Germany is among 29 Schengen states, popular for its rich culture, stunning mountains, and decent lifestyle. This makes it a hotspot for tourists, students, and job seekers. Whether you are after a short leisure trip or a long-term stay, the first thing you need is a visa. Obtaining a Germany visa in Dubai and other Emirates is straightforward, quick, and convenient.
Ready to explore the visa application process in detail? Here is all you need to know about a successful visa application.
Types of Germany Visas for UAE Residents
Emirati citizens do not require German visas for short stays of up to 90 days. This is because Germany is on the list of visa-free countries for UAE residents. However, expats residing in the UAE must apply for a German visa for short and long stays. Also, UAE citizens need a German visa for stays exceeding 90 days.
Depending on your stay duration in Germany, there are two main types of visas discussed ahead:
1. Schengen Visa (C-Visa)
It is also known as the ‘Short Term’ visa and grants a 90-day permission in 180 days to stay in Germany. Visa holders can travel to all Schengen states using this visa without other formalities.
You can easily obtain a Schengen visa from the primary travel country where a visitor will spend the most time. It is sub-categorised into the following types:
- Tourist and Visitor Visa
- Business Visa
- Airport Transit Visa
- Guest Scientist Visa
- Medical Treatment Visa
- Training or Internship Visa
- Trade Fair and Exhibitions Visa
- Cultural Purposes Visa
2. National Visa (D-Visa)
Type D visa, known as a ‘Long Term’ visa, is ideal for stays exceeding 90 days. Whether you want to pursue higher studies or work in Germany, this is the visa category for long-duration stays. Although this visa type permits travelling to other Schengen states, the visa holder can reside only in Germany. Here are a few common types of D-visa:
- Family Reunion Visa
- Job Seeker Visa
- Work Visa
- Chancenkarte
- Student Visa
- Language Course Visa
The duration of these visas varies; for instance, a job seeker visa can be issued for up to six months. Similarly, a work visa is issued as per the employment period. The Chancenkarte visa (residence permit for securing a job) can be issued for up to one year.
How to Apply for a Germany Visa
Applying for a Germany visa in Dubai and other Emirates is hassle-free with a step-by-step process. Simply submit an online application, prepare documents, and visit your nearest German consulate or embassy.
It is advisable to complete the application a minimum of two weeks before your intended travel date. Let’s go through the visa application process.
1. Complete the Visa Application Form
The first important step is filling out an online application form on the German embassy website. Choose the visa category depending on your stay duration, whether it is a short stay or a long stay. Complete the form, print and sign it before moving on to the next step.
2. Gather Necessary Documents
The next step is to prepare all essential documents to avoid visa rejections. Here is a quick overview of the must-have documents:
- Signed visa application form
- Three months valid passport
- Two passport-size photographs
- Initial accommodation proof in Germany (a tenancy agreement, hotel booking or relative sponsorship letter)
- Round-trip air tickets (if applicable)
- €30,000 (AED 113,394) health insurance coverage
- Proof of financial means equivalent to €45 (AED 170.09) per day for the complete stay duration in Germany. On the contrary, sponsorship holders must submit a valid sponsorship letter.
- Visa-fee receipt
- Letter of invitation (for family and business sponsorships)
- No-objection letter from employer or school
- School enrollment certificate (if applicable)
Additional Documents
Apart from the general documents, travellers must submit additional documents based on their employment or age status.
For Employed
- Employment contract
- Last six months’ bank statement
- Proof of annual leave approval during the travel period
- Certificate of Income Tax
For Self-Employed
- Business licence copy
- Last six months’ company bank statement
- Income Tax Return (ITR) Certificate
Unemployed
Unemployed UAE residents married to EU citizens must arrange these documents:
- Employment letter of spouse
- Valid passport of spouse
Retired
- The last six months’ pension statements
Minors
- Original birth certificate in German or English
- Visa application form signed by parents
Passport Renewal
It is crucial to have a valid passport to apply for Germany visa in Dubai and other Emirates. If you are stressed about an expired or about to expire passport, refer to these quick guides for passport renewal:
3. Schedule a Visa Appointment
Now that everything is in place, it is time to schedule an interview appointment. Attend an interview at the nearest German consulate, embassy, or visa application centre. For instance, VFS Global is a renowned visa application centre in the UAE catering to visa appointments.
4. Appear for the Interview
Remember the appointment date and time and ensure that you carry all essential documents. Simply submit the documents and attend an interview. This is hardly a 10-minute conversation about the trip, itinerary, and future goals.
5. Undergo Biometric Verification
After the interview session, the next important step is to undergo biometric verification.
6. Pay Visa Fee
Visa fees can be paid before or after the interview, depending on the consulate. Here is a breakdown of German visa application fees:
- C-Visa Fee:
- Airport transit visa: €90 (AED 340.18)
- Short stay visa (Adults): €90 (AED 340.18)
- Children between 6 and 12 years: €45 (AED 170.09)
- Children below 6 years: Free
- D-Visa Fee: €75 (AED 283.49)
7. Receive Your Visa
Submit your application and wait 10 to 15 days for visa processing and approval. That is it! Be ready for an exciting and stress-free travel journey to Germany.
FAQs
Yes, UAE residents need a visa to travel to Germany. However, UAE citizens can travel visa-free for up to 90 days with electronic travel authorisation.
A German visa approval process in the UAE can take up to 15 days. It is advisable to cross-check visa applications before submitting them to avoid future hassles.
That sums up the application process for a Germany visa in Dubai and other Emirates. Whether you want to travel for work, family, or leisure, this straightforward process has made things easier. We hope you enjoy your time in Germany.
Similarly, if you want to travel to the UK, apply for a UK visa for UAE residents by following a quick process.
