Germany visa — Senegal passport: documents and fees

Which procedure for your trip?

Tourist visa

Tourism (short stay) · Stay of up to 90 days · Verified on 7 October 2026
Tourist visa: documents, fees and steps
Student visa

Study · Verified on 13 October 2026
Student visa: documents, fees and steps
Work visa

Work · Verified on 13 October 2026
Work visa: documents, fees and steps

Documents requested

Tourist visa

Schengen visa application form, completed online and then printed, or a paper form obtained free of charge from the missionConditions and details
The Federal Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt) states that the Schengen visa application form can be completed online; the applicant then brings the printed version to the appointment. Otherwise, the form is obtained free of charge from the mission, in the local language, or downloaded from the website of the competent mission. The version used by the mission where the application is submitted must be used.
Passport valid for at least three months after the planned date of exit from the Schengen area, issued less than ten years ago and containing at least two blank pagesConditions and details
The Visa Code (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009) requires the presentation of a valid travel document. Its validity must exceed by at least three months the planned date of exit from the territory of the Member States, or the last planned date of exit in the case of several stays. It must contain at least two blank pages and have been issued during the previous ten years. In the event of justified urgency, the validity period requirement may be waived.
Photograph of the applicant meeting ICAO standards (document 9303), scanned or taken when the application is submittedConditions and details
The Visa Code (Regulation (EC) No 810/2009, consolidated version of 28 June 2024) requires a photograph to be submitted when the application is filed. It is one of the biometric identifiers captured at the first application, scanned or taken on site, and must meet the technical requirements of Document 9303 of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Part 1, 6th edition.
Travel medical insurance valid throughout the Schengen area for the entire duration of stay, with a minimum coverage of 30 000 eurosConditions and details
For each applicant, the German mission must verify that the conditions for issuing a Schengen visa are met, including the submission of travel medical insurance valid throughout the Schengen area and for the entire duration of stay, with a minimum coverage amount of 30 000 euros.
Proof of the purpose of the trip, of accommodation and of means of subsistence for the stay and the returnConditions and details
The Visa Code requires every applicant for a Schengen visa (uniform visa) to provide documents indicating the purpose of the trip, documents relating to accommodation or proof of sufficient means to cover it, and documents showing sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the stay and for the return to their country of origin or residence. Applicants must also provide information allowing their intention to leave the territory of the Member States before the requested visa expires to be assessed. Annex II to the Visa Code gives a non-exhaustive list of supporting documents that may be requested.
Documents required by the competent German mission (details on its website or from it directly)Conditions and details
The Federal Foreign Office states that the details of the documents to be presented with the application are often given on the website of the competent German mission, or can be obtained directly from it. The visa application must always be submitted by the person travelling to Germany.

Depending on your situation

Collection of the ten fingerprints, unless they were recorded for a Schengen visa application less than 59 months earlierConditions and details
The Visa Code provides for flat impressions of all ten fingerprints to be recorded digitally. If fingerprints collected during an earlier application were first entered in the Visa Information System (VIS) less than 59 months before the new application, they are reused for that application. However, if there is reasonable doubt about the applicant's identity, the consulate collects them again.

Student visa

Application form for a national long-stay visa, completed online on the consular services portal, or form obtained free of charge from the German representationConditions and details
The Federal Foreign Office states that the national visa application form can be completed online and then brought printed to the appointment. It can also be obtained free of charge from the representation, in the local language; the version used by the representation where the application is submitted must be used. It can also be downloaded from the website of the competent representation.
Valid passport, recognized by GermanyConditions and details
The visa manual of the Federal Foreign Office recalls that entry and residence in Germany require a recognized and valid travel document (passport obligation under the Residence Act). No minimum validity period is specified at that point: the competent representation states its requirements.
Biometric identity photograph to bring to the appointment; fingerprints are taken on siteConditions and details
The consular services portal asks you to bring a biometric photograph to the appointment at the representation; the requirements are set out in the ministry's biometric photograph guide. Biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) are provided at that in-person appointment.
Proof of means of subsistence for the duration of the stay: at least 992 euros per month for studies, at least 1 091 euros per month for seeking a place at universityConditions and details
The portal requires proof that one can support oneself for the entire stay: at least 992 euros per month to begin studies and at least 1 091 euros per month to seek a place at university. The proof can be provided, for example, by a blocked account (Sperrkonto), a declaration of commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung) or a scholarship. The accepted methods of proof are detailed in the recommendations below.
Certificate of sufficient health insurance covering the period of validity of the visaConditions and details
According to the visa manual of the Federal Foreign Office, proof of means of subsistence includes sufficient health insurance cover. It must in principle cover the entire period of validity of the visa, without its start being subject to a condition. German statutory insurance applies only from enrolment: the period between entry into Germany and that date is covered by sufficient private insurance; incoming or travel insurance is generally sufficient for this bridging period, provided that it does not exclude benefits in the event of settling in Germany.
Other documents requested by the competent representation, listed in the "Your documents" section of the portalConditions and details
On the consular services portal, the "Your documents" section states exactly the supporting documents to be uploaded for the chosen visa. The representation may request other documents even after the appointment, until the decision. Files are uploaded in PDF, JPG or PNG format, of 10 MB and 50 pages at most each.

