Conquering the German Business Visa: Your 2025 Checklist
Glife is here to demystify the German business visa process. We're sharing practical tips and updates gleaned from handling countless applications. It might sound daunting, but trust us, after reading this, you'll be ready to tackle it!
Your Step-by-Step Guide to a German Business Visa
Step 1: Identify Your Visa Type
Determine the primary purpose of your trip:
- Meeting with business partners
- Attending trade fairs, conferences, or seminars
- Participating in meetings or training programs
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents and Complete the Visa Application Form
a) Assembling Your Documents
Wondering where to find a reliable document checklist? Here's how:
- Access the link (see image).
- Focus on the document requirements listed under "Purpose of Travel". The purpose is generally divided into two categories:
1. Meetings and Collaboration with Partners
- Invitation Letter: A hard copy of the invitation letter from your German counterpart sent to Vietnam.
- The invitation should contain the following information:
- Company name
- Name of the invitee (employee being sent for business) - Full name, date of birth, passport number, job title
- Purpose of the trip
- Detailed itinerary
- Clarification on who bears the costs of the trip (the German partner or a shared arrangement).
- Proof of Collaboration: Contracts or agreements demonstrating the existing business relationship.
2. Attending Trade Fairs and Conferences
- Event Information: Detailed information about the event in Germany, including the inviting organization, complete address in Germany, and event dates. (Wait until you have the visa before paying fees for events.)
- Proof of Attendance: Evidence confirming your registration or participation in the event.
- Flight and Hotel Reservations: Make reservations for flights and accommodations for your visa application.
- Financial Resources: Including your personal financial documentation in the application strengthens your profile. (Pay stubs, bank statements, etc.)
If your company in Vietnam is covering the expenses, include these documents:
- Business Registration Certificate
- Tax Reports (for the last 3 months)
- Company Bank Statements (for the last 3 months)
Crucial Reminder: Translate certain documents (marriage certificate, land ownership certificate, employment contract, business trip assignment letter) into English or German. Submit original documents. If the original invitation letter isn't available, or you're missing some originals, provide a letter of explanation.
b) Completing the Visa Application Form
Refer to the image for a step-by-step guide. Contact us if you require further clarification.
Step 3: Schedule Your Appointment
A detailed instruction link is available below the image.
