a foreign national living in Germany and you want to bring your parents to live with you, you will need to apply for a Germany Family Reunion Visa. This visa allows your parents to join you in Germany and stay with you for a longer period of time.

To apply for a German Family Reunion Visa, you will need to meet certain requirements. These requirements include proof of your legal residence in Germany, proof of your financial stability, and proof of your relationship with your parents. You will also need to show that your parents will be able to support themselves while they are in Germany.

The Germany Family Reunion Visa is typically valid for up to three months. During this time, your parents will need to apply for a residence permit if they wish to stay in Germany for a longer period of time.

It is important to note that the German Family Reunion Visa is only available to certain family members . In addition to parents, spouses and children may also be eligible for this type of visa.

To apply for a Germany Family Reunion Visa, you will need to submit an application to the German embassy or consulate in your home country. The application process can take several months, so it is important to plan ahead.

Overall, the Germany Family Reunion Visa is an important tool for foreign nationals living in Germany who wish to bring their parents to live with them. By meeting the necessary requirements and submitting a complete application, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy a happy and fulfilling life with your loved ones in Germany.

Eligibility Criteria

If you are a foreign national who wishes to bring your parents to live with you in Germany, there are certain eligibility criteria that you must meet. These criteria may vary depending on your nationality and your status in Germany .

EU Citizens and German Nationals

If you are an EU citizen or a German national, you can bring your parents to live with you in Germany without any restrictions. You do not need to apply for a visa or meet any specific eligibility criteria.

Third-Country Nationals

If you are a third-country national, you must meet certain eligibility criteria to bring your parents to Germany. These criteria include:

• Having a valid residence permit in Germany
• Having sufficient financial resources to support your parents during their stay in Germany
• Having suitable accommodation for your parents
• Having health insurance for your parents

Family Members

If you are a family member of a German national or an EU citizen, you may be eligible to bring your parents to Germany. Family members include spouses, children (both minor and adult), and parents.

If you are a family member of a third-country national, you may also be eligible to bring your parents to Germany. However, the eligibility criteria may be more stringent, and you may need to provide additional documentation to prove your relationship.

Other Relatives

If you are not a family member of a German national, an EU citizen, or a third-country national, you may still be able to bring your parents to Germany. However, the eligibility criteria may be more stringent, and you may need to provide additional documentation to prove your relationship.

Other relatives who may be eligible to bring their parents to Germany include siblings, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and grandparents. Registered partners and civil partners may also be eligible.

In summary, to bring your parents to live with you in Germany, you must meet certain eligibility criteria depending on your nationality and status in Germany. These criteria include having a valid residence permit , sufficient financial resources, suitable accommodation, and health insurance. Family members of German nationals, EU citizens, and third-country nationals may be eligible, as well as other relatives and registered partners.

Application Process

If you are planning to invite your parents to Germany, you need to apply for a visa for them. Here’s what you need to know about the application process.

Required Documents

To apply for a visa for your parents, you need to submit the following documents:

• Valid passport
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Death certificate of the spouse (if applicable)
• Adoption certificate (if applicable)
• Employment contract (if applicable)
• Photo (biometric photo preferred)

Make sure that all the documents are complete and up-to-date. If any of the documents are in a language other than German or English, you need to get them translated by a certified translator.

Steps to Apply

Here are the steps to apply for a visa for your parents:

• Download the visa application form from the website of the German embassy or consulate in your country.
• Fill out the application form completely and accurately.
• Gather all the required documents.
• Schedule an appointment with the German embassy or consulate in your country.
• Submit the application form and the required documents in person during your appointment.
• Pay the visa fee.

The visa fee for parents of German citizens or residents is €75 per person. For non-German citizens, the visa fee may vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay. You can pay the visa fee in cash or by credit card at the time of your appointment.

Keep in mind that the visa processing time may vary depending on the embassy or consulate. It is recommended that you apply for the visa well in advance of your parents’ planned travel dates.

Residence Permits

If you wish to bring your parents to Germany, they will need a residence permit. A residence permit is a document that allows foreign nationals to stay in Germany for a certain period of time. There are different types of residence permits, and each type has its own set of requirements.

Types of Residence Permits

The following are the most common types of residence permits that your parents may apply for:

• Residence Permit : This permit allows your parents to stay in Germany for a limited period of time. To apply for this permit, they will need to provide proof of financial means, health insurance, and accommodation.
• EU Blue Card : This permit is for highly skilled workers who wish to work and live in Germany. To apply for this permit, your parents will need to have a job offer from a German employer and meet certain salary requirements.
• Settlement Permit : This permit allows your parents to stay in Germany indefinitely. To apply for this permit, they will need to have lived in Germany for a certain period of time and meet other requirements.
• EU Long-Term Residence Permit : This permit is for non-EU nationals who have lived in Germany for at least five years. To apply for this permit, your parents will need to meet certain requirements, such as having a clean criminal record and sufficient financial means.
• Permanent Residency : This permit allows your parents to stay in Germany indefinitely. To apply for this permit, they will need to have lived in Germany for a certain period of time and meet other requirements.

Application for Residence Permit

To apply for a residence permit, your parents will need to complete an application form. The application form can be obtained from the German embassy or consulate in their home country. They will need to provide various documents, such as proof of identity, proof of financial means, and health insurance. It is important to note that the requirements for a residence permit may vary depending on the type of permit and the individual circumstances of your parents.

In conclusion, obtaining a residence permit is an important step if you wish to bring your parents to Germany. There are different types of residence permits, and each type has its own set of requirements. Your parents will need to complete an application form and provide various documents to apply for a residence permit.

Living in Germany

If you are planning to live in Germany with your parents, there are some important things that you need to consider. In this section, we will discuss the accommodation requirements, health insurance, language skills, and employment opportunities in Germany.

Accommodation Requirements

When it comes to accommodation, there are different options available in Germany, such as renting an apartment or buying a house. If you are planning to rent an apartment, you need to provide proof of accommodation to obtain a visa. This can be done by signing a rental contract or getting a letter of confirmation from the landlord. You also need to have enough funds to cover the rent and other living expenses.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory in Germany, and you need to have it before you can obtain a visa. There are two types of health insurance available in Germany: statutory health insurance and private health insurance. Statutory health insurance is mandatory for employees with a gross salary of up to €64,350 per year. If you are self-employed or earn more than €64,350 per year, you can opt for private health insurance.

Language Skills

German is the official language in Germany, and having basic German language skills is essential for daily life. It is also required for most jobs in Germany. You can attend language courses to improve your language skills, and there are also online resources available to learn German.

Employment Opportunities

Germany has a strong economy, and there are many employment opportunities available for both German and non-German speakers. If you are a non-German speaker, you can work in Germany if you have the necessary skills and qualifications. You can also start your own business if you have the required capital and skills.

In conclusion, living in Germany with your parents requires careful planning and preparation. You need to have adequate accommodation, health insurance, language skills, and employment opportunities to make your stay in Germany successful.

Legal Assistance

If you are a parent seeking a visa to join your child in Germany, you may benefit from seeking legal assistance from an immigration lawyer. Immigration lawyers can help you navigate the complex legal requirements and procedures for obtaining a visa for parents in Germany.

One law firm that specializes in immigration law is Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte. They have a team of experienced immigration lawyers who can provide legal assistance to parents seeking a visa for Germany. They can help you with the application process, provide advice on the necessary documents, and represent you if necessary.

Legal assistance can also be helpful if you encounter any issues during the application process. For example, if your application is rejected, an immigration lawyer can help you understand the reasons for the rejection and advise you on how to appeal the decision.

It is important to note that legal assistance can come at a cost. However, the benefits of having an experienced immigration lawyer on your side can outweigh the cost in the long run.

In summary, seeking legal assistance from an immigration lawyer can be beneficial when applying for a visa for parents in Germany. Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte is one law firm that specializes in immigration law and can provide legal assistance to parents seeking a visa for Germany.

Additional Information

If you are interested in bringing your parents to Germany, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. This section will provide you with some additional information to help you navigate the process.