Depending on your situation

To begin studies: letter of admission to a course of study at a public or state-recognized university, or confirmation of admission to a Studienkolleg or a comparable preparatory institutionConditions and details
To begin studies, the portal requires the letter of admission to a course of study at a public or state-recognized university, or the confirmation of admission to a Studienkolleg (preparatory college) or a comparable preparatory institution and, if necessary, the confirmation of admission to preparatory training, for example a language course required before the course of study. This supporting document does not concern the mere search for a place without admission: in that case the portal requires the secondary school leaving certificate giving access to higher education in Germany.
Secondary school leaving certificate giving access to higher education in Germany (for seeking a place at university)Conditions and details
To seek a place at university, without a letter of admission, the portal requires a secondary school leaving certificate that opens access to higher education in Germany. With this visa, one can travel to Germany for up to nine months and apply there for a course of study.
Proof of a level of language sufficient for the course of study, unless a preparatory language course precedes the course of studyConditions and details
The portal requires language skills sufficient for the intended course of study, unless a preparatory language course precedes the course of study. The level must in principle make it possible to follow the course of study in its language of instruction; it varies depending on the course of study. For a Studienkolleg or a comparable institution, proof of sufficient knowledge of German is also required. It can be confirmed by the university, the Studienkolleg or the comparable institution, or by a recognized language certificate.
Proof of financing of tuition fees, of the preparatory institution or of the preparatory language course, where applicableConditions and details
If tuition fees are due in addition to the semester fee, it must also be proven, by appropriate supporting documents, that one has sufficient resources to pay them. This also applies to the costs of a Studienkolleg or a preparatory language course.

Work visa

National long-stay visa application form, completed online on the consular services portal, or a form obtained free of charge from the German missionConditions and details
The Federal Foreign Office states that the national visa application form can be completed online and then brought printed to the appointment. It can also be obtained free of charge from the mission, in the local language; the version used by the mission where the application is submitted must be used. It can also be downloaded from the website of the competent mission.
Valid passportConditions and details
The Federal Employment Agency states that a person applying for a visa to work must as a general rule provide a valid passport. It advises presenting all documents relevant to the decision in order to avoid requests for clarification. No minimum validity period is specified numerically at this point: the competent mission states its requirements.
Biometric identity photograph to bring to the appointment; fingerprints are taken on siteConditions and details
The consular services portal requires bringing a biometric photograph to the appointment at the mission; the requirements are set out in the ministry's biometric photograph guide. The biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) are provided at this in-person appointment.
Declaration on the employment relationship (“Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis”), completed and signed by the employer: concrete job offer in GermanyConditions and details
The consular services portal requires, for all skilled workers, an employment relationship in Germany; for the professional experience route, a firm job offer. According to the visa manual, the proof of this offer is as a general rule the form “Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis”, completed and signed by the employer; it as a general rule dispenses with presenting other documents on the employment relationship, in particular an employment contract. For the skilled worker routes with vocational or university training, the employer and the applicant must also expressly attest that the employment will actually be carried out; the employer does so in this declaration.
Other documents requested by the competent mission, listed in the “Your documents” section of the portalConditions and details
On the consular services portal, the “Your documents” section states exactly the supporting documents to upload for the chosen visa. The mission may request other documents even after the appointment, until the decision. Files are uploaded in PDF, JPG or PNG format, of 10 MB and 50 pages at most each.

