Application Process

1. Are visas issued by VisaMetric?

Only the German Embassy of has the right to make decisions on issuing visas.

2. In what cases should I get a transit visa?

A transit visa for citizens of the Russian Federation is not required if you do not leave the transit zone at the airport in Germany, and boarding the next flight takes place without passing through border control. You can find more detailed information on the stay for the purpose of transit at the link.

Citizens of some countries (for example, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Sri Lanka) must apply for a transit visa (Type A) if they do not have a valid Schengen visa or a residence permit issued by the State-a member of the Schengen.

3. How long does it take the German Embassy to process my application for a Schengen/national visa?

The processing time and decisions on the application remain at the discretion of the German Embassy. You can find more information about the processing time on our website in the Processing Time section.

4. How much does it cost to get a visa?

The cost of the visa fee and preferential categories can be found in the section Fees on our website.

5. Where can I pay the visa fee and VisaMetric services?

Payment for all services is made after the completion of the visa application procedure at the cash desk of the visa application center.

6. Why do I need to be fingerprinted when applying for a Schengen visa?

From 14.09.2015, all applicants are required to provide their biometric data as part of applying for a Schengen visa. The data obtained will be used for the European Visa Information System (VIS). Visa departments in Germany are bound by European law and are responsible for the preservation of personal data of applicants. You can find more detailed information about the biometrics procedure on our website in the Biometrics section.

An application for a Schengen visa cannot be accepted if the applicant has refused to provide biometric data and does not fall under any exceptions.

7. Do I have to take fingerprints every time I apply for a Schengen visa?

No, fingerprints taken during the visa process for the Schengen countries are valid for 59 months. In exceptional cases, VisaMetric may need to take your fingerprints again in accordance with the requests of the German Embassy.

8. Do I have to be fingerprinted every time I apply for a national visa?

Yes.

9. Where will my fingerprints be scanned?

Your fingerprints will be scanned at VisaMetric offices during the personal submission of documents.