Many non-EU tourists want to visit Germany. They are likely to visit Berlin, Munich, Cologne and other German cities.   The German government has simplified the visa application process for such tourists. Anyone can apply for a Schengen Visa via post or directly at any German Embassy. However, remember that this type of visa is only valid for 90 days within the course of 6 months.

The German visa procedure can be daunting from the start. A valid passport, a Schengen Visa application form, flight itinerary and hotel reservations are just the beginning. It can get even more complicated if you apply for the visa in another country than your own. Just imagine how much time it takes to apply for a visa if you’re not even living in Germany or were born in another country and don’t live in Germany for many years – or maybe ever!

In order to visit Germany for tourism or for a short stay (maximum 90 days) for other purpose, you may need a Schengen visa. The following information serves as a guide to passport holders of various countries who wish to travel to Germany and its surrounding countries, in case you have any questions about requirements or the application process, you can obtain specific information on the Embassy of Germany website.

Germany Tourist & Visitor Visa

Germany Schengen Visa (Tourist/Visit To Family & Friends in Germany)

The Old Town Hall in Bamberg, the Schwerin Castle, Nuremberg Christmas Market, Octoberfest, Cologne Cathedral, and many other places and events in Germany have been very alluring for travellers around the world.  In addition, the variety of beers, delicious bread and sausages, people’s hospitality and much more have attracted 459.6 million visitors to the Federal Republic of Germany in 2017 alone.

However, getting into Germany is not an easy piece of cake for everyone since a visa is required for many. Although Germany has reached visa facilitation agreements with many countries, there are still many more worldwide, the citizens who need to obtain a visa, even for short stays and tourism.

If you plan to visit Germany for a period shorter than three months for either visiting family members or friends or sightseeing, you may need a Schengen visa.

In this article, you can learn more about a Schengen visa for tourism / visiting Germany, the application process, requirements, fees, and much more.

What is a Tourist/Visitor Visa to Germany?

A Schengen Tourism / Visitor visa to Germany is a visa established by the Schengen states, which allows its holder to visit Germany and all of the 26 Schengen member countries. It is issued in the form of a sticker affixed to the passport of the traveller.

The Schengen visa for tourism purposes or visiting friends and family members limits you to only travelling and sightseeing throughout the Schengen area.

Please note that as a holder of a Schengen tourist visa, you are not allowed to work or study; thus, you must apply for a student visa or work visa (national visa) or other visa types according to your purpose of entry if you wish to enter Germany for other than tourism.