Depending on your situation

Valid residence permit of the country of residence, if the person does not reside in their country of originConditions and details
Among the documents relevant to the decision, the Federal Employment Agency cites a valid residence permit when the person is not applying for the visa from their country of origin.
Qualification equivalent to German vocational training (skilled worker with vocational training)Conditions and details
To work as a skilled worker with vocational training, the consular services portal requires a qualification equivalent to German vocational training and an employment relationship in Germany. This qualification must be recognised in Germany before the visa application.
University degree recognised in Germany or comparable to a German degree (skilled worker with a university degree)Conditions and details
To work as a skilled worker with a university degree, the consular services portal requires a university degree recognised in Germany or comparable to a German degree, and an employment relationship in Germany.
Degree or training of at least two years recognised by the state in which it was obtained, proof of two years of professional experience in the last five years and a firm job offer (professional experience route)Conditions and details
For the professional experience route, the portal requires: a foreign degree or at least two years of training recognised by the state in which they were obtained (not required for experience in the IT sector); proof of at least two years of experience related to the qualification, acquired in the last five years; a firm job offer in Germany with a minimum gross annual salary of 45 630 euros (2026 figure). This route is open only for non-regulated professions. The minimum salary does not apply if the employment relationship is covered by a collective agreement applied to the person.
Recognition or equivalence of the foreign qualification before the visa, for the skilled worker routes with vocational or university trainingConditions and details
Recognition in Germany concerns the skilled worker routes with vocational or university training: equivalence of vocational training, or a university degree recognised or comparable to a German degree. The recognition and assessment procedures precede the visa. The supporting document is as a general rule the decision of the competent body or the ZAB assessment; for a university degree and a non-regulated profession, a clear correspondence in the anabin database can also establish comparability. The professional experience route has its own conditions: recognition by the state in which the qualification was obtained, without a general requirement of equivalence with a German qualification, and an exemption from the qualification requirement for the IT sector.
Authorisation to practise (Berufsausübungserlaubnis) for a regulated profession, for example medical or legalConditions and details
To work in a regulated profession, for example in medicine or law, an authorisation to practise is mandatory. The Federal Government's information portal on the recognition of foreign professional qualifications, “Anerkennung in Deutschland”, states whether the profession is regulated and how to obtain the authorisation.
Sufficient retirement provision, in principle from the age of 45 on a first application as a skilled worker, if the gross annual salary is less than 55 770 euros (2026 figure)Conditions and details
For a first application for a residence title as a skilled worker with vocational or university training, from the age of 45, it is in principle necessary to prove either the minimum gross annual salary of 55 770 euros (2026 figure) or sufficient retirement provision. The manual provides for reasoned exceptions, in particular a public interest in the employment, or only a slight deviation from the salary threshold or the age limit. The authority assesses these exceptions; they are not automatic.
Prior approval (Vorabzustimmung) from the Federal Employment Agency, or from the foreigners authority in the accelerated procedure, when the employer has applied for itConditions and details
The employer may apply to the Federal Employment Agency (ZAV central office), before the employee applies for their visa, for prior approval of the employment. If it is granted, the employee applies directly for the visa at the competent mission; the procedure is as a general rule accelerated because several steps are eliminated. The employer transmits the prior approval and the declaration on the employment relationship to their future employee; the employee presents them to the mission. The approval is valid for nine months from its issuance; the mission is informed of it automatically. It may be applied for by an authorised third party.
Certificate of sufficient health insurance covering the validity period of the visa, if the mission requests itConditions and details
According to the visa manual of the Federal Foreign Office, proof of means of subsistence, where required, includes sufficient health insurance cover. It must in principle cover the entire validity period of the visa, without its start being subject to a condition. German statutory insurance applies only from the start of the employment: the period between entry into Germany and that date is covered by sufficient private insurance. In the accelerated procedure, the foreigners authority checks the means of subsistence, including health insurance.

Official fees

Tourist visa

Schengen visa — standard fee 90 €
Schengen visa (category A or C), in principle — nationals of Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Ukraine who are subject to the visa requirement (reduction partially suspended for Belarus) 35 €
Schengen visa — nationals of Cabo Verde 67.50 €

Student visa

National long-stay visa (type D), adult — processing fee 75 €

Work visa

National long-stay visa (type D), adult — processing fee 75 €
Accelerated procedure for skilled workers at the foreigners authority (excluding recognition fees and visa fees) 411 €

Steps

Tourist visa

Check the requirements well before the departure date to know which documents to present and avoid requests for additional documents.
Fill in the Schengen visa application form online and print it, or obtain the form free of charge from the mission.
Sign the application form.
Book an appointment at the mission or at the visa application centre of an external provider; in peak season, a waiting time is possible, and the appointment can be booked before the submission period opens.
Submit the application, as a rule in person, at the mission or visa application centre of the place of residence, at the earliest six months and generally at the latest 15 days before the trip.
Have your fingerprints taken; if they have already been taken in the last 59 months for a Schengen visa application, a new appearance in person for this recording may not be necessary.
Pay the visa fee when submitting the application.
Wait for the decision of the mission: as a rule up to 15 calendar days for a correct application.

