India passport → Germany

Germany visa for citizens of India

Embassy / VFSSchengen short-stay visa (Type C)

Citizens of India need a visa for Germany and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Schengen short-stay visa (Type C)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90 + €18 service fee
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements covering last 6 months

How to apply

1
Determine correct visa type and jurisdiction
Identify the main destination and the VFS centre handling your state of residence.
2
Complete the online application form
Fill the Schengen application on the VFS/consular portal and print it.
3
Book an appointment at VFS Global
Appointments are mandatory and should be booked well in advance.
4
Gather all required documents
Prepare originals plus photocopies per the checklist.
5
Attend the in-person appointment
Submit documents, pay fees, and provide fingerprints (biometrics).
6
Track application status
Use the VFS tracking reference to monitor progress.
7
Collect passport
Pick up in person or via courier once a decision is made.

Documents checklist

Identity

Passport (issued within last 10 years, valid 3+ months beyond return)
With at least two blank pages.
Two recent biometric photos
35x45mm, white background, per ICAO standards.
Completed Schengen application form
Signed and filled via VFS/consular portal.

Travel

Travel medical insurance (min EUR 30,000 coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen area and stay duration.
Flight reservation / itinerary
Round-trip booking covering the Schengen stay.
Proof of accommodation
Hotel bookings or invitation letter covering all nights.

Financial

Bank statements (last 6 months)
Stamped and signed by the bank.
ITR / Form 16 (last 2-3 years)
Optional
Supports financial standing.

Employment

Proof of employment
Employment letter, payslips, or business/registration documents if self-employed.

Supporting

Cover letter stating purpose of travel
Explaining itinerary and ties to India.
Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
Optional
With host's ID/residence proof and sponsorship declaration if applicable.
No-objection certificate from employer/educational institution
Optional
Confirming approved leave and return to position.

Proof of funds

Bank statements (6 months)
Payslips
ITR/Form 16
Sponsorship declaration if hosted

Applicants should show sufficient funds, commonly cited as approx. EUR 45-100 per day of stay.

Good to know

Airport transit visa (Category A) is not required for stays up to 24 hours in the international transit area.
Biometric enrollment is mandatory; fingerprints are valid for 59 months.
Apply no earlier than 6 months before travel and allow up to 45 days processing.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient proof of funds

Provide 6 months of consistent, stamped bank statements.

Unclear purpose of travel

Submit a detailed cover letter and complete itinerary.

Invalid or missing travel insurance

Ensure EUR 30,000 medical coverage valid across all Schengen states.

Previous visa violations or overstays

Disclose travel history honestly and demonstrate strong ties to India.

FAQ

Do citizens of India need a visa for Germany?

Citizens of India need a visa for Germany and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen short-stay visa (Type C).

How long can citizens of India stay in Germany?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Germany visa cost for citizens of India?

Government fee: €90 + €18 service fee.

How long does Germany visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of India need for Germany?

Passport (issued within last 10 years, valid 3+ months beyond return); Two recent biometric photos; Completed Schengen application form; Travel medical insurance (min EUR 30,000 coverage); Flight reservation / itinerary; Proof of accommodation; and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Germany?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://india.diplo.de. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

Plan your trip to Germany

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