Zimbabwe passport → Germany

Germany visa for citizens of Zimbabwe

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days)

Citizens of Zimbabwe 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 Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90 + €25 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months and proof of accommodation

How to apply

1
Complete the application form
Fill out the Schengen visa application form online via the German embassy portal.
2
Gather documents
Collect all required documents as per the checklist.
3
Book an appointment
Schedule a personal appointment at the German Embassy Harare or VFS centre.
4
Submit application in person
Attend appointment to submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and pay fee.
5
Wait for processing
Processing usually takes 15–30 days; avoid booking tickets until approved.
6
Collect passport
Return to the embassy or VFS to collect passport with visa (or have it couriered if available).

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond departure from Schengen area
Round-trip flight reservation
Shows entry and exit dates
Proof of accommodation
Hotel booking or invitation letter

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Sufficient funds to cover stay

Employment

Proof of employment or leave letter
Employer letter stating position, salary, and leave approved

Supporting

Completed visa application form
Print and sign the form
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Biometric style, white background
Travel health insurance
Minimum coverage 30,000 EUR for Schengen area
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Briefly outline itinerary and intent to return
Copy of previous Schengen visa (if applicable)
Optional
To show travel history

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of 50 EUR per day of stay

Bank statements
Pay slips
Sponsorship letter

Provide evidence of sufficient funds for entire stay and return.

Good to know

Visa applications must be submitted at least 15 days before departure but no more than 6 months in advance.
Biometrics (fingerprints) are required at each application; valid for 5 years for Schengen.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear financial means

Provide clear bank statements showing steady income and sufficient balance.

Missing or incorrect documents

Double-check the checklist provided by the embassy before appointment.

Travel insurance not valid for Schengen area

Purchase insurance that covers at least 30,000 EUR and is valid in all Schengen states.

FAQ

Do citizens of Zimbabwe need a visa for Germany?

Citizens of Zimbabwe need a visa for Germany and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of Zimbabwe stay in Germany?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90 + €25 service fee.

How long does Germany visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Zimbabwe need for Germany?

Completed visa application form; Valid passport; Two recent passport-sized photographs; Travel health insurance; Round-trip flight reservation; Proof of accommodation; and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Germany?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

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

Sources

zimbabwe.diplo.de

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