Student visa

Obtain a place of study: apply to a German higher education institution and receive the letter of admission; to seek a place, assemble the higher education entrance qualification.
Assemble the proof of means of subsistence, health insurance and the required proof of language level.
Complete the online application on the consular services portal and upload the required documents, or request the form from the competent German representation.
Wait for the preliminary check: the representation verifies that the file is complete and indicates missing items via the portal.
Make an appointment at the representation or at the external service provider, using the link received once the file is complete.
Appear at the appointment: identity, fingerprints and photograph, originals of the required documents; pay the visa fee on site.
Wait for the representation's decision: the processing of a long-stay visa may take several months depending on the purpose of the stay.
After entry into Germany, apply for the residence permit at the foreigners authority (Ausländerbehörde) of the place of residence before the visa expires.

Work visa

Choose the suitable work pathway: have the qualification recognised in Germany for the skilled professional or academic pathways; for the experience pathway, check the separate qualification and experience requirements.
Obtain an employment relationship in Germany: the employer fills in and signs the declaration on the employment relationship (concrete job offer).
Depending on the case, the employer requests prior approval: from the Federal Employment Agency (online) or, for the accelerated skilled worker procedure, from the foreigners authority.
Fill in the visa application online on the consular services portal and upload the documents there, or request the form from the competent German representation.
Wait for the preliminary check of the file, then make an appointment with the link received; with the prior approval of the accelerated procedure, the representation gives an appointment within three weeks.
Appear at the appointment: identity, fingerprints and photograph, originals of the requested documents; pay the visa fees on site.
Wait for the decision: as a general rule three weeks in the accelerated procedure; otherwise processing can take several months depending on the purpose of stay.
After entry into Germany with the visa, apply to the local foreigners authority for the residence permit corresponding to the chosen work pathway, during the validity of the visa.

Where to apply

Tourist visa

German mission (embassy or consulate general) responsible for the area where the applicant has their habitual residence or domicile
Visa application centre of an external provider working for the German missions, at the place of residence
VIDEX online form “Kurzfristiger Aufenthalt” (short stay): complete the form, print it out and bring it to the appointment

Student visa

Consular services portal of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs: online application, then in-person appointment at the German representation
German representation (embassy or consulate general) competent for the applicant's usual residence zone or domicile
Visa application centre of an external service provider working with certain German representations; service fees may be added there

Work visa

Consular services portal of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs: online application for a visa to work, then in-person appointment at the German representation
German representation (embassy or consulate general) competent for the habitual residence area or the domicile of the applicant
Visa application centre of an external service provider working with certain German representations; service fees may be added there
Employer or agency: the portal allows a German employer or an agency to submit the application for its future employee
Federal Employment Agency (central ZAV service): online application for prior approval by the employer, before the visa application

Good to know

Tourist visa

Period for submissionConditions and details
A Schengen visa application is submitted at the earliest six months before the trip and, as a general rule, at the latest 15 days before; the appointment can be made before that period.
Germany, main destinationConditions and details
The Schengen visa application is submitted to the mission of the trip's main destination country: for a stay mainly in Germany, to a German mission. The country of entry or exit is not decisive.
No online submission for the Schengen visaConditions and details
The Consular Services Portal is used for long-stay visas. According to the ministry, Schengen visa applications cannot yet be accepted online there: the tourist visa application is submitted on paper, at the appointment.
Conditions examined by the missionConditions and details
The mission must establish for each applicant: a plausible reason for the trip, that the stay and the trip are financed from their own resources or income, the willingness to leave the Schengen area before the visa expires, and travel health insurance valid throughout the Schengen area for the entire duration of the stay, with minimum coverage of 30 000 euros. It decides with a broad margin of discretion.
Third-party sponsorshipConditions and details
If the applicant cannot prove that they are financing the stay themselves, a third person can commit to it through a formal declaration of support (Verpflichtungserklärung, Articles 66 and 68 of the Residence Act). As a rule, this person submits it to the foreigners authority (Ausländerbehörde) of their place of residence.
Private visit: invitationConditions and details
For a private visit, an invitation is generally requested to confirm the purpose of the trip; no particular form is required. If the host covers the travel costs, a formal declaration of sponsorship (Verpflichtungserklärung) must accompany the visa application; the host may sign it with the local authorities at his or her place of residence (generally the Ordnungsamt or the Ausländerbehörde).
90 days out of 180, regardless of visa validityConditions and details
The mission determines the period of validity and the number of days covered according to the documents submitted. A multiple-entry or long-validity visa does not allow exceeding 90 days of stay in any 180-day period.
Refusal and appealConditions and details
In the event of refusal, the reasons are communicated to the applicant and judicial recourse is open to the applicant. The remonstrance procedure (Remonstrationsverfahren), an optional appeal not provided for by law, has been abolished worldwide since 1 July 2025. A new application remains possible at any time.
Extension only in exceptional casesConditions and details
The validity of a visa can be extended only in certain exceptional cases, and only by the foreigners authority (Ausländerbehörde) at the holder's place of residence in Germany. Neither the Federal Foreign Office nor its missions abroad can do so.
Fee exemptionsConditions and details
All Schengen States exempt in particular pupils, students and accompanying teachers on study or training trips, representatives of non-profit organisations aged 25 or under who participate in certain events, researchers within the meaning of Directive (EU) 2016/801, and the replacement of a valid visa in a new travel document. Also exempt are the spouses, registered same-sex partners and unmarried minor children of German nationals, the parents of minor German children, as well as family members and relatives of EU or EEA nationals who benefit from free movement.
Visa facilitation agreementsConditions and details
The facilitation agreements concluded with Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cabo Verde, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Ukraine apply to nationals of those countries who are not exempt from the visa requirement. They provide for exemptions for certain categories of persons (for example a visit to a family member lawfully residing in a Schengen State, students). The reductions are partially suspended for Belarusian nationals and fully suspended for nationals of the Russian Federation.
External provider fees cappedConditions and details
An external service provider may charge a service fee, proportionate to the costs of its services. The Visa Code caps it at half of the regular visa fee, namely 45 euros, regardless of any reductions or exemptions from the visa fee. In third countries where the competent State has no consulate to receive applications and is not represented by another Member State, this cap is in principle 80 euros.
Individual questionsConditions and details
The headquarters of the Federal Foreign Office does not take part in decisions on individual applications. Questions about the fees of a particular case should be addressed to the German mission responsible for the application.
Entry checksConditions and details
During the entry check in Germany, the fingerprints recorded when applying for the visa are verified electronically. The traveller must also be able to substantiate the purpose and conditions of the stay, and to have sufficient means for its entire duration and for the return to the country of origin.
Entry/Exit System (EES)Conditions and details
The Entry/Exit System (EES) digitally records the entry and exit of third-country nationals: personal data, photograph, fingerprints and dates, instead of the stamp in the passport. Entry is not possible without this registration. The traveller can view their data to find out how much longer they can stay in the Schengen area.

Student visa

Validity period of the visa and visa for seeking a placeConditions and details
The portal states that study visas are generally issued for one year at most. With a visa for seeking a place at university, one can travel to Germany for up to nine months and apply there for a course of study. The study visa also applies to preparatory training: language course required for admission, Studienkolleg or comparable institution, compulsory internship.
Visa for seeking a place: conditions and conversionConditions and details
Applicants who meet the school and language conditions without a letter of admission may apply for a visa for seeking a place (Article 17, paragraph 2 of the Residence Act). It allows them to seek a place on site and to take admission examinations, for example that of the Studienkolleg, for up to nine months if means of subsistence are assured. In the event of admission, the foreigners authority may convert it into a stay for studies without a new exit from the country or a new visa application. Since 1 March 2024, this permit allows working up to 20 hours per week and doing up to two weeks of trial work in total.
Nationals exempt from the visa before entryConditions and details
Nationals of the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland are exempt from the visa obligation for a stay of more than three months. Those of Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States of America may apply for the necessary residence permit after their entry into Germany. This visa procedure is therefore not intended for them.
Students from certain states: entry without a visa, residence permit within three monthsConditions and details
According to the ministry, students from certain states may enter Germany without a visa, but they must apply for a residence permit at the competent foreigners authority within three months. Otherwise they must leave the country and follow the visa procedure. This concerns nationals of Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Andorra, Brazil, El Salvador, Honduras, Monaco and San Marino.
Blocked account (Sperrkonto): how it worksConditions and details
The blocked account can be opened with a bank or provider of one's choice, generally online; its fees are added to the blocked amount. The amount to be deposited depends on the purpose of the stay (it follows the maximum BAföG rates); it is stated on the website of the competent representation or in the portal, and the account is in principle set up for one year. Only a limited monthly amount may be withdrawn from it. The beneficiary of the block is the representation before the visa is issued, then the foreigners authority after entry; it does not have access to the funds. The ministry does not recommend any provider.
Other methods of proving means of subsistenceConditions and details
The visa manual cites among the possible proofs: a scholarship from German public funds or from a recognized aid organization, or from public funds of the country of origin when the connection with the German institution is through the ministry, the DAAD or another German organization; a blocked account; the income and assets of the parents, if the representation considers the supporting documents reliable; a declaration of commitment bearing the words "Bonität nachgewiesen" (the words "Bonität glaubhaft gemacht" are as a general rule not sufficient); support by a third party known to the representation. Financing of the first year of studies must be proven, except for studies of less than one year. Tuition fees do not count among the means of subsistence, but may be included in the assessment of financing.
Expected content of the letter of admissionConditions and details
The ministry asks institutions to include in the letter of admission the student's identity (surname, first name, nationality, date of birth), the course of study, the degree sought and the language of instruction, the admission conditions already verified (access to higher education, knowledge of the language of instruction) and whether the place is guaranteed or subject to a condition, such as a Studienkolleg or a language course. The letter is sent to the student and not to the representation; an electronic version is in principle sufficient, but the representation may ask questions in countries where forgeries are frequent.
Application timetableConditions and details
Admissions at German universities and higher education institutions take place only in the winter semester or the summer semester. At public institutions, applications generally close on 15 January for the summer semester and 15 July for the winter semester. Admissions follow in at least two phases, including a supplementary phase until the start of the semester: the period between admission and the start of term may be very short.
Work during studiesConditions and details
With a residence permit for studies, one may work in Germany up to 140 working days per year. The manual specifies that, during the lecture period, working up to 20 hours per calendar week can be counted on a flat-rate basis as 2.5 working days. Typical student side activities carried out at a university or another scientific institution, in particular tutoring and advising student communities, are not counted against this quota. This exception therefore does not concern all part-time jobs held by a student. The portal states that self-employed activities are not permitted.
After studies: 18 months to seek employmentAfter successfully obtaining a degree, one may stay in Germany for up to 18 months to seek employment corresponding to one's qualification.
Doctoral candidatesConditions and details
Since November 2023, doctoral candidates choose between the study regime (Article 16b of the Residence Act) and the research regime (Article 18d), provided they meet the conditions of each. If it is not yet known, before entry, whether one will be admitted to doctoral studies or whether one will undertake a research stay, a visa for seeking a place may be issued to a person who intends to enrol at a German university.
Residence zone and online applicationConditions and details
The application is submitted to the representation competent for the residence zone. The ministry requests that the application not be submitted online to another representation when the one for the residence zone does not yet offer this service: the application is then submitted on paper, by appointment at the representation or at the external service provider.
Submission by an authorised representativeConditions and details
Another person may submit the online application on behalf of the applicant if they present proof of authority of representation. The applicant must however appear in person at the representation for the biometric data.
Exemption from fees for scholarship holders funded by public fundsConditions and details
The national visa fee is waived for foreigners who receive a scholarship funded by public funds during their stay in Germany, as well as for their spouse or partner and their minor children to the extent that they are covered by the scholarship. Visa facilitation agreements do not concern national visas.
Refusal and new applicationConditions and details
In the event of refusal, the reasons are communicated to the applicant and the judicial remedy is open to them. The remonstrance procedure has been abolished worldwide since 1 July 2025. A new visa application remains possible at any time.

