Germany is one of the most popular — and most document-strict — Schengen destinations for Indian travellers. A German tourist visa is a short-stay (Type C) Schengen visa for up to 90 days, applied for through VFS Global on behalf of the German missions in India. This is your complete, India-specific guide: where to apply based on your state, the fees, the exact documents Germany wants, the Verpflichtungserklärung for sponsored trips, processing times, and 28 answered questions. At FastVisa123 (fastvisa123.com) we file German Schengen applications for Indians for a flat fee — here is everything you need.
German tourist visa at a glance
Type: Schengen short-stay (Type C), up to 90 days in any 180. Fee: €90 adult, €45 child 6–12, free under 6 (plus a separate VFS service fee). Processing: usually ~15 working days, longer (20–25) in summer. Where: VFS Global, at the centre that covers your state. Decides it: the German consulate, not VFS. FastVisa123 builds the whole file so Germany’s strict checks are met first time.
Which German consulate covers you? (jurisdiction by state)
Germany routes you by your state of residence — applying at the wrong centre causes delays or refusal. This is the usual mapping, but always confirm yours on the VFS Germany site, as boundaries can change.
| Apply via (German mission) | If you live in |
|---|---|
| New Delhi (Embassy) | Delhi-NCR, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Chandigarh |
| Mumbai | Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Daman & Diu, Dadra & Nagar Haveli |
| Bengaluru | Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshadweep |
| Chennai | Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Puducherry |
| Kolkata | West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Sikkim and the North-East, Andaman & Nicobar |
Not sure which is your main destination if you visit several countries? See our which-country guide.
German tourist visa fees (2026)
| Applicant | Visa fee |
|---|---|
| Adult (18+) | €90 (about ₹9,000) |
| Child 6–12 | €45 (about ₹4,000) |
| Child under 6 | Free |
| VFS service fee | Separate, a few hundred rupees — non-refundable |
The visa fee and VFS fees are non-refundable even if you are refused — see what is and isn’t refundable in our bookings guide.
How to apply, step by step
1. Build your file — passport, form, photos, insurance, funds, cover letter, itinerary and bookings (details below).
2. Create a VFS account & book at the centre that covers your state, up to 3 months ahead and no later than ~2 weeks before travel.
3. Attend the appointment — submit documents, give biometrics (fingerprints + photo), pay the fee.
4. Track & collect — follow your application online and collect the passport or have it couriered.
New to the process? Start with our step-by-step application guide and form walkthrough.
Documents Germany expects
- Passport issued within 10 years, valid 3+ months beyond return, with 2 blank pages;
- Completed application form and two recent 35×45 mm photos;
- Travel medical insurance with €30,000 cover across Schengen (see our insurance guide);
- Proof of funds — last 3 months’ bank statements, plus ITR/Form 16;
- Cover letter stating your plan and why you will return;
- Confirmed round-trip flight reservation and accommodation for the whole stay;
- Employment proof — NOC/leave letter (or business/student equivalents);
- Verpflichtungserklärung if you are sponsored/hosted (below).
For Germany, financial proof and accommodation are the documents that most decide the outcome, so make them airtight.
Funds & cover letter (Germany is strict)
German consulates scrutinise money and intent closely. Show a steady balance over the last 3 months — not a sudden deposit — backed by ITR, and aim comfortably above the day-rate with a buffer (see proof of funds and bank balance). Your cover letter should lay out a clear day-by-day plan and strong reasons you will return to India.
Verpflichtungserklärung (sponsored or family visits)
If a host in Germany covers your costs, they obtain a Verpflichtungserklärung — a formal declaration of commitment — from their local Ausländerbehörde (foreigners’ office). It legally undertakes to bear your expenses and is submitted with your file, alongside the host’s ID and address proof. For visiting family or friends, tick ‘visiting family/friends’, not Tourism. More in our sponsorship guide.
Processing time & after the decision
Germany usually decides within about 15 working days, but in the June–August peak this stretches to 20–25 days at Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru — so apply ~8 weeks ahead for summer. You may be questioned or have details verified, though a formal interview is uncommon (see interview reality). Check the entries and validity on your sticker, and if refused, decide whether to reapply or appeal. Applied within the last ~5 years? Your biometrics may be reused.
German visa: do vs don’t
✅ Do
Apply at the centre for your state. Show a steady 3-month balance with ITR. Match dates across form, tickets and hotels. Use a Verpflichtungserklärung for sponsored trips. Apply ~8 weeks ahead in summer.
❌ Don’t
Don’t apply at the wrong jurisdiction. Don’t show a sudden lump-sum deposit. Don’t tick Tourism for a family visit. Don’t submit non-refundable bookings before approval. Don’t leave it to the last two weeks in peak season.
Get your German tourist visa filed right the first time
FastVisa123 picks your correct consulate, builds Germany’s strict funds and document set, and files the whole application — flat ₹10,000. Indian travellers, start at fastvisa123.com.
