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Advance Guide for Applying German Schengen Visa from Vietnam

German Schengen visas beckon travelers from Vietnam with open arms, inviting them to uncover the wonders of the Schengen Area. Germany, with its diverse attractions, entices explorers of every kind, whether seasoned European adventurers or newcomers to the continent. Kickstart your journey in the vibrant city of Berlin, where modernity meets history in a fascinating blend of culture and innovation. Then, venture beyond the urban hustle to discover Germany’s picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and rich heritage.

This comprehensive guide illuminates the process of obtaining a Schengen visa from Vietnam to Germany. Ensure you have the necessary travel insurance for Schengen entry, meticulously plan your travel itinerary and accommodations, and navigate the visa application process smoothly. Embark on an enchanting odyssey into the heart of Europe, immersing yourself in the allure of Germany. From the fairytale castles of Bavaria to the scenic vineyards of the Rhine Valley, each region offers a distinct tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored.

If you’re considering applying for a German Schengen Visa from countries other than Vietnam, such as Belarus, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Nigeria, Pakistan explore the provided links below for relevant information. Your German adventure awaits, no matter where your journey commences! Additionally, if you want to apply to travel to countries other than Germany from Vietnam, such as Spain, France, and Italy, click the attached links for more information.

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Visitors who applied for a German Schengen Visa from Vietnam

In 2022, statistics on Schengen Visa applications revealed that a total of 15,392 Vietnamese applied for German Schengen visas.

Years Schengen State Country Consulate Number of Visa Applications Visas Issued Visas Denied Not issued rate for uniform visas
2018 Germany VIETNAM HANOI 10,084 8,517 1,563 15.50%
2019 Germany VIETNAM HO CHI MINH 10,596 8,705 1,888 17.82%
2020 Germany VIETNAM HANOI 1,148 927 221 19.25%

Applying for a German Schengen Visa from Vietnam

Vietnamese globetrotters mapping out their voyage to Germany, be it for leisurely exploration or business ventures, are obliged to secure a German Schengen Visa. The process involves submitting paperwork at the Embassy of the Schengen nation, in this scenario, the German Embassy Consulate, corresponding to the intended longest stay. The Schengen Visa unlocks the gates to a maximum 90-day stay within a 180-day timeframe, contingent upon its validity.

For Vietnamese citizens clutching German Schengen Visa aspirations from Vietnam, the pursuit unfolds at VFS Global German Visa Application Centres nestled in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Serving the German Embassy as Germany’s official accomplice, VFS Global orchestrates the process with finesse. These centers, adorned with cutting-edge amenities, orchestrate a seamless and expedited visa application journey. Whether it’s for leisurely jaunts, bustling business trips, or enriching educational excursions, the genial and well-informed personnel stationed at the center offer steadfast guidance throughout the application odyssey.

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Categories of German Schengen Visas issued at The German Embassy in Vietnam

Explore the diverse array of German Schengen Visas available for Vietnamese:

German Schengen Visa for Short Stay:

  • Tourism/Visiting Family & Friends: intended for individuals traveling for leisure or to visit relatives or friends.
  • Business: Designed for those traveling for business-related purposes.
  • Official Delegation
  • Medical Treatment: For individuals seeking medical treatment in Germany during their short stay
  • Sports and Culture Event: To attend national and international events
  • Short-term Training: For those participating in short-term training programs or workshops in Germany.

German National Visa for Long Stay:

For individuals planning to stay beyond three months, a residence permit is necessary. This covers various categories:

  • Student Visa
  • Scientists
  • Work Employment Visa
  • Vocational Training
  • Reunion with Family Members
  • Professional Drivers

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Application Technique for a Schengen Visa to Germany from Vietnam

VFS Global is an exclusive service provider for the German government, authorized to provide administrative support services to visa applicants in Vietnam. 

The steps to follow when applying for a German Visa are as follows:

1. Determine the Visa Type Needed

2. Initiate Your Visa Application

3. Schedule an Appointment

4. Pay Applicable Fees

5. Submit Your Application at the Visa Centre

6. Monitor Your Application Progress

7. Retrieve Your Passport Upon Approval

1 – Determine the Visa Type Needed

Initially, identify the necessary visa category and confirm eligibility. Once the type is determined, take note of the documents needed, complete the application form, and settle the corresponding fee. Ensure any document not in English is translated accurately for submission.