Work visa

Three work visa routes on the portalConditions and details
The consular services portal distinguishes three routes for a work visa: the skilled worker with vocational training (qualification equivalent to German training, employment relationship in Germany), the skilled worker with a university degree (degree recognised in Germany or comparable, employment relationship in Germany) and the worker with professional experience (degree or training recognised by the state in which it was obtained, two years of experience in the last five years, firm offer with a minimum gross annual salary of 45 630 euros in 2026). The conditions specific to the category are listed in the documents above.
Validity of the work visa and residence titleConditions and details
The visa for employment is as a general rule issued for a duration of up to 12 months. For a longer stay for work, the residence title is applied for at the local foreigners authority while the visa is still valid. The visa states the purpose of entry, which authorises working in Germany after entry.
Accelerated procedure for skilled workersConditions and details
The employer may initiate an accelerated procedure with the foreigners authority: an agreement is concluded between the employer and the foreigners authority, which helps to have the qualification recognised, obtains the approval of the Federal Employment Agency if necessary and checks the residence conditions linked to Germany, then issues a prior approval (Vorabzustimmung) which the employer transmits to the employee. The employee makes an appointment at the mission within three weeks and then presents the prior approval; the decision is as a general rule issued within three weeks after submission of the complete file. The employer may mandate a third party, such as a law firm or a relocation agency, with the employee's consent. The procedure also concerns the spouse and unmarried minor children who submit their application at approximately the same time.
Documents to present in the accelerated procedureConditions and details
With the visa application, the worker presents as a general rule: the completed and signed application form, with the declaration provided for by the Residence Act; the prior approval, or its copy when the mission can consult it electronically; the originals of the diplomas attached to the prior approval; the passport; two biometric photographs. The originals of the supporting documents attached to the approval must be presented to the mission, which compares them with the copies. If the mission considers other documents necessary, it states this on its website.
Approval of the Federal Employment AgencyConditions and details
For employment as a skilled worker, a residence title is issued with the approval of the Federal Employment Agency, which checks the working conditions; for most profiles, including skilled workers with vocational training and university graduates, the approval may be given without a priority check if the working conditions are comparable to those of German employees. Where this approval is necessary, the mission or the foreigners authority itself contacts the Agency, through an inter-authority procedure. The employer may also ask the Agency in advance to check the labour market conditions, which accelerates the rest of the procedure.
Early submissionConditions and details
The Federal Employment Agency recommends applying for the visa as early as possible before the planned start of employment, because processing often takes a long time, and to enquire with the competent mission about local particularities.
Processing time and approval from the foreigners authorityConditions and details
When the approval of the foreigners authority is necessary, the procedure can last up to three months, sometimes longer, because other authorities, such as the Federal Employment Agency, are often involved. Visas that authorise work often do not require this approval, which accelerates the procedure in those cases.
Nationals exempt from the visa before entryConditions and details
Nationals of the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland are exempt from the visa obligation. Those of Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States of America may apply for the required residence permit after their entry into Germany; however, they may only start working once the residence permit has been issued by the foreigners authority. This visa procedure is therefore not intended for them.
Application submitted by an authorised representative or by the employerConditions and details
Another person may submit the application online on behalf of the applicant if they present proof of power of representation. However, the applicant must appear in person at the representation for the biometric data. A group application is possible for a skilled worker who travels with their family.
Residence area and online applicationConditions and details
The application is submitted to the representation competent for the residence area. The ministry requests that the application not be submitted online to another representation when the one for the residence area does not yet offer this service: the application is then submitted on paper, by appointment at the representation or at the external service provider.
Refusal and new applicationConditions and details
In the event of refusal, the reasons are communicated to the applicant and legal recourse is open to them. The remonstrance procedure has been abolished worldwide since 1 July 2025. A new visa application remains possible at any time.

Frequently asked questions

Germany, Senegal passport: is a visa required?

Visa required for a short tourist stay with an ordinary passport.

Tourist visa: which documents are requested?

Schengen visa application form, completed online and then printed, or a paper form obtained free of charge from the mission ; Passport valid for at least three months after the planned date of exit from the Schengen area, issued less than ten years ago and containing at least two blank pages ; Photograph of the applicant meeting ICAO standards (document 9303), scanned or taken when the application is submitted ; Travel medical insurance valid throughout the Schengen area for the entire duration of stay, with a minimum coverage of 30 000 euros ; Proof of the purpose of the trip, of accommodation and of means of subsistence for the stay and the return ; Documents required by the competent German mission (details on its website or from it directly).

Tourist visa: what are the official fees?

Schengen visa — standard fee : 90 € ; Schengen visa (category A or C), in principle — nationals of Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Ukraine who are subject to the visa requirement (reduction partially suspended for Belarus) : 35 € ; Schengen visa — nationals of Cabo Verde : 67.50 €.

Tourist visa: where do I apply?

