Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Visa for Germany from India

How to Apply Visa for Germany from India

Don’t miss out on German delicacies like Sauerbraten and local beers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or simply beautiful scenery, Germany has something for everyone.

In this blog, we will guide you on how to apply visa for Germany from India providing clear and detailed information on requirements, application steps, and tips for a successful application.

Choosing the Right Visa

Depending on the reason why you are travelling to Germany, decide the type of visa you need. The visas mentioned below are short-stay visas. With these visas, you can stay up to 90 days.

• Tourist visa
• Business visa
• Airport transit visa
• visa for religious events
• visa for medical treatment
• Exhibition or trade fair visa
• Internship visa

How to Apply Visa for Germany from India

How to apply visa for Germany from India is a straightforward process if you understand the requirements and steps involved.

A. Where to Apply?

VFS is a global visa application centre authorised by the German embassy in India. You should hand in the visa application in person at the VFS centre, which has branches in all the major cities of India. You can search for the nearest VFS centre using the link below.

Germany Embassy in India

B. Scheduling an Appointment

How to apply visa to Germany from India is easy and simple. It won’t take much of your time. Simply follow the steps to book an appointment for the visa interview.

1. First, go to the VFS Global website and select the “book an appointment” section to create an account.
2. If you already have an account, just log in to your account.
3. You have to select Germany as the visiting country and India as a residing country.
4. Then select the type of visa you are applying for and the VFS centre where you will apply in person.
5. Provide all the information about your passport details and other necessary documents.
6. Select a date from the calendar. Choose the date you are available for the appointment.

C. German Visa Checklist

• If you are employed:

  • Your work contract
  • A letter from your employer

• If you are self-employed:

  • Business License
  • Recent bank statements
  • Income tax returns

• If you are a student:

  • Proof of your student status

• If you are retired:

  • Pension proof for the last 3 months

• If someone else is sponsoring you:

  • Proof of relationship with your sponsor
  • A copy of their passport data page
  • Their recent bank statements
  • Proof of their employment (if applicable)

For a complete list of how to apply visa for Germany from India, refer to the German visa checklist from the German embassy in India.

Craft your perfect adventure with a personalised travel itinerary!

Required Documents

You have to submit two sets of documents listed below for how to apply visa for Germany from India.

• Fill and sign the German visa application form. You can download and print it from the VFS global website. Ensure that you have filled in the correct details.
• Your valid passport must have two blank pages, be issued within the last ten years, and be valid for three months after you leave Germany.
• Give a photograph of yourself taken within 6 months. The photograph should be in accordance with the Schengen visa guidelines.
• Proof of residence in India, like utility bill
• Residency permit
• Travel medical insurance covering EUR 30,000
• Provide proof of accommodation during your stay in Germany.
• Submit the travel itinerary, including the reserved flight tickets.
• Proof of sufficient funds that you may spend during your stay in Germany.
• An invitation letter, if someone from Germany is inviting you, states their relationship and the reason for their invitation. If they are sponsoring, mention that also in the proof.

Documents for a Minor

• An application that both parents have signed.
• Evidence of custody in cases where only one parent is in charge of the child.
• Both the parents’ original and duplicate passports.
• Birth certificates for minors.
• A notarised travel consent letter is required if one parent or legal guardian cannot visit the embassy or visa centre.

Germany Visa Cost for India

The visa cost for Germany from India may change. Consult at the appropriate embassy for accurate cost details. 

• Application fee for adults: EUR 80 (equivalent to INR 7,244.95)
• Fee for minor applicants (between 6-12 years of age): EUR 40 (equivalent to INR 3,622.48)
• Fee for children under 6: Free
• VFS Global Visa Application Center Service fee: INR 1,720

Source: Germany Embassy

Germany Visa Processing Time in India

Your visa application will be processed in six to fifteen days. However, depending on the volume of applications, processing timeframes may occasionally take longer. Please refrain from contacting the embassy to inquire about the status of your application; you will be informed as soon as a decision is made.

You can apply for your visa up to six months before your travel but no later than fifteen days beforehand. It is suggested that you make an appointment as soon as possible because you never know when the visa processing will take place. Also, follow the guidelines to apply for a visa for Germany from India thoroughly. 

Submitting Your Application

After scheduling an appointment in your nearest VFS Centre, follow the steps to complete the process.

Organise the Required Documents

You must start collecting the documents listed in the how-to apply for a visa for Germany from India guidelines, including your passport, visa application, and all the proofs. If you don’t have any of these, arrange them with the authorised person before entering the appointment.

Pay the Visa Fee

Depending on the embassy or consulate to which you are applying, you must pay the visa application fees before or after your appointment. However, you must have it ready at the time of appointment and choose either cash or card payment.

Hand Over Your Application

Bring all the documents to the VFS Global Center at your appointment. Submit the documents, attend the interview, and answer all the questions they ask about your Germany trip.

• After submitting your application, you must wait for the embassy to decide. This usually takes 6 to 15 days, but it may vary depending on your situation. 
• Track your application status by entering the reference number they gave you at the time of your appointment from the VFS Global office.
• You can also receive an SMS regarding your application status if you opt for an SMS alert.
• Once you receive the SMS alert or call to collect the passport, you can go in person to the VFS centre to collect the passport with the receipt of the visa fee.
• If you cannot collect your passport in person, you can also opt for a courier service, which will deliver your passport to your doorstep.

Ready to embark on your next adventure? Explore visa options and start your journey today!

Know More! Know More!Scan QR Code To Download The App

Conclusion

Understanding how to apply visa for Germany from India is essential for a successful application process. You can navigate the process by following the outlined steps, including selecting the right visa type, scheduling an appointment, gathering necessary documents, and paying the visa fee. 

It’s also important to note the processing times and requirements may vary, so you should stay informed and reach out to the German embassy or VFS Global for any further inquiries.