Published on January 21st, 2025
On 1st January 2025, Germany launched the Consular Services Portal, a new online visa application portal. This digitalisation of the national visa process is available for Germany’s 167 visa offices worldwide and aims to simplify the application process.
Who can use the new portal?
This online portal can be used by applicants around the world when applying for a visa to travel to Germany. There are 28 different types of national visa available for selection, from EU Blue Card to standard employment or family reunification.
What are the benefits of online visa application?
The new platform aims to streamline the visa application procedure and hopes to reduce waiting times. Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock deems the online portal to be a “real administrative revolution”. This is undoubtedly necessary, as Germany is currently suffering from a major shortage of skilled workers.
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What do I need to know?
The new online system means that all documents are submitted online without any in-person contact. As a result, it is more important than ever to make sure that your documents are 100% correct and complete. Ideally, you should have