Short-Term (TYPE C)

Short-Term (TYPE C)

Short-Term (Type C) Schengen Visa for Germany and Other Schengen Countries

Overview

A Short-Term Schengen Visa (Type C) allows non-EU/EEA nationals to enter and stay in the Schengen Area—including Germany—for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It is ideal for tourism, business, family visits, short-term training, or attending events.

Who Needs a Short-Term Visa?

You need this visa if you are from a country not exempt from Schengen visa requirements. Check the Schengen Visa Requirements by Country to confirm your status.

Types of Activities Covered

  • Tourism

  • Business meetings

  • Family or friend visits

  • Cultural or sports events

  • Short-term study or training (under 90 days)

  • Medical treatment

  • Airport transit (Visa Type A) — special category, not covered here

General Requirements

✅ Basic Eligibility Criteria

  • Valid passport

  • Purpose of travel must be verifiable

  • Proof of financial means

  • Proof of accommodation

  • Intention to return after 90 days

Checklist of Required Documents

🔹 1. Application Form

  • Fully filled and signed Schengen visa application form. Download here

🔹 2. Valid Passport

  • Issued within the last 10 years

  • Valid for at least 3 months after intended return

  • At least 2 blank pages

🔹 3. Passport-Size Photos

  • Two recent biometric photos

  • White background, 35mm x 45mm

🔹 4. Proof of Travel Purpose

Depending on the purpose, provide:

  • Tourism: Flight bookings, itinerary

  • Business: Invitation letter from German company

  • Visit: Formal invitation (Verpflichtungserklärung or private letter)

  • Events: Event tickets, registration

  • Training: Confirmation letter from institution

🔹 5. Proof of Accommodation

  • Hotel bookings or formal invitation letter with accommodation commitment

🔹 6. Travel Health Insurance

  • Minimum coverage of €30,000

  • Valid for entire Schengen area

  • Must cover emergency medical expenses and repatriation

🔹 7. Proof of Financial Means

  • Recent 3–6 months bank statements

  • Sponsorship letter (if applicable)

  • Payslips / tax returns

🔹 8. Proof of Ties to Home Country

  • Employment letter, school enrollment, property deeds, family relationships

  • Return flight reservation

🔹 9. Visa Fee Payment Proof

  • Visa fee: €80 (Adults), €40 (Children 6–12), Free (under 6 or special cases)

Additional Documents (Optional or Case-Based)

Business - Invitation from German company, business license

Minors - Birth certificate, parental authorization, ID copies

Students - Student ID, enrollment certificate

Spouses - Marriage certificate, invitation from spouse

Visa Application Process

📝 Step 1: Complete Application

Fill the Schengen Visa form online (VIDEX) or by hand.

📅 Step 2: Schedule an Appointment

Book an appointment at:

  • German Embassy/Consulate

  • Authorized Visa Application Center (e.g., VFS Global)

📂 Step 3: Gather Your Documents

Refer to the above checklist. Ensure all documents are original + copies.

👥 Step 4: Attend Appointment

  • Submit biometrics (if not in past 5 years)

  • Pay visa fees

  • Submit documents

⏳ Step 5: Wait for Processing

  • Typically 15 working days (may vary by country or season)

  • In some cases, up to 45 days

📩 Step 6: Receive Decision

You will get notified to collect your passport or receive it via courier.

Important Tips

  • Apply at least 3–6 weeks before travel.

  • Do not purchase non-refundable tickets before visa approval.

  • Be consistent with details in documents (names, dates).

  • Travel insurance is mandatory.

  • You can travel to all 27 Schengen states if visa is valid for multiple entry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I extend a Schengen Visa while in Germany?
A: Only in exceptional cases like force majeure, serious illness.

Q: Can I visit multiple countries with a single visa?
A: Yes, but you must apply through the main destination or country of first entry if time is equal.

Q: Can I work with this visa?
A: No. Type C visas do not permit employment in any Schengen country.

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