Germany Must Accelerate Visa Process: Minister

Faster visa approvals for Germany are being sought. Measures would soon be taken to accelerate the processing of German visas at the consulates.

According to the Federal Labor Minister of Germany, Hubertus Heil, Germany should start applying rules that would allow for faster visa approvals. The Minister was speaking at the 24th Tourism Summit recently held in Berlin. Each year, the Tourism Summit held at Berlin brings together industry leaders, stakeholders, and politicians.

Hartmann stated that Schengen visas for Germany should be approved faster by the authorities. As per Hartmann, Expediting the visa process would boost Germany's travel and tourism sector. He also pointed out that a faster Germany Schengen visa approval would benefit various regions throughout the country and not only the popular tourist destinations in Germany.

Further, Minister Heil commented on the existing processing time for German visas at German consulates overseas. The Minister assured that measures would soon be taken to accelerate the processing of German visas at the consulates.

Along with Minister Heil, many others too were of the opinion that changes must be made in Germany visa applications. The President of the Federal Association of the German Tourism Industry Sören Hartmann also highlighted the importance of approving visa applications quicker.

Foreign nationals that hold the passport of a country that has not reached any visa-free travel agreement with the EU must get a Schengen visa to enter Germany for tourism purposes.

Do I need a visa to enter Germany as a tourist?

Germany is a part of the Schengen Area. Nationals of 62 countries can enter Germany as tourists without the need to get a visa.

However, the following nationals require a tourist visa for Germany that would allow them a maximum stay of 90 days in a 6-month period.

What documents are required for a Germany Tourist visa?

You will need to provide the following -

• Visa application form (completed, printed and signed)
• 2 recent passport-format photos (taken within last 3 months)
• Valid passport, with a minimum 3 month’s validity left after planned stay in Germany
• Flight ticket bookings for the round trip
• Travel health insurance
• Hotel accommodation in Germany
• Proof of funds
• Employment status

Additional documents might be needed.

How can I apply for a Germany Tourist visa?

Keep in mind that you should apply at least 3 weeks before your date of intended travel. With the new rules, you can apply for a Schengen visa 6 months before your trip.

Step 1: Download Schengen Visa Application Form.

Step 2: Fill up the form. Print 2 copies. Sign both copies.

Step 3: Pay visa fees. Keep the payment confirmation receipt with you.

Step 4: Book the visa interview.

Step 5: Gather all required documents.

Step 6: Attend your Schengen visa interview at the Germany Embassy/Consulate.

Step 7: Visa decision. While the general processing time is 2 weeks, you can expect to get a decision within 30 days.

Submitting a complete application improves your chances of visa success.

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