Processing Time

The processing time for a visa application can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of visa you are applying for and the workload of the immigration authorities. It is important to apply for a visa well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow sufficient time for processing.

Family Reunification Rights

If you are a German citizen or a legal resident of Germany, you may have the right to bring your parents to Germany under the family reunification provisions of German immigration law. However, there are certain requirements that must be met, including financial means, income, and the right of care and custody. In addition, there are restrictions on polygamous marriages and bringing other family members to Germany.

Other Important Considerations

Here are some other important things to keep in mind when applying for a visa for your parents:

• Sponsorship: You will need to provide evidence that you can financially support your parents during their stay in Germany.
• German Citizenship: If you are a German citizen, your parents may be eligible for a visa under different rules than if you are a legal resident of Germany.
• Humanitarian Reasons: In some cases, you may be able to apply for a visa for your parents on humanitarian grounds, such as if they are in need of medical treatment.
• Unavoidable Hardship: If you can demonstrate that your parents would suffer significant hardship if they were not allowed to come to Germany, you may be able to apply for a visa under this provision.
• Tourist Visa: If your parents are only planning to stay in Germany for a short period of time, they may be eligible for a tourist visa.
• Invitation Letter: You will need to provide an invitation letter to your parents, which should include information about your relationship, the purpose of their visit, and the duration of their stay.
• European Union: If you are a citizen of a European Union country, you may be able to bring your parents to Germany under the EU’s freedom of movement provisions.
• Immigration Authorities: You will need to apply for a visa through the German immigration authorities.
• European Economic Area: If you are a citizen of a country in the European Economic Area or the European Free Trade Association, you may be able to bring your parents to Germany under certain conditions.
• Study: If you are a student in Germany, you may be able to bring your parents to Germany under certain conditions.
• Legal Residence: You will need to have a legal residence in Germany in order to bring your parents to Germany.
• Valid Passport: Your parents will need to have a valid passport in order to apply for a visa.
• Translation: If any of your documents are not in German, you will need to provide a translation.
• Short-Stay Visa: If your parents are only planning to stay in Germany for up to 90 days, they may be eligible for a short-stay visa.
• Minors: If your parents are traveling with minors, there are additional requirements that must be met.

Overall, bringing your parents to Germany can be a complex process, but with careful planning and preparation, it is possible to navigate the procedures successfully.

In conclusion, obtaining a visa for parents in Germany can be a complex process, but it is possible with the right preparation and documentation. The German government recognizes the importance of family reunification and has created several visa options for parents of German citizens or residents.

If you are planning to bring your parents to Germany, you should research the different types of visas available and choose the one that best suits your needs. The most common options are the Schengen visa, the long-term visa, and the family reunion visa.

It is important to note that the application process for a visa can take several months, so it is recommended that you start the process as early as possible. You will need to provide detailed documentation, including proof of financial means, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.

Once your parents arrive in Germany, they will need to register with the local authorities and obtain a residence permit. They may also be required to take a German language course and attend an integration course.

Overall, bringing your parents to Germany can be a rewarding experience for both you and your family, but it requires careful planning and preparation. By following the guidelines set forth by the German government and providing all necessary documentation, you can ensure a smooth and successful visa application process.

Invitation Letter for Visitor Visa

How can I write a proper invitation letter for a visitor?

Do you wish to invite friends, family members or business partners to Germany? For third-country nationals to get a visitor visa, they need a letter of invitation on top of many other documents. With the invitation letter, you confirm that you want to invite a specific person to Germany. An invitation letter must meet particular requirements, which we describe in more detail below. You can find out more about other requirements of a visitor visa in our chapter " Visitor Visa ".

What do I need to know?

The letter of invitation does not have to be written in any particular form. So it can be formulated as a completely normal letter, but must contain all the necessary information. You will learn about the information needed in the following sections.

Important: An invitation letter for a business trip must contain the official company letterhead, the company stamp, and the managing director's signature.

