What documents are required for a Germany Schengen visa?

A valid passport, biometric photo (35×45mm), completed VIDEX form, travel insurance covering €30,000+, confirmed flight reservation, accommodation proof, cover letter, bank statements (last 3 months), and employment or study proof.

How much is the Germany Schengen visa fee?

The standard adult short-stay Schengen visa fee for Germany is €90. Children aged 6–12 pay €45. Some categories (students, researchers, family of EU nationals) are exempt.

Do I apply to Germany if it is my main destination?

Yes — apply at the German embassy or consulate (or VFS/TLScontact centre) when Germany is your main destination, or your first Schengen entry point if all countries have equal duration.

Country guide · Schengen

How to Apply for a Germany Schengen Visa

Q: How long does a Germany Schengen visa take?

Germany typically processes short-stay Schengen visa applications in 15 calendar days from the appointment. Peak season (May–August) or extra checks can extend this to 30–45 days, so apply at least 4–6 weeks before travel.

A step-by-step guide to preparing a German embassy-ready Schengen application — documents, appointment booking, processing times, and the small details that decide approvals.

1. Confirm Germany is the right embassy

Apply through Germany when it is your main destination (longest stay), or your first point of entry if you're spending equal time in multiple Schengen states. Applications go through the German embassy, consulate, or an authorised visa centre (VFS Global or TLScontact) in your country of residence.

2. Required documents checklist

Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your return, with 2 blank pages
Two recent biometric photos (35×45mm, white background)
Completed VIDEX application form, printed and signed
Travel medical insurance with €30,000+ coverage across all Schengen states
Confirmed round-trip flight reservation (do not buy the ticket yet)
Hotel bookings or invitation letter for the entire stay
Detailed day-by-day travel itinerary
Cover letter explaining the trip purpose, dates, and funding
Last 3 months of bank statements (stamped)
Employment letter, payslips, or business registration
Proof of ties to home country (property, family, ongoing contract)

3. Book your appointment

Slots at German missions fill up 4–8 weeks in advance, especially May–August. Book through the official portal for your country as soon as you have flights and accommodation reservations in place. Bring all originals plus one photocopy per document to your appointment.

4. Write a strong cover letter

Keep it to one page. State who you are, the exact travel dates, cities you'll visit, who is paying for the trip, and confirm you'll return before the visa expires. Reference your supporting documents by name so the officer can cross-check quickly.

5. Processing time

Standard processing is 15 calendar days from your appointment. Allow up to 30–45 days during peak season or if the consulate requests additional documents. Never submit less than 15 working days before travel, and never more than 6 months ahead.

6. Common reasons for refusal

Insurance below €30,000 or not valid across all Schengen states
Bank statements showing sudden large deposits without explanation
Itinerary that doesn't match flight and hotel bookings
Weak ties to home country (no job letter, no return proof)
Cover letter missing dates or purpose

Frequently asked questions

How long does a Germany Schengen visa take?

Typically 15 calendar days; up to 30–45 days in peak season.

How much is the visa fee?

€90 for adults, €45 for children aged 6–12.

Can I apply if Germany is only a transit country?

No — apply at the embassy of the country where you'll spend the most time. Use Germany only if it's your main destination or first entry with equal duration.

Build your Germany-ready application file

GetTravixa generates your personalised checklist, cover letter, itinerary, and insurance summary tailored to the German embassy requirements.