Who needs a visa?

Foreign nationals are generally required to obtain a visa for stays of more than three months. Exceptions to this rule are EU nationals (European Union), EEA nationals (European Economic Area), and Swiss nationals.

Citizens of Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland can also obtain the necessary residence permit after entering Germany from the relevant immigration office in Germany. You do not need to apply for a visa before moving to Germany. However, you may only take up employment once you have obtained the relevant German residence permit.

For all other nationals with their usual place of residence in Bulgaria, the following principle applies: You must apply for a visa for a longer-term stay at the Embassy in Sofia before entering Germany.

Exceptions:

• Holders of an EU long-term residence permit:
  Holders of a valid Bulgarian residence permit „Long-term EU resident“ without any additional restrictions can enter Germany without a visa and apply for a residence permit directly at the local immigration office.
• Researchers participating in mobility programs
• Students participating in mobility programs

Which visa do I need?

Use the Visa-Navigator to find out which visa you will need.

How do I apply for the visa?

Choose the applicable category below to find more informaiton about the application procedure: