Germany has launched a revolutionary online portal that will significantly simplify the visa application process from January 1, 2025. The new platform will allow applicants from anywhere in the world to apply for a tourist, student or work visa digitally. Find out what is already known about the German consular services portal

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A new stage in the visa application process for Germany has begun on January 1, 2025, as the German government has launched a revolutionary online Consular Services Portal. This platform significantly simplifies and speeds up the visa application process for people around the world, including citizens of Armenia, Albania and Turkmenistan.

Read more about important updates to the German visa application process in 2025.

What has changed for expats in Germany with the launch of the digital visa application platform?

From January 1, 2025, applicants for a national German visa will receive a simpler application process thanks to the Consular Services Portal. This digital resource has replaced the traditional paper application system, which often included long forms, high postage costs and long waiting times at consulates or embassies.

The website will be able to process 28 types of visas, including tourist, student, skilled worker and family reunification.

In total, 167 visa offices and embassies have been connected to the system, which has significantly simplified the application process.

Why was it important for Germany to launch this portal?

Foreign Minister Annalena Berbock stressed the importance of launching the online portal, citing Germany’s annual need for 400,000 skilled workers to support its economy.

For citizens of countries that do not have visa-free travel agreements with Germany, obtaining a visa has historically been a difficult process. By digitizing the system, Germany aims to make the procedure faster, more accessible and less expensive for applicants.

The digital visa procedure is a real administrative revolution that is contributing to Germany’s development as a business hub. As one of the largest economies and a modern immigration country, Germany now has a national visa procedure that is fully digital and secure.

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How to get a visa on the new German portal?

From now on, to get a German visa, the applicant must go through the following three stages:

1. Submit an online application

The visa application procedure begins with filling out an online form on the consular services portal and uploading the necessary documents, such as a passport and proof of qualifications. To do this:

- Go to the Visa Services portal and select the appropriate visa application form.

- Upload the necessary documents: passport, proof of qualifications and other supporting files.

2. Preliminary examination

The German authorities conduct a preliminary examination of the application. If additional information is required, specialists will send a request for it through the portal.

3. Personal verification

At the next stage, applicants are scheduled for a personal appointment at the nearest German embassy or consulate. This step is key to verifying identity, checking documents and collecting biometric data.

4. Wait for the visa

Important! To help applicants determine the type of visa they need, use the Visa Navigator tool on the portal.

Whether you plan to work, study or explore Germany, this innovative system will provide you with a simpler visa process.

As a reminder, new rules for calculating and collecting property tax in Germany came into effect in January 2025. We have already told you what has changed for expats who have already bought housing in Germany, plan to do so, as well as for tenants.

Ihor Usyk - head of Visit World's legal department

When working abroad, expats often have various legal issues, because the legislation of each country is special. Consulting a specialist will help you understand all the intricacies of labor law. A labor and business lawyer is your reliable assistant in solving simple and complex issues in any corner of the world.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in Germany;

Legal advice on business issues in Germany;

Travel insurance for foreigners in Germany;

Medical insurance around the world.

We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information, so if you notice any errors or inconsistencies, please contact our hotline.