Many people from all over the world come to Germany because of the work and study opportunities it offers. But Germany is also an amazing country for you to start or expand your own business. It is one of the most business-friendly countries in the world. The German government is also focusing on facilitating the investors. So, how can you get a business visa in Germany? Find out more about it in this guide.
Collect the Required Documents
Firstly, you need to gather all the relevant documents to get started with your business visa processing. To apply for a Germany Business Visa, you need to submit several important documents. Here’s a list of what you should bring to your appointment:
Application Form and Valid Passport
Fill out the German business visa application form completely and accurately. It is important to make sure your passport is valid for at least six months before your trip to Germany.
Passport-Sized Photos and Proof of Accommodation
Bring two identical photos that meet the Germany visa photo requirements. Show where you will be staying in Germany. This can be hotel reservations or a letter from a friend or family member if you are staying with them.
Transportation Details and Travel Health Insurance
Provide your round-trip reservation or travel itinerary. Also, submit proof of travel health insurance that covers you during your stay in Germany.
Proof of Financial Means
You need to show you have enough money to support yourself. This can be done through:
- Company Bank Statements: These should cover the last three months.
- Business References: Letters from your collaborators, clients, or other competent individuals can help support your application.
Invitation Letter
Get an invitation letter from your business partner in Germany. This letter should be in English or German and include:
- Your details
- Dates and purpose of the trip
- Detailed schedule of business meetings or training sessions
- Information about the inviting business collaborator
- Company Covering Letter
- Your company should provide a letter that includes:
- Your position
- Duration of your employment
- Dates and purpose of the trip
- Whether your employer will cover your expenses
Business License
Include a document showing that your company is eligible to conduct business.
By gathering these documents and ensuring everything is in order, you can make your Germany Business Visa application process smooth and successful.
What is the Process to Get a German Business Visa?
Collect Relevant Documents
The first thing you need to do is gather all the relevant to process your visa application. You can check out the list in the above section to find out the documents you need to have by your side.
Additionally, there can be some other documents that would be required in some cases. Make sure to know about the documents that you need to provide to avoid any delays at the last minute.
Scheduling Your Visa Interview
First-time applicant? If this is your first time applying for a German Business Visa, you might be wondering where to go. In most cases, you can apply at:
- The German embassy (main office)
- A German consulate (smaller office)
- A Visa Application Center (helps process visa applications)
Important Note: Even if you apply at a different location, the final decision on your visa will always be made by the German embassy or the main consular office.
Traveling to Other Schengen Countries?
If you plan to visit other countries in the Schengen Area during your trip, things might be a bit different. Before applying for a German Business Visa, check if Germany will be your “main destination.” This means:
- You’ll spend fewer days in other Schengen countries compared to Germany.
- OR you’ll enter the Schengen Area through Germany, even if you spend an equal amount of time in each Schengen country.
Paying the Fee and Interview
Once you’ve figured out where to apply, you’ll need to pay the visa fee (around €90) and attend your interview on the scheduled date. There’s good news though! Citizens of some countries might only pay a fee of €40. You can find a list of these countries online!
How Long Does it Take and How Long Can I Stay?
Most people want to know about the German business visa processing time. In most cases, you’ll get a decision on your visa application within 10 to 15 business days. Sometimes, they might need to look at your application a bit more closely, and that can take up to 30 days.
As far as how long you can stay in Germany, a German Business Visa is a short-stay visa. This means that you can’t stay in Germany for longer than 90 days within 180 days (that’s 6 months). An important point to note is that the embassy has the final say on how many days you can stay.
This means that there is a chance that it could be less than 90 days (like 10 days). Also, there are two types of Business Visas: Single-Entry and Multiple-Entry. Here is what sets both the visa types apart from each other:
- A Single-Entry visa lets you enter Germany only once during the validity period.
- A Multiple-Entry visa allows you to enter Germany more than once within the validity period, so you can use up all your allowed days for your business trips.
Final Words
Getting a business visa for Germany can open up various new avenues for you and your business. With the right documents and following the procedure, you can easily get your business visa in no time. It will allow you to tap into the potential prospects that the German as well as the European market offer.
That being said, it can be a bit confusing to understand the bureaucratic process of Germany for business visa processing. If you have any confusion regarding how to apply for a German business visa, then CLICK HERE and we will be more than happy to assist you!
