Germany visa update: Online applications, fees and processing timeline confirmed for 2026

Germany has confirmed updated visa application rules, fees and processing timelines for international travellers and long-term applicants, including residents applying from Saudi Arabia, according to official information published by the German Federal Foreign Office.

The update outlines who needs a visa, where applications must be submitted, and how travellers can now apply online through Germany’s digital consular system.

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Who needs a Germany visa

In general, nationals of non-EU countries are required to obtain a visa before travelling to Germany.
Citizens of European Union member states and a limited group of visa-exempt countries are allowed short stays without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Where to apply

Visa applications must be submitted to the German embassy or consulate responsible for the applicant’s place of residence.
Applicants are required to apply through the German mission that has local responsibility for their area.

Visa types

Germany continues to issue two main categories of visas:

• Schengen visa – for stays of up to 90 days

• National visa – for long-term stays such as work, study or family reunification

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Updated visa fees

The standard visa fees remain:

• Schengen visa: EUR 90

• National visa: EUR 75

Reduced fees and full fee waivers apply to certain categories, including young children, students on official study trips, researchers and some family members of EU or German citizens.

Processing time

For short-term travel, Schengen visa decisions are generally made within around 15 calendar days after a complete application is submitted.
Applications for long-term national visas may take several months, depending on the purpose of stay and individual circumstances.

Germany expands online visa services

Germany has also expanded its digital visa application system through the
Consular Services Portal (Auslandsportal).

Through this online platform, applicants can now submit visa applications for:

• employment and skilled worker visas

• study and vocational training visas

• family reunification visas

Applicants can upload documents online, receive feedback on missing information and later book their in-person appointment at the responsible German mission to provide biometrics and submit original documents.

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Important note for applicants

Applicants should apply only through the German mission responsible for their place of residence. If a specific visa category is not yet available online in their region, applications must be submitted using the regular appointment system at the embassy or an authorised visa application centre.

Source: German Federal Foreign Office (official information)