German mission (embassy or consulate general) responsible for the area where the applicant has their habitual residence or domicile ; Visa application centre of an external provider working for the German missions, at the place of residence ; VIDEX online form “Kurzfristiger Aufenthalt” (short stay): complete the form, print it out and bring it to the appointment.

Tourist visa: how long can I stay?

Stay of up to 90 days.

Student visa: which documents are requested?

Application form for a national long-stay visa, completed online on the consular services portal, or form obtained free of charge from the German representation ; Valid passport, recognized by Germany ; Biometric identity photograph to bring to the appointment; fingerprints are taken on site ; Proof of means of subsistence for the duration of the stay: at least 992 euros per month for studies, at least 1 091 euros per month for seeking a place at university ; Certificate of sufficient health insurance covering the period of validity of the visa ; Other documents requested by the competent representation, listed in the "Your documents" section of the portal.

Student visa: what are the official fees?

National long-stay visa (type D), adult — processing fee : 75 €.

Student visa: where do I apply?

Consular services portal of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs: online application, then in-person appointment at the German representation ; German representation (embassy or consulate general) competent for the applicant's usual residence zone or domicile ; Visa application centre of an external service provider working with certain German representations; service fees may be added there.

Work visa: which documents are requested?

National long-stay visa application form, completed online on the consular services portal, or a form obtained free of charge from the German mission ; Valid passport ; Biometric identity photograph to bring to the appointment; fingerprints are taken on site ; Declaration on the employment relationship (“Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis”), completed and signed by the employer: concrete job offer in Germany ; Other documents requested by the competent mission, listed in the “Your documents” section of the portal.

Work visa: what are the official fees?

National long-stay visa (type D), adult — processing fee : 75 € ; Accelerated procedure for skilled workers at the foreigners authority (excluding recognition fees and visa fees) : 411 €.

Work visa: where do I apply?

Consular services portal of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs: online application for a visa to work, then in-person appointment at the German representation ; German representation (embassy or consulate general) competent for the habitual residence area or the domicile of the applicant ; Visa application centre of an external service provider working with certain German representations; service fees may be added there ; Employer or agency: the portal allows a German employer or an agency to submit the application for its future employee ; Federal Employment Agency (central ZAV service): online application for prior approval by the employer, before the visa application.

Official links

Visas for Germany - Federal Foreign Office (new tab) www.auswaertiges-amt.de
EUR-Lex - 02009R0810-20240628 - EN - EUR-Lex (new tab) eur-lex.europa.eu
Kurzaufenthalte bis zu 90 Tage (Schengen-Visa) - Auswärtiges Amt (new tab) www.auswaertiges-amt.de
Visa for Germany - Federal Foreign Office (new tab) www.auswaertiges-amt.de
Einreise aus Drittstaaten - Bundespolizei (new tab) bundespolizei.de
Entry/Exit System - Federal Police (new tab) bundespolizei.de
Auswärtiges Amt (Federal Foreign Office of Germany) (new tab) www.auswaertiges-amt.de
Visumhandbuch (new tab) www.auswaertiges-amt.de
Auslandsportal (new tab) digital.diplo.de
Auslandsportal (new tab) digital.diplo.de
Handreichung Visumverfahren für ausländische Studierende und Promovierende (new tab) www.auswaertiges-amt.de
Längerfristige Aufenthalte über 90 Tage (nationale Visa) - Auswärtiges Amt (new tab) www.auswaertiges-amt.de
Eröffnung eines Sperrkontos in Deutschland für Studierende vor der Einreise - Auswärtiges Amt (new tab) www.auswaertiges-amt.de
Längerfristige Aufenthalte: Studium, Schulbesuch, Sprachkurs und Ausbildung - Auswärtiges Amt (new tab) www.auswaertiges-amt.de
Auslandsportal (new tab) digital.diplo.de
Merkblatt 7 - Beschäftigung ausländischer Arbeitnehmerinnen und Arbeitnehmer in Deutschland (new tab) www.arbeitsagentur.de
Auslandsportal (new tab) digital.diplo.de
Auslandsportal (new tab) digital.diplo.de
Auslandsportal (new tab) digital.diplo.de
Vorabzustimmung für ausländische Beschäftigte | Bundesagentur für Arbeit (new tab) www.arbeitsagentur.de
Gezielte Zuwanderung gegen Mangel an Fachkräften - Auswärtiges Amt (new tab) www.auswaertiges-amt.de

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