The entry of non-EU citizens into Germany generally requires a visa issued by the German diplomatic mission (embassy, consulate) in the country of origin.
For a stay of more than 90 days, e.g. in the context of family reunification, or to pursue gainful employment, visas are issued as so-called "national" visas. The requirements for the issue of a national visa are based on the regulations applicable to the issue of a residence permit, an EU Blue Card, an ICT card, a settlement permit and an EU permanent residence permit and therefore differ depending on the purpose of the stay (see "Related topics").
After entry, the national visa may have to be replaced by another residence permit to be applied for at the relevant immigration authority. The application must be made within the period of validity of the visa.
Visas for short stays (e.g. tourist or visiting stays, business trips) of up to 90 days per 180-day period are to be distinguished from national visas. These are usually issued as so-called "Schengen visas" (see "Related topics" - "Schengen visa; issue and extension").
Exceptions to the visa requirement apply to nationals of
- Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, the USA,
- Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, New Zealand and the
- Republic of Korea,
who may always enter the country without a visa, regardless of the duration and purpose of their stay.
This also applies to nationals of Andorra, Brazil, El Salvador, Honduras, Monaco and San Marino, provided they do not wish to pursue gainful employment.
For tourist stays (up to 90 days per 180-day period), nationals of many countries are also exempt from visa requirements. Gainful employment is not permitted during the visa-free stay. An immediate extension of the visit is generally not possible without further ado.
Further information on visa requirements, visa exemption and the procedure as well as the Schengen states can be found on the website of the Federal Foreign Office (see "Related links"). Basic information on the requirements for the visa procedure can also be obtained from the Foreigners' Registration Office.
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