Germany passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of Germany

Embassy / VFSB1/B2 Visa · Tourist/Business (up to 180 days)

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

Not yet verified

Our latest check could not confirm these details against an official source, or found a conflict. Treat them as a starting point and confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you book.

Last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · B1/B2 Visa · Tourist/Business (up to 180 days)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Visa validity	1825 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	7–21 days
Government fee	$185
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Onward or return ticket	Not required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months

How to apply

1
Complete DS-160 form online
Fill out the nonimmigrant visa application form at ceac.state.gov and print the confirmation page.
2
Pay the visa application fee
Pay the non-refundable MRV fee (currently $185) via the designated payment portal (bank transfer or credit card).
3
Create profile and schedule appointment
Register on ustraveldocs.com, log in, and schedule a visa interview and biometrics appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Berlin or Consulate in Frankfurt.
4
Attend biometrics appointment
Visit the Visa Application Center (VAC) to have your fingerprints and photo taken. Arrive with passport and appointment confirmation.
5
Attend visa interview
Go to the U.S. Embassy/Consulate with all required documents; the consular officer will decide on your visa.
6
Wait for visa processing
Processing usually takes 7–21 days; you can track status online.
7
Collect passport with visa
Passport will be returned via courier or pickup point as selected during scheduling.
8
Check visa and prepare for travel
Verify all details (name, photo, validity) on the visa sticker. Bring DS-160 and I-94 on arrival.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay)
Must have at least two blank visa pages.
DS-160 confirmation page (with barcode)
Complete online form DS-160 and print confirmation.
Passport-style photograph (5x5 cm, white background)
Taken within last 6 months.

Travel

Travel itinerary (flight and hotel bookings)
Optional
Not mandatory but recommended.

Financial

Visa application fee receipt
Pay the non-refundable MRV fee.
Bank statements for last 3 months
Show sufficient funds for the trip.

Employment

Proof of employment or studies
Employment letter, pay slips, or student ID.

Supporting

Appointment confirmation letter (for interview and biometrics)
Schedule through the U.S. Visa Information Service.
Purpose of travel (e.g., invitation letter for business; travel plans for tourism)
Explain why you are visiting.
Proof of ties to Germany (e.g., property deed, rental contract, family certificate)
Demonstrate intent to return after visit.
Previous U.S. visas (if any)
Optional
Include copies of previous visas or entry stamps.
Form I-94 (for re-entry, if applicable)
Optional
Not needed for first-time applicants.
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Optional
Only if traveling with spouse.
Criminal record certificate (if applicable)
Optional
May be requested if you have a criminal history.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Sufficient to cover trip expenses (no fixed amount)

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Pay slips
Tax returns
Sponsor letter

If sponsored, provide sponsor's bank statements and a signed affidavit of support (I-134).

Good to know

ESTA is NOT applicable for this visa; you must apply for a B1/B2 visa in person.
Do not book non-refundable travel until visa is issued.
All documents in German or English must be provided; translations may be required.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to home country (risk of immigration)

Provide strong evidence of employment, property, or family in Germany.

Incomplete or inaccurate DS-160 form

Double-check all answers; do not omit any travel history.

Criminal record or visa violations

Disclose truthfully; consult an attorney if needed.

Failed to demonstrate purpose of trip

Prepare a clear itinerary and invitation if applicable.

FAQ

Do citizens of Germany need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of Germany need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B1/B2 Visa · Tourist/Business (up to 180 days).

How long can citizens of Germany stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United States visa cost for citizens of Germany?

Government fee: $185.

How long does United States visa processing take?

Typically 7–21 days.

What documents do citizens of Germany need for the United States?

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay); DS-160 confirmation page (with barcode); Visa application fee receipt; Passport-style photograph (5x5 cm, white background); Appointment confirmation letter (for interview and biometrics); Purpose of travel (e.g., invitation letter for business; travel plans for tourism); and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/de/de/

Sources

ustraveldocs.com

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