Plan for Germany

Planning a Business Trip to Germany: What You Need to Know for Germany Business Visa

If you’re gearing up for a business trip to Germany, securing a business visa is essential. While citizens of certain countries enjoy visa exemptions for stays up to 90 days, your nationality ultimately determines whether you need a visa or not.

Required Documents for a German Business Visa

To apply for a German Business Visa, you’ll need the following documents:

1. Fully Completed Application Form & Declaration: Ensure the form is duly signed.
2. Two Passport Photographs: Adhere to strict requirements detailed on our website. (strict requirements, read this page for details)
3. Valid National Passport: Include a copy of your passport‘s data page (A4 size copy).
4. Company Bank Statements: Provide statements from the previous three months.
5. Invitation Letter: From your business partner in Germany (English or German), or a confirmation letter from the German client for consultancy services.
6. Detailed Business Meeting Schedule: Required for stays over 30 days.
7. Confirmation Letter from Health Insurance: Stating coverage for emergency medical or hospitalization (minimum of 30,000 Euros). (Read this for health insurance)
8. Business References: Provide references from your company.
9. Company Covering Letter: Include your entire travel plan (itinerary).
10. Travel Tickets: Flight reservation, rail tickets, others.
11. Proof of Accommodation: For your entire stay in the Schengen area. (read more for Proof of accommodation)
12. Certificate of Incorporation: Proof of your company’s incorporation.
13. Proof of Civil Status: Marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, etc.
14. Proof of Financial Status:
    • If employed: Payslips of the past three months/employment contract
    • If self-employed: Certificate of Proprietorship or other proof of ownership (proof of land title, proof of income from agriculture (sales form) etc.)

You will also need to provide photocopies of all these documents.

Where and How to Apply

• Location: Apply at your home country’s German Embassy.
• Submission: First-time applicants must submit documents in person, while frequent travelers may use an agent or travel agency.
• Timing: Apply at least 3 weeks before your travel date to account for processing delays.

Important Note on Visa Payment

• Payment: Visa fees must be paid via bank transfer; checks or credit cards are not accepted.
• Fees: As of 2008, the visa fee is 60 Euros, subject to change.
• Non-Reimbursement: Visa fees are non-refundable in case of rejection.

Ensure all documentation is meticulously prepared and submitted to expedite the visa application process for your business trip to Germany.