Germany Visa Types and Requirements

With its magnificent landscapes and historical monuments, Germany has a rich cultural background which attracts sightseers from all over the world. From Brandenburg Gate in Berlin to the Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany offers a myriad of wonderful tourist destinations. The Federal Republic of Germany is one of the most powerful European economies, and therefore, many international firms wish to establish and expand their business in the German nation. What is a German Schengen Visa? Germany is one of the founders of the European Union and it became a member state of the Schengen Area in 1995. According to the Schengen Agreement, the citizens of the Schengen member states can travel visa-free throughout the whole zone. However, the nationals of non-Schengen countries are permitted to enter with one unified document known as the Schengen Visa. The short-stay Schengen visa (C-Visa) allows its holders to reside in Germany for 3 months within a 180-day period. Those planning to stay in Germany for more than 90 days need to apply for a long-stay visa (D-Visa). Types of Germany Visa The German government allows citizens of 62 countries to enter its premises free of visa for a maximum period of 90 days. The nationals of the rest of the countries like the UK need to secure a Germany visa from the UK before planning to visit Germany. Depending on the purpose of their visit, applicants can choose from the following types of visas - 1. Transit visa - Those who have to change their flight or any other form of commute in Germany to reach their destination in a different nation need to acquire the Germany transit visa. 2. Tourist and visitor visa - This type of visa is suitable for those people who wish to enter Germany for visiting their friends or relatives, or solely for sightseeing and recreation. 3. Business visa - It is for those applicants who are seeking a German visa for activities related to business. 4. Medical visa - This visa is required by people who need to receive medical care in the German nation. 5. Student visa - It is a long-term visa for students who wish to pursue a course at any institution affiliated to the German university. 6. Employment visa - It is issued to individuals with a job offer in Germany. Documents Required The requirements for obtaining a Germany visa differ from one country to another. For example, if a British citizen wants to apply for a Germany visa from London, then he has to submit valid proof of his residence in the UK. Also, additional documents may be required depending on the type of visa. The following are the common documents that are necessary for every person who wishes to apply for a Germany visa - 1. Duly completed application form with answers that comply with the information provided in the other documents. rn2. A passport issued within the last 10 years and with a validity of at least 3 months beyond the planned stay in Germany.rn3. Two identical passport-size photos taken within the last 3 monthsrn4. Travel itinerary that includes proof of round-trip flight and travel accommodations. rn5. Travel health insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros. rn6. Proof of financial means which could be a recent bank statement.