Approval green flags vs refusal red flags
🟢 Green flags (officers love these)
A steady 3–6 month bank balance backed by ITR; a clear, dated day-by-day itinerary; a confirmed return ticket and matching hotels; strong ties to India (job, family, property); an approved leave letter or NOC; and one consistent story across every document.
🔴 Red flags (officers refuse for these)
A sudden lump-sum deposit days before applying; a vague “Europe tour” with no real plan; dates that disagree across form, tickets and hotels; weak or no ties to India; ticking Tourism for a family visit; and applying at the wrong consulate.
German tourist visa: 28 common questions answered
1. Where do I apply for a German tourist visa in India?
FastVisa123: Through VFS Global on behalf of the German missions, at the centre that covers your state of residence. The German consulate — not VFS — makes the decision.
2. Which German consulate or VFS centre covers my state?
FastVisa123: Roughly: Delhi for north India, Mumbai for the west, Bengaluru for Karnataka and Kerala, Chennai for the south-east, and Kolkata for the east and north-east. Always confirm your exact jurisdiction on the VFS Germany site; we check it for you at fastvisa123.com.
3. How early can I book a German visa appointment?
FastVisa123: Up to three months before travel, and no later than about two weeks before. In summer, book as early as possible because slots fill fast.
4. How long does a German tourist visa take?
FastVisa123: Usually around 15 working days, but in the June to August peak it can stretch to 20 to 25 days at Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, so apply about 8 weeks ahead for summer trips.
5. Can I get an urgent or faster German appointment?
FastVisa123: Options are limited and not guaranteed; consulate processing is not sped up by paying VFS for premium services. The reliable fix is applying early — we help find the earliest valid slot at fastvisa123.com.
6. Do I apply to Germany if I am also visiting other Schengen countries?
FastVisa123: Only if Germany is your main destination — the country of most nights, or the main purpose. If you spend more nights elsewhere, apply to that country instead.
7. What is the German tourist visa fee?
FastVisa123: €90 for adults (about ₹9,000), €45 for children aged 6 to 12, and free for children under 6, plus a separate VFS service fee.
8. Is the VFS service fee separate from the visa fee?
FastVisa123: Yes. The VFS service fee is charged on top of the government visa fee, and both are non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
9. Is the German visa fee refundable if I am refused?
FastVisa123: No. Neither the government visa fee nor the VFS service fee is refunded on refusal, so treat them as your only unavoidable sunk costs.
10. How much bank balance do I need for a German visa?
FastVisa123: Enough to comfortably cover your trip at the Schengen day-rate with a buffer, shown as a steady 3-month balance — Germany scrutinises funds closely, so a healthy, well-explained balance matters.
11. How many months of bank statements does Germany want?
FastVisa123: Typically the last 3 months, bank-issued, showing steady activity. Pair them with ITR or Form 16, and avoid sudden large deposits that look like borrowed funds.
12. Do I need ITR or Form 16 for a German visa?
FastVisa123: It is strongly recommended. Two to three years of ITR (or Form 16) shows your income is genuine and supports the balance you present — see our ITR guide on fastvisa123.com.
13. What should my cover letter for Germany say?
FastVisa123: A clear day-by-day plan, your purpose, who funds the trip, and strong reasons you will return to India. Germany values a precise, consistent cover letter — use our template at fastvisa123.com.
14. What accommodation proof does Germany accept?
FastVisa123: Hotel or Airbnb bookings covering your entire stay, or a host’s address with a Verpflichtungserklärung if you are staying with someone. It must match your itinerary.
15. Do I need a confirmed flight ticket or just a reservation?
FastVisa123: A confirmed round-trip flight reservation is enough for the application — do not buy non-refundable tickets before approval. Book the paid ticket once the visa is granted.
16. What is a Verpflichtungserklärung?
FastVisa123: It is Germany’s formal declaration of commitment, obtained by your host from their local Ausländerbehörde, in which they legally undertake to cover your costs. It is submitted with your application for sponsored or family visits.
17. Can a relative in Germany sponsor or invite me?
FastVisa123: Yes. A host can invite and sponsor you with a Verpflichtungserklärung plus their ID and address proof, alongside proof of your relationship. See our sponsorship guide on fastvisa123.com.
18. Should I tick Tourism or visiting family on the form?
FastVisa123: Tick the true purpose. If you are visiting relatives or friends, choose ‘visiting family/friends’, not Tourism — mismatching this is a common reason for refusal.
19. What travel insurance does Germany require?
FastVisa123: Travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 cover, valid across the Schengen Area for your whole trip, including emergency medical and repatriation.
20. What are the photo requirements for a German visa?
FastVisa123: Two recent 35×45 mm photos on a white background, neutral expression, no glasses, taken within the last 6 months. See our photo guide on fastvisa123.com to avoid rejection.
