Germany Visa Application – 7 Steps to Get a German Visa
Germany has been receiving visitors from far and near for some time now. Some of these visitors need to obtain a Germany visa to gain entrance, while others have free entry into the beautiful country of Germany.
Basically, Germany is a member state of the Schengen area, so if you’re a citizen of a Schengen member country, you wouldn’t be needing a visa for a short visit to Germany. However, if you’re not, you must start preparing to obtain a Germany visa now!.
In this article, you will learn about the different types of Germany visa, the requirements to get a German visa, as well as the seven easy steps to apply for it. You don’t want to miss a single step!- Read on!.
Should I obtain a Visa to Enter Germany?
The decision to obtain a visa to enter Germany depends on your nationality and country of residence. Currently, there are about 62 countries that have visa-free access to Germany for business, tourism, or visitation for a period of 90 days.
However, if you are a member of a third-world country with passports that have not attained an agreement with the Schengen States, you will have to acquire a German visa. Moreso, even if you are a citizen of the Schengen member country and you want to visit Germany for purposes other than tourism, visitation, or business you might have to obtain a German visa.
Types of German visa?
There are varieties of visa options to opt for, depending on the purpose of your visit to Germany. You may decide to travel to Germany for employment opportunities, schooling, or even for permanent residence, all these options have their different visa package.
Here are the different types of German visas you can opt for:
#1. Germany Transit Visa
This is a type of visa that is specific for individuals that need to enter on one of the German harbors, passing through Germany before getting to their final destination.
#2. Germany Tourist Visa
The German tourist visa is for tourism. So, you can apply for this visa type if you want to visit Germany for exploration, vacation, sightseeing, and lots more.
#3. Germany business visa
This Visa is specific for business. Therefore you can apply for this visa if you want to take part in any business-related activities.
#4. Germany visitor visa
The Germany visitor visa is best for you if you want to visit your friends, family, or relatives that reside in Germany.
#5. Germany medical visa
This German medical visa is specifically for individuals who want to receive medical treatment in Germany. Therefore if you have a medical or illness condition, you may need to apply for this Visa to seek medical treatment in Germany.
#6. Germany official visit visa
The Germany official visit visa is specifically for the purpose of official visits to Germany.
#7. German cultural visa
If you want to attend any religious, cultural, or sports activity in Germany, you can opt for the Germany cultural visa option. Also, if you want to partake in any filmmaking activities or you’re part of a filmmaking crew, this visa type is best for you.
#8. Germany training or internship visa
This is the ideal visa type for you if you want to visit Germany for an internship or to attend a particular training.
#9. Job seeker visa
The Germany job seeker visa type that allows you to move to Germany to seek employment. If you can get an employment opportunity within 6 months, you will get a residence permit or work permit.
Germany visa requirements
Without a doubt, to apply for a German visa, you must prepare all necessary and supporting documents for your application process. Here are some of the very requirements and crucial documents you need to acquire
- Two passport photographs: This passport photo must be identical, sharp, clear, and taken not more than 3 months ago.
- Visa application form: Undoubtedly, it is important to complete your visa application form with no errors. Also, you must fill in your correct information and data.
- Valid passport: Your passport or travel documents must not be older than 10 years. It must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned date of leaving Germany, having at least two extra pages
- Declaration form: You can get your decoration from the German authorities in your home country. You will have to sign this document and confirm that all information and documents provided are authentic to the best of your belief and knowledge.
- Health insurance: Without a doubt, this is a very important document for your application. Moreso, you would have to obtain it before your application. It must be a minimum of €30,000 to cover any medical emergency you may encounter in Germany.
- Proof of fund: Your proof of fund is a statement of account that attest to the fact that you can do just fine in Germany pending the time you get a suitable job.
- Proof of accommodation: Basically, your proof of accommodation could be hotel booking or proof of house rent.
- Evidence of Civil status: The proof of your civil status could be your birth certificate, marriage certificate, or any other form of civil identity.
Germany Visa Application: 7 Steps to Get a German Visa
Applying for a Germany visa is relatively easy to process. However, in order not to make things difficult, you must prepare your documents and diligently follow the steps given below to have a successful application.
Step one: Prepare your visa application
The very first step to obtaining a German visa is to get the application form. You will need to fill in your data, and tender your signature on it.
Step two: Compile all necessary documents
After preparing and signing your visa application it is important to compile all necessary documents needed for your interview. The list of the document has been provided above, ensure to get all ready for your interview process.
Step three: Make an appointment for a visa interview
And yes!, you will need to book an appointment for a visa interview at the German Embassy or consulate in your home country. You will not be attended to if you do not book an appointment beforehand.
Step four: Attend the interview at the appropriate embassy
There are German embassies/consulates in different countries. However, if you cannot find a German Embassy in your country, you can visit the visa center that is affiliated with Germany for your interview. Moreso, lateness is highly prohibited- be there on time!
Step five: submit the visa application
At the German embassy/consulate you visit, you will have to submit your printed application and other supporting documents for clarification and verification. Note that you must arrange all your documents in order of the checklist you will be provided with. Also, ensure that your application form is fully signed and complete.
Step six: Entering application information
Upon verification of your application, information will be entered into the online system at the German Embassy or consulate you visit. Also, your biometric data will be collected, after which you will get a printed copy of your application.
You will have to apprehend your signature on the printed form you get at the consulate/embassy, but before that, you must cross-check to confirm that your data is complete.
Step seven: Await your result
Upon successful completion of your German visa, you can await your results. Your application will be processed and you will be communicated the results in due time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Germany giving visas now?
Yes, Germany is giving visas to people from certain countries. To find out if your country is eligible, you can visit the German embassy or consulate website in your country.
What is the blue card in Germany?
The blue card is a work permit for highly skilled workers which was introduced in Germany in 2012. It is valid for up to four years and allows holders to live and work in Germany with their families. To be eligible for a blue card, applicants must have a university degree or an equivalent qualification, and their annual salary must be at least €50,800.
How can I permanently live in Germany?
There are a few ways to permanently live in Germany. One way is to get a job in Germany and then apply for a residency permit. Another way is to marry a German citizen or have children with a German citizen. You can also apply for permanent residency if you have been living in Germany for a certain number of years and meet other requirements.
Can I move to Germany without a job?
Yes, you can move to Germany without a job. However, you will need to be able to support yourself financially while you are looking for work. You may also need to prove that you have enough money to cover your living expenses.
Is life hard in Germany?
Life in Germany is not hard, but it can be expensive. The cost of living in Germany is high, but most people earn a good salary. The infrastructure is excellent, and there are many opportunities for people who want to work.
Conclusion
Without a doubt, Germany is a livable place to live in, with promises of a better life for foreigners, permanent residents, and citizens. For whatever reason you are getting the Germany visa, you will definitely find it worth it.
