How to Apply Germany Visa For UAE Residents in 2025
Germany, known for its rich history, advanced infrastructure, and cultural diversity, welcomes tourists from around the world. However, unlike Emirati citizens, who can visit Germany visa-free for up to 90 days, UAE residents must navigate a specific visa application process to gain entry.
This involves demonstrating a strong travel history and providing a comprehensive set of documents to support your application.
In this guide, I will share with you important steps to apply for a Germany visa, including the required documentation, visa fees, and expected processing times.
By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on your German adventure with confidence.
Required Documents for Germany Visa For UAE Residents
Below, I’ve outlined the necessary documents you’ll need to submit:
1. Visa Application Form: The application form must be fully completed online in either Greek or English. Handwritten forms are not accepted.
If the applicant is under 18, both parents or legal guardians must sign the application in front of a Visa Officer. Copies of both parents’ or guardians’ passports are required.
2. Passport and Residence Visa:
Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen area. It should also have been issued within the last ten years and contain at least two consecutive blank pages.
If applicable, the residence permit must also be valid for at least three months after your intended departure.
Provide photocopies of your passport’s data page, residence permit, and any previous Schengen visas. If you have a new passport, include copies of your old passport as well.
3. Recent Passport Photograph: You will need one recent color photograph (not older than six months) sized 3.5 cm x 4 cm, with a white background. Ensure that no head or face coverings obstruct visibility of your facial features.
4. Travel Medical Insurance
Your insurance must cover the entire period of your stay and be valid for all Schengen states. It should provide coverage for repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention, emergency hospital treatment, or death, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
5. Flight Ticket Reservation: Include a copy of your flight ticket reservation, which must match the travel dates mentioned in your application.
6. Proof of Sufficient Means of Subsistence
Recent payslips
A valid international credit card along with recent bank statements
Bank account statements from the last three months, originally stamped by the bank (internet extracts are not acceptable)
Individual: 25,000 – 30,000 AED
With Family: Add 10,000 AED for each additional person.
A national form for proof of sponsorship or accommodation
7. Proof of Accommodation: Provide either a hotel reservation, proof of rental or ownership of real estate in Germany, or confirmation from a company inviting you that they will cover your accommodation costs.
8. Employment or Sponsor Letter
Employees: An original letter from your employer stating your employment status, position, length of contract, and salary, along with a copy of the company’s trade license.
Self-Employed: Provide a valid original trade license.
For Minors: An authorization or No Objection Certificate (NOC) from both parents or legal guardians must be signed in the presence of a VFS officer.
9. Additional Mandatory Documents: Birth certificates are required for minors and those sponsored by parents. Documents must be in Greek or English; translations are necessary if not.
10. For Third Nationals & EU Spouses: If sponsored by a spouse or traveling with family, submit an attested marriage certificate, along with passport copies and an undertaking letter from the third national or EU spouse.
11. Greek Spouse Requirements: The marriage certificate should be issued from the respective Municipality Office in Greece, along with a passport copy and an undertaking letter from the Greek spouse.
12. Additional Documents for Tourism: f traveling for tourism, a full travel itinerary is mandatory.
How to Apply Germany Visa For UAE Residents?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully apply for your visa.
Step 1: Understand the Types of Visa
Before starting your application, determine the type of visa you need. The most common types for travelers are:
Schengen Visa (Type C): For short stays (up to 90 days) for tourism, business, or family visits.
National Visa (Type D): For long stays (over 90 days) such as work or study.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documentation
Gather the required documents to support your visa application. I already explained the checklist above to ensure you have everything you need.
Step 3: Schedule Your Appointment
To apply, you must book an appointment at the nearest VFS Global center. Here are a few tips:
Location Matters: If you’re based in Dubai, you’ll need to submit your application there. For residents of Abu Dhabi or Al Ain, make sure to schedule your appointment accordingly.
Check Availability: Appointments may be limited, so check regularly for slots. Abu Dhabi typically has more availability than Dubai.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
On the day of your appointment:
Arrive Early: This allows you time to settle and ensure you have all your documents ready.
Submit Your Documents: Hand over your application form and all required documents to the visa officer.
Biometrics: You may need to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) as part of the application process.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
The visa fee varies depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Make sure to check the current fee structure and be prepared to pay via the accepted payment methods at the VFS center.
Step 6: Wait for Processing
Visa processing times can vary. Generally, you can expect to wait anywhere from 15 to 30 days. During this time, it’s essential to be patient and avoid making any travel plans until you receive your visa.
Step 7: Collect Your Visa
Once your visa application has been processed, you’ll be notified when to collect your passport. Make sure to check the visa details for accuracy before leaving the VFS center.
Step 8: Plan Your Travel
With your visa in hand, it’s time to finalize your travel plans. Ensure your accommodation, transport, and itinerary are all set. Keep all travel documents handy during your journey.
Final Tips
Create a Strong Travel Plan: Keep your travel itinerary focused and concise. Mention only one or two cities in Germany to enhance your chances of approval.
Demonstrate Ties to the UAE: In your cover letter, clarify your reasons for returning home after your trip to alleviate any concerns the visa officer may have regarding overstaying.
German Visa Fee for UAE Residents
Here’s a breakdown of the visa fees applicable for UAE residents, including important notes on exemptions and additional charges.
Standard Visa Fees
Adult Applicants
Fee Amount: €90 (approximately 360 AED)
Remarks: This fee applies to each visa application for adults seeking to travel to Germany.
Children Below 12 Years
Fee Amount: Free of charge
Remarks: Children under the age of 12 do not have to pay a visa fee when applying for a German visa.
Citizens from Specific Countries
Fee Amount: €35 (approximately 140 AED)
Applicable To: Nationals from countries such as Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), the Republic of Moldova, Georgia, Ukraine, Montenegro, and Serbia—provided they do not hold biometric passports.
Remarks: This fee is applicable to each application from these countries.
Additional Service Fees
Service Fee: €88 (amount in AED varies)
Remarks: This service fee is applicable to each visa application and includes all relevant taxes. It covers the processing and handling of your visa application at the VFS Global center.
Important Considerations
Payment Methods: Ensure you check the accepted payment methods at the VFS center where you submit your application. It’s advisable to bring the exact amount in AED or check if card payments are accepted.
Fee Changes: Visa fees can change, so it’s essential to verify the current rates on the official VFS Global website or the German Embassy’s website before applying.
I'm Haris Ali. I am resident of United Arab Emirates. I've been working with identification documents in UAE for over 8 years. I've gained valuable experience from working with various government authorities in the region, especially with documents like the Emirates ID.
In my free time, I enjoy playing cricket and exploring new destinations around the world.
