Germany Visa Guide for Indian Citizens in UK Complete Application Guide 2025
Yes, Indian citizens living in the UK need a Schengen visa to visit Germany. Your Indian passport—not your UK residence—decides if you need a visa. Apply at the VFS Global center in London, located at 1st Floor, 66 Wilson Street, London EC2A 2BT.
Berlin, Germany
Brandenburg Gate
Munich, Germany
Historic Marienplatz
Frankfurt, Germany
Financial District
Need Help with Your Germany Visa?
Get expert assistance and improved approval rates through our specialized visa services
Germany Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens in the UK
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply
UK Residency Requirements
- ✓ Valid BRP or residence visa (visitor visas not accepted).
- ✓ UK residence permit valid for your whole trip (ideally +6 months buffer).
Basic Eligibility
- ✓ No strict age limit; minors need parental consent.
- ✓ Passport valid 6+ months beyond intended stay.
- ✓ Valid purposes: tourism, business, study, family visit.
Who Cannot Apply
- ✗ Short-term UK visitors.
- ✗ Applicants with expired residence permits.
Required Documents Checklist
Essential Documents
Travel Arrangements
Status Documentation
Additional Requirements
💡 Pro Tip: Double-check passport validity & UK residence status before booking your appointment. Missing or expired docs are the #1 cause of rejections.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow these steps if you want to handle the application yourself
Determine Visa Type
Tourist, business, family visit, or study. Most travelers need a short-stay Schengen visa (up to 90 days).
Book Appointment
Schedule through VFS Global or German consulate website before applying.
Gather Documents
Passport, UK residence permit, travel insurance, accommodation proof, flight tickets, and financial documents.
Attend Biometrics
Submit fingerprints and a photograph at the visa application center.
Pay Visa Fee
Adult fee: €80; children (6–12 years): €40. Payable at the VFS center.
Wait for Processing
Standard processing takes around 15 working days. Apply well in advance.
Visa Fees and Processing Costs
Adults
€80 (≈ £70)
Children 6-12
€40 (≈ £35)
Children under 6
Free
Additional Service Fees
TLScontact charges around £25 for biometric collection, document handling, and appointment booking. Optional extras like prime time slots cost more.
Processing Timelines
Processing usually takes 15–30 days. During peak seasons it may stretch up to 6 weeks. Apply 6–8 weeks before travel to be safe.
Financial Requirements: How Much Money Should Indian Citizens Show?
Daily Financial Requirements
You'll need to show you've got enough money for your whole trip—Germany expects Indian applicants to prove they can cover at least €40-120 per day, depending on the type of accommodation. For a two-week trip, this means €560–€1,680. Safer to budget at the higher end.
Hotel Accommodation
€120/day
Higher daily requirement
Budget/Private Stay
€40–65/day
Lower daily requirement
💡 Bank Statement Requirements
Provide bank statements for 3–6 months showing consistent activity. Balance must cover full trip and extra funds. Avoid sudden deposits without explanation.
Additional Financial Proof
Include salary slips, tax returns, and employer letters. Strongly recommended to have at least £1,000 in your bank account for better approval chances.
Sponsorship Options
If sponsored, provide a "Verpflichtungserklärung" letter from your host, plus their ID, residence proof, and financial documents. Ensure all details match your application.
Tips to Increase Germany Visa Approval Chances for Indian Citizens in the UK
Common Rejection Reasons
Insufficient financial proof, incomplete documentation, unclear travel purpose, or weak ties to the UK are leading causes of rejection.
Preparation Strategies
Apply 6–8 weeks before travel. Organize documents chronologically with a checklist. Ensure bank statements show consistent income. Keep itineraries realistic and consistent.
Success Tips
Show strong UK ties via employment, property, or family commitments. Write a clear cover letter. Double-check all dates and details. Use the German consulate’s checklist for accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Germany from the UK?
Yes, Indian passport holders must obtain a Schengen visa, even if they live in the UK. Apply via VFS Global Germany in London. No visa-on-arrival option.
What documents are needed?
Passport (valid 3 months beyond return), completed form, photos, itinerary, health insurance, 3–6 months of bank statements, payslips, and tax returns. Invitation letter if visiting family/friends.
Processing time and cost?
Processing takes 15–30 days, longer during peak times. Fee is €80 for adults, €40 for children (6–12). TLScontact adds ~£25 service fee.
Do I have to show proof of funds?
Yes, provide bank statements from the last 3–6 months showing enough funds for accommodation, daily expenses, and travel. Sponsorship accepted with proper documents.
Expert Verification & Sources
Expert Verification
Reviewed by Visa Expert Kritika, specializing in European visas and UK-based applications (09 Sep 2025).
Source Verification
All information cross-referenced with official German Embassy sources and immigration policies as of 07 Sep 2025.
Official Source
Check official source: https://uk.diplo.de/uk-en