If you want to visit Germany or live there as an expat, then you need to apply for a German visa before traveling there. The Germany visa application process can be confusing, but this guide will help make it easy to understand and apply for the German visa that’s right for you. Let’s dive in!
Just when you thought you had your travel plans set for 2022, you realize that the country you want to visit, Germany, requires its own visa! How does one apply for the Germany Visa Application? Fortunately, the process isn’t too complicated or time-consuming. You’ll need to gather some paperwork and fill out forms to apply, but it should be smooth sailing after that. In this guide, we’ll look at everything you need to know about applying for the 2022 Germany Visa Application.
The best time to apply
If you’re looking at Germany visa requirements, your best time to apply will be from March through July of each year. During these months, federal offices are accepting applications. If you apply during a busy season (January through June), or close to an important German holiday, expect longer wait times as processing times slow down. If you’re getting ready to apply but would like more information about a particular visa type or country requirement, fill out our Free Assessment form so that one of our immigration experts can help answer any questions that might pop up.
Who should not apply
If you plan on studying, working or staying in Germany for longer than 3 months, then you are required to apply for a residence permit. Germany tourist visa is only valid till a stay of 90 days. The first thing an individual has to do after his/her arrival is apply for a residence permit at German Embassy/Consulate where they will be living. After applying, they will receive their Residence Permit which entitles them with certain rights while they live in Germany.
Documents needed for the visa application
To apply for a Germany work visa, you’ll need to provide certain documents that show you meet certain criteria. If you plan on applying as an employee, your employer will most likely provide you with all of these documents. There are also two main categories of requirements: one showing employment, and one showing financial stability. You’ll want to begin gathering these documents in advance, because they take time to assemble. Here are a few things you should have ready before beginning your application process
First Steps After Applying
First, don’t worry. Your application can be sent from any country, with a requirement that you must spend only three months of a single year outside of Germany while your visa is valid. Assuming you’re a successful applicant, when you enter Germany you will need to apply for a residence permit at one of your local registration offices (Landes- oder Bezirksamt). There are very few documents that are actually required when applying; an English translation of your passport should suffice. If you’re married or have children in tow, their birth certificates will also be needed.
What Happens after Sending an Online Application
Once you have sent an online application, an e-mail will be sent back to you confirming that your application has been received. This is a standard message, so there is no need to respond. Your visa application has now entered our system and will be processed as soon as possible. Once it has been fully processed, you will receive an automated message informing you whether or not your visa has been approved. This can take up to two weeks during peak times of year (May-August). If we require additional information from you, we will send a letter via post with instructions on how to provide that information. In some cases, we may also call you directly in order to clarify or confirm certain details of your application prior to processing it further.
Schedule a Face-to-Face Interview at German Embassy
Generally, when applying for a German visa, you will be required to schedule an appointment at your nearest German embassy or consulate. Appointments are important because they allow consular officers an opportunity to meet with you in person (in most cases), review your documents, ask questions about your application, etc. The entire process can take up to two hours—and it is crucial that you arrive early. There may also be a short interview involved—so bring your best poker face and prepare some answers beforehand (just in case).
Tips After Receiving a Response from German Embassy/Consulate
Once you’ve received a response, you’ll have a visa sticker pasted in your passport. You may find some guidance or tips on what to do after receiving a response at German Embassy’s website (however, their tips may change from time to time, so make sure you check with your embassy/consulate). For example, if you wish to travel within Schengen zone as soon as possible after receiving an approval from Germany Embassy/Consulate, check flight availability now and don’t forget about planning how much money you need for traveling in all these countries. Remember that Schengen visa allows travelers only 1 entry into Germany.