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2 – Initiate Your Visa Application

Once prepared to apply for a German Schengen Visa, download the application form, thoroughly fill it out, and print a copy. Then, proceed to the VFS Visa Application Centre to submit the completed form along with the necessary documents.

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3 – Schedule an Appointment

Select a Visa Application Centre and arrange an appointment to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and photos, at the center. Each applicant must individually book an appointment for the German Schengen Visa. Confirmation of the appointment, along with the appointment letter, will be sent via email.

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4 – Pay Applicable Fees

Upon completing your application, you’ll be required to settle your visa application fee. Download the form, print it, and bring it to the VFS Global Visa Application Centres. Payment can be made at your appointment using cash or bank cards in Vietnamese dong.

Short-stay 12 years and above = 2,150,000 VND

Short-stay 6 to 12 years = 1,100,000 VND

VFS Global Service Fee = 743,000 VND

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5 – Submit Your Application at the Visa Center

The entire visa application form must be personally submitted at the Visa Application Centre. For applicants under the age of 16, the form must be signed by both parents. To learn what happens at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre on the day of submission please visit the attached link.

6 – Monitor Your Application Progress

You’ll be notified via email once a decision has been made on your application and returned to the Visa Application Centre. If you prefer SMS updates or have limited email access, inquire about this service at the Visa Application Centre you’re visiting. Alternatively, you can monitor your visa application status online using the Reference Number from the invoice/receipt issued by the Visa Application Centre, along with your last name.

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7 – Retrieve Your Passport Upon Approval

Once your visa application has been processed, you can retrieve your documents from the Visa Application Centre or opt for courier delivery, with an extra charge. Note that certain centers exclusively offer courier return services.

For in-person collection, remember to bring the receipt from the Visa Application Centre and a valid form of government ID. If you’re authorizing someone else to collect on your behalf, they’ll need a letter of authorization signed by you, along with your receipt and their government ID.

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Required Documents for German Schengen Visa from Vietnam

Vietnam citizens applying for a German Schengen visa must provide a specific set of documents. The required documents include:

  • Fully completed and signed Schengen Visa application form for each applicant
  • Two recent biometric passport-size photographs (35 x 45 mm, white background, taken within the last six months)
  • Original passport or travel document with a validity of at least 3 months and must contain at least 2 blank pages and issued more than 10 years ago.
  • Non-Vietnamese citizens require a residence permit
  • Proof of past Schengen visas, if applicable
  • Proof of employment that includes bank statement and leave statement from the employer
  • Business registration and 3-month tax return statement for self-employed individuals
  • Pension statement if the applicant is retired
  • Proof of student enrollment in the institute, if applicable 
  • Proof of financial situation in Vietnam, including personal/family bank statements from recognized financial institutions, savings books with balance confirmation, credit card limit letters, etc.
  • Proof of sufficient funds, including bank statement
  • Family status of the applicant such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, children’s birth certificates, or death certificates of deceased spouses; if the host is a relative, proof of familial relationship
  • For children’s visas, a letter of consent from both parents or guardians, accompanied by a birth certificate and copies of parent’s passports or a District Court appointment decree
  • Travel health insurance covering medical repatriation, emergency medical, and hospital care for the entire duration of the stay in all Schengen states
  • Detailed travel itinerary, including arrival and departure flight details and, if applicable, surface travel dates to other Schengen countries.
  • Return ticket booking
  • If sponsored by a party in Germany, proof of invitation along with a copy of the sponsor’s passport or ID card
  • If sponsored by a non-financial party, an informal invitation letter and proof of funds are required
  • If there is no invitation party, proof of hotel reservation
  • Any additional or voluntarily submitted documents, such as property deeds, explanatory documents, proof of intent to return, etc.
  • The document checklist, questionnaire, and necessary forms can be downloaded from the Visa Application Official Website and submitted along with the application form.

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German Schengen Visa Processing Duration from Vietnam

The visa application process typically spans 15 working days. During this period, the Embassy or Consulate General of Germany in Vietnam might require additional documents, and information or may even request an interview, which could extend the processing timeframe.

Once you’ve submitted your visa application, you won’t have access to your passport until the process is complete. If you require your passport for other purposes during this time, please notify us during the application process. You’ll need to return the passport to the same VFS Centre where you applied as soon as possible to ensure the timely completion of your application.

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VFS Global Visa Application Centre Contact

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