Getting a German Visa in 2025 Just Got Easier – Here’s What’s New!

All types of German visa including student visas, Opportunity Card, work visas, training visas, family reunification visas, tourism visas, and more can use the online portal. 

If you are unsure what visa to get, you can use the free Visa Navigator on the Consular Services Portal tool to help you. 

Please note, the online portal launched in January 2025 and is rolling out by location. It may not be available in all countries yet. However, you will see what locations once you select your visa type and enter your country of residence. 

Yes, this new online application process on the Consular Services Portal is being launched globally. It is currently in the rollout phase.

Once you select your visa type and input your country of residence, you will see if your local mission has already become available via the online portal. 

No, if you've already applied for a German visa using the old process, there's no need to cancel your application.

The new Consular Services Portal, which launched on January 1, 2025, is designed to streamline future applications, but this does not impact already submitted applications. 

Once your documents are verified in the Consular Services Portal, you need to book an in-person appointment at the nearest German embassy, mission, or consulate.

To do this, log back into the portal, where you’ll see available dates and times based on your location.

At the appointment, officials will check your original documents, verify your identity, and collect biometric data like fingerprints and a photo.

We recommend scheduling your appointment as soon as possible, as slots may fill up quickly. You can also track your application status in the portal to stay updated on any next steps.

During your appointment, officials will verify your identity, review original documents, and collect biometric data such as fingerprints and photographs.

Please double-check the list of required documents listed on your application via the Consular Services Portal, as each visa and country has its own specifics. 

• Valid Passport
• Recent Passport-Sized Photographs 
• Proof of Financial Means (usually Blocked Account proof)
• Enrollment Letter (for students)
• Motivation Letter (for students)
• Travel Itinerary
• Travel Health Insurance

Your actual visa appointment is still in person. 

Although you submit your initial application and documents online, an in-person appointment at a German embassy, mission, or consulate is still required. This is for security and authentication reasons. You will be able to schedule this in person appointment after your online application has been reviewed by officials. 

During this appointment, officials will verify your identity, review original documents, and collect biometric data such as fingerprints and photographs.