Germany new visa policy

Germany has introduced a new visa policy, which aims to simplify and streamline the visa application process for foreign nationals. Here are some key changes and updates:

New Visa Categories:

  1. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Germany has introduced an electronic travel authorization (ETA) for short-term stays (up to 90 days) for citizens of certain countries. This replaces the previous requirement for a visa.
  2. Schengen Visa: The Schengen visa has been replaced by a new "Short-Term Visa" (STV) for stays up to 90 days. This visa is valid for multiple entries and can be used for tourism, business, or visiting family and friends.
  3. Long-Term Visa: The long-term visa (LTV) is for stays exceeding 90 days. This visa is required for work, study, or family reunification.

Changes to the Application Process:

  1. Online Application: The German government has introduced an online application platform for visa applications. This allows applicants to fill out and submit their application forms electronically.
  2. Biometric Data: Biometric data (fingerprints) are now required for all visa applications.
  3. Interviews: Interviews are no longer required for most visa applications, except for certain categories such as work or study visas.

New Requirements:

  1. Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is now mandatory for all visa applicants.
  2. Proof of Financial Means: Applicants must provide proof of sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay in Germany.
  3. Language Proficiency: Language proficiency in German or English may be required for certain visa categories.

Countries Eligible for the ETA:

  1. Australia
  2. Canada
  3. Japan
  4. New Zealand
  5. South Korea
  6. United States

Countries Eligible for the Short-Term Visa:

  1. Albania
  2. Andorra
  3. Antigua and Barbuda
  4. Argentina
  5. Armenia
  6. Azerbaijan
  7. Bahamas
  8. Barbados
  9. Belarus
  10. Belize
  11. Bosnia and Herzegovina
  12. Brazil
  13. Brunei
  14. Bulgaria
  15. Chile
  16. China
  17. Colombia
  18. Costa Rica
  19. Croatia
  20. Cyprus
  21. Dominica
  22. Ecuador
  23. El Salvador
  24. Georgia
  25. Grenada
  26. Guatemala
  27. Honduras
  28. Hong Kong
  29. Hungary
  30. Iceland
  31. India
  32. Indonesia
  33. Israel
  34. Italy
  35. Jamaica
  36. Kazakhstan
  37. Kosovo
  38. Kuwait
  39. Kyrgyzstan
  40. Latvia
  41. Lebanon
  42. Liechtenstein
  43. Lithuania
  44. Luxembourg
  45. Macau
  46. Macedonia
  47. Malaysia
  48. Malta
  49. Mexico
  50. Moldova
  51. Monaco
  52. Montenegro
  53. Morocco
  54. Namibia
  55. Netherlands
  56. Nicaragua
  57. Norway
  58. Oman
  59. Panama
  60. Paraguay
  61. Peru
  62. Philippines
  63. Poland
  64. Portugal
  65. Qatar
  66. Romania
  67. Russia
  68. San Marino
  69. Saudi Arabia
  70. Serbia
  71. Seychelles
  72. Singapore
  73. Slovakia
  74. Slovenia
  75. South Africa
  76. Spain
  77. Sri Lanka
  78. St. Kitts and Nevis
  79. St. Lucia
  80. St. Vincent and the Grenadines
  81. Sweden
  82. Switzerland
  83. Taiwan
  84. Tajikistan
  85. Thailand
  86. Trinidad and Tobago
  87. Turkey
  88. Turkmenistan
  89. Ukraine
  90. United Arab Emirates
  91. United Kingdom
  92. Uruguay
  93. Uzbekistan
  94. Vatican City
  95. Venezuela

Please note that this list is subject to change, and it's always best to check with the German embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements and application procedures.