21. What are common reasons Germany refuses a tourist visa?
FastVisa123: Weak or inconsistent funds, an unclear purpose, poor ties to India, missing documents, or applying at the wrong jurisdiction. Germany is especially strict on finances and accommodation.
22. Does Germany interview applicants or call to verify?
FastVisa123: A formal interview is uncommon for tourist applicants. The consulate may ask questions at submission or verify details by phone, so keep your contacts reachable and your documents consistent.
23. How many entries and how long is the German visa valid?
FastVisa123: It varies by case — first-timers often get a single or short multiple-entry visa, while travel history can earn longer validity. Days are always capped at 90 in any 180.
24. What if my German visa is refused — appeal or reapply?
FastVisa123: If the reason is fixable, reapply with a stronger file; if it was a clear error, appeal within the deadline. See our reapply and appeal guides on fastvisa123.com.
25. Are my biometrics reused for a German visa?
FastVisa123: If you gave Schengen fingerprints within the last 59 months, they can often be reused, and you may skip the biometric visit. A fresh photo and documents are still required.
26. Can I apply for a German visa with a blank passport or as a first-timer?
FastVisa123: Yes. A blank passport is not a barrier — genuine funds, strong ties and a clear purpose matter far more than past travel. Many first-time Indian applicants are approved.
27. Can unemployed or between-jobs applicants get a German visa?
FastVisa123: Yes, with a sponsor or strong savings plus clear ties to India. Homemakers, students and retirees are commonly approved on a sponsor’s funds — details on fastvisa123.com.
28. Can FastVisa123 handle my German tourist visa application?
FastVisa123: Yes. FastVisa123 picks your correct consulate, builds Germany’s strict funds and document set, drafts your cover letter and itinerary, and files the whole application — for a flat ₹10,000. Start at fastvisa123.com.
29. Do Indians need ETIAS for Germany?
FastVisa123: No. ETIAS is a travel authorisation only for visa-exempt nationalities, and Indian passport holders are not eligible — you must apply for a Schengen visa for Germany. Ignore any ‘ETIAS for India’ website; it does not apply to you, and FastVisa123 files the actual visa you need.
30. Can I work or study in Germany on this tourist visa?
FastVisa123: No. A Type C tourist visa is strictly for tourism or visiting, and cannot be used to work or study, nor converted from inside the Schengen Area. Long-term work or study needs a different national visa applied for from India.
31. Can I extend my Germany tourist visa once I am there?
FastVisa123: Only in rare, unforeseeable cases such as serious illness or force majeure, applied for locally before it expires. Wanting more holiday time is not a valid reason, so plan your dates correctly before you fly.
32. Can I visit other Schengen countries on a Germany visa?
FastVisa123: Yes. A uniform Schengen visa issued by Germany lets you travel across all Schengen countries, as long as Germany remains your main destination and you stay within 90 days in any 180-day period.
33. Do my children need their own Germany visa?
FastVisa123: Yes. Each child needs a separate application and visa with their own photo, birth certificate, both parents’ consent and supporting documents. Children under 6 are usually free and ages 6–12 pay a reduced fee.
34. How do I track my Germany visa application?
FastVisa123: After you submit at VFS, you get a reference number to track the application online and by email, and a couriered passport is tracked via the courier (such as Blue Dart) using that number. FastVisa123 keeps you updated at every stage.
35. Is a VFS appointment mandatory for Germany, or can I walk in?
FastVisa123: An appointment is mandatory for almost all applicants, including minors, to give biometrics and submit documents, and each person needs their own. A few consulates run limited walk-in windows, but assume an appointment is required.
36. Can I apply for my whole family in one go?
FastVisa123: Each traveller needs a separate application, appointment and visa sticker for Germany, including every child; a parent signs for minors. You can attend together, but the files are assessed individually.
37. What if I apply too close to my travel date?
FastVisa123: Apply at least about 15 days before travel. Applications lodged with departure under 15 days away are usually returned unprocessed (fees may be refunded), so apply early — ideally 4–8 weeks ahead in peak season.
38. Can I enter Germany before my visa’s start date?
FastVisa123: No. You may enter only from the ‘valid from’ date on your sticker and must use the visa within its validity. Arriving early risks denied boarding or entry, so match your flights to the visa dates.
Heading to France? See France tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Heading to Italy? See Italy tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Heading to Spain? See Spain tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Heading to Switzerland? See Switzerland tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Heading to the Netherlands? See Netherlands tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Heading to Greece? See Greece tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Heading to Austria? See Austria tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Heading to Prague? See Czech Republic tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Heading to Portugal? See Portugal tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Heading to Budapest? See Hungary tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Heading to Belgium? See Belgium tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Adding Luxembourg? See Luxembourg tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Adding Liechtenstein? See Liechtenstein tourist visa (Type C) from India guide.
Refused by Germany? See what to do if your German visa is refused (appeal & contacts).
Official source: Official German Federal Foreign Office visa information