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An invitation letter for a private visit must contain at least the following information:

• Your full name and address, as well as your phone number and email address
• Your identity card number or the number of your residence permit
• A copy of your ID or residence permit
• Full name, date of birth, passport number, and complete address of the person you wish to invite
• Evidence of your relationship or acquaintance with the person you wish to invite. These can be, for example, marriage or birth certificates or proof of previous meetings or letters, emails, etc.
• Purpose of the trip: e.g., to attend a wedding or a birthday. You should also describe the type of kinship or friendship you have, how long you have known each other, etc.
• Time frame and planned course for the scheduled visit
• Date and location
• Your signature

The invitation letter for a business visit must contain at least the following information:

• If the person invited is an employee: A letter from the person's employer explaining the reason and duration of the visit
• Purpose of the visit, i.e., description of what the visit is for and the objective behind it
• Period and the planned course of the visit, including flight numbers
• Information on where the invited person should be accommodated, e.g., the address of the hotel, etc

The host writes the invitation letter. So if you want to invite your relatives, acquaintances or business partners, write the invitation and then send it to the person you wish to invite to Germany. Then, they can present the invitation letter at the German embassy when applying for a visa.

A letter of invitation is not the same as a letter of commitment or "Verpflichtungserklärung". If the person you wish to invite does not have enough money to pay for the trip and their stay in Germany, they would need a so-called declaration of commitment ("Verpflichtungserklärung") in addition to the letter of invitation. You can learn more in our chapter " Declaration of commitment for a Visitor Visa ".

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Additional Links

Here is where and how you can apply for a Schengen visa for a stay of up to 90 days. 

Here are the requirements you need to meet to obtain a Schengen visa. 

Here you can find the contact information of the German embassy in your country. 

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Family reunification

Spouses and registered partners, parents and minor, unmarried children may migrate to Germany in order to join their family members in order to protect the institution of marriage and the family.

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As a matter of principle, the conditions vary according to whether you wish to come to Germany to join

• a German national ,
• an EU citizen or
• a third-country national .

Family members coming to Germany for the purpose of family reunification are allowed to work in Germany.

The legal basis

• Section 27 et seqq. of the Residence Act
• Section 3 of the EU Freedom of Movement Act (FreizügG/EU)

Sub-pages on this topic

• Subsequent immigration to join German nationals
• Reunification with EU nationals
• Subsequent immigration to join third-country nationals

Further information

Texts and articles.

• First steps

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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?

Get your visa by undefined, if you apply today .

Stay duration, visa validity.

✔ 90% visas get issued within days

I never wanted to have kids in the US. Now, I'm happily raising a toddler in Germany.

• Susannah Edelbaum got inspired to move from New York to Berlin 10 years ago while visiting friends.
• She ended up getting married and having a baby in Germany but has struggled with a lot of bureaucracy.
• She was impressed with the postpartum care and has no interest in going back to the US.

I didn't move to Berlin to get married and have a baby. I moved at 29 after visiting some friends. I had gotten the sense that if I didn't at least try to live in this city, which felt so much calmer, greener, and yet more alive than New York, I'd regret it. My cat and I arrived three months later.

That was 10 years ago, when Berlin was still called "poor, but sexy," and other twenty-somethings traveled to spend entire weekends in the city's techno clubs and live on the cheap in what used to be one of Europe's most affordable capitals. Even these days, cost of living in Berlin is 35% less expensive than New York, according to Numbeo .

I didn't expect to partner up and settle down, but pleasantly, that's what happened.

Getting married in Germany turned out to be so bureaucratically complicated that my boyfriend and I ended up going to Denmark to get hitched. This small Nordic country is Europe's equivalent of Las Vegas when it comes to streamlined marriage procedures.

And, when we had our baby in 2022, I moved on from puzzling over how to get into the city's tightly-guarded techno clubs to puzzling over how to get my toddler a spot at a Kita, or German day care . The latter is infinitely harder, it turns out.

Berlin is great for parents. That's probably why there are so many.

Germany offers excellent maternity care, including postpartum home visits by a midwife, and down the road, various degrees of subsidized day care — the exact setup varies state by state. But in Berlin both midwives and day care centers are in short supply, according to local news channel RBB24.

This became clear when I was just seven weeks into my pregnancy and at the gynecologist. She asked me if I'd started looking for a midwife. I hadn't. "Well, then you're already late," my doctor sighed.

Related stories

A few weeks later, I set an alarm and started calling the hospital that had been recommended. To register there, the hospital required expecting parents to call at exactly 12 weeks plus one day into pregnancy — try a day later, and they'd be full. Around 10 calls in, I got through.

A couple of months after that, we took a stab at the Kita Navigator, an online system aimed at helping parents find and contact daycares. Landing a Kita spot in Berlin is notoriously difficult — according to a 2023 report from the research foundation Bertelsmann Stiftung, the city is short around 17,000 places.

I'd heard parents-to-be should get on waiting lists while still expecting, with the goal of securing a place for an unborn child once they turned a year old. My husband and I — mystified as to how to enter the name and birthdate of a baby still in utero — quickly gave up on attempting to navigate the unnavigable Kita Navigator .

Then came the flurry of bureaucracy

For our son's German birth certificate, my own US birth certificate needed an apostille, an extra layer of authentication that this official document is indeed official.

For the baby's US citizenship, we needed to do a Consular Report of a Birth Abroad at the embassy. Off I went on an archaeological dig through our apartment for documentation to prove I'd previously lived in the US as an adult, as there's a residency requirement in order to pass on citizenship. Laid out end-to-end, everything we needed for the CRBA covered our bedroom floor.

To apply for Kindergeld, a monthly child subsidy, and Elterngeld, parental leave pay, there were paper applications that needed to be physically mailed off to various overburdened Berlin administrative offices. All I remember is running on about five hours of broken sleep per night, handing the baby off to my visiting mother-in-law in between nursing sessions, and tackling a pile of paperwork.

I'm thrilled to be raising a toddler in Berlin

Despite the late start, I found a midwife. The postpartum care she offered me and our newborn was excellent, and I wish it were standard everywhere. Besides weighing the baby, checking that breastfeeding was going well, cleaning his umbilical cord stump, and doing the first bath with us, she gave me week-by-week worksheets with gentle pelvic floor exercises , which I wound up translating for my friend in the US, who'd given birth the day before me and been given nothing of the sort.

As for Kita, when my son was a few months old, I walked him around our neighborhood for 90 minutes while he napped and I wrote down the contact information posted in the window of every day care we passed, then emailed them individually. That worked. Now a toddler, he loves his Kita. It took around thirty waitlists to get offered a single spot, but all you need is one.

I later learned that other expecting parents, particularly non-German speakers, pay self-styled experts to get certain tasks done, like applying for parental leave pay and navigating the Kita system. As a German-speaking household, we didn't go down this route.

Taken individually, no one task here is that difficult, it just felt like a lot altogether, lurching from one form to waitlist to the next, all while exhausted from pregnancy and the newborn months. But hey, the countervailing force of a safety net is a bureaucracy required to administer it. And I can hardly complain that the city's administrative offices are overburdened. People keep moving to Berlin , and I'm one of them.

My son understands everything he hears in both German and English. Getting around this city, where the public transit elevators work around 80% of the time and mostly don't smell like urine, is way better than anyone can say for New York's subway system.

Our biggest problem these days is the most non-problem a parent can have: Berlin has too many playgrounds. It's impossible to find a route anywhere from our apartment where we won't pass one, and our son always wants to stop and play.

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European Union adopts more favourable Schengen visa rules for Indians

Indian Nationals can now apply for a multiple entry Schengen visa with longer validity

On 18 April 2024, the European Commission adopted specific rules on the issuing of multiple entry visas to Indian nationals, which are more favourable than the standard rules of the Visa Code that applied to date. This new visa ‘cascade’ regime for Indian nationals residing in India who apply for Schengen (short-stay) visas in India will provide easier access to visas with multi-year validity for travellers with an established travel history, if the passport validity allows. 

According to the newly adopted visa “cascade” regime for India, Indian nationals can now be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years. The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa, if the passport has sufficient validity remaining. During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals.

This decision comes in the context of strengthened relations under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which seeks comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the EU and India, with facilitation of people-to-people contacts being of key aspect due to the importance of India as a partner for the EU. 

Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work. The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries (of which 25 are EU states): Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.