Germany remains one of the most visited destinations in Europe, attracting tourists, business travellers and people visiting family and friends. For citizens of countries that do not have a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Area, a Germany Schengen visa is required for short stays of up to 90 days.
The visa, officially known as the Schengen C Visa, allows travellers to visit Germany and other countries in the Schengen zone for tourism, sightseeing, leisure travel or family visits. The visa is generally valid for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period and may be issued as a single-entry, double-entry or multiple-entry visa depending on the applicant's circumstances.
Who needs a Germany tourist visa?
Travellers from countries such as India, China, Indonesia, the Philippines and South Africa must obtain a Schengen visa before travelling to Germany. Citizens of visa-free countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, can visit Germany for up to 90 days without a visa.
However, visa-free travellers should note that an electronic travel authorisation requirement is expected to apply before travel to Germany from April 2027.
