---
title: Germany visa for citizens of India
description: "Citizens of India need a visa for Germany and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €90 + €18 service fee. Processing: 15–45 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/germany/india
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Germany visa for citizens of India

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.*

Application site: https://india.diplo.de

## 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

- **Passport (issued within last 10 years, valid 3+ months beyond return)** (Identity): With at least two blank pages.
- **Two recent biometric photos** (Identity): 35x45mm, white background, per ICAO standards.
- **Completed Schengen application form** (Identity): Signed and filled via VFS/consular portal.
- **Travel medical insurance (min EUR 30,000 coverage)** (Travel): Valid for entire Schengen area and stay duration.
- **Flight reservation / itinerary** (Travel): Round-trip booking covering the Schengen stay.
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): Hotel bookings or invitation letter covering all nights.
- **Bank statements (last 6 months)** (Financial): Stamped and signed by the bank.
- **Proof of employment** (Employment): Employment letter, payslips, or business/registration documents if self-employed.
- **Cover letter stating purpose of travel** (Supporting): Explaining itinerary and ties to India.
- **Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)** (Supporting, optional): With host's ID/residence proof and sponsorship declaration if applicable.
- **No-objection certificate from employer/educational institution** (Supporting, optional): Confirming approved leave and return to position.
- **ITR / Form 16 (last 2-3 years)** (Financial, optional): Supports financial standing.

## 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.

## FAQs

### 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

- [Apply for a visa | vfsglobal](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/deu/apply-visa)
- [Welcome to VFS Global | vfsglobal](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/deu)
- [Checklist for a Schengen visa for the purpose of Visit/ Family ...](https://india.diplo.de/in-en/2674162-2674162)
- [india.diplo.de](https://india.diplo.de)

## More

- [Germany visa for every passport](/visa/germany)
- [Every destination for India passport holders](/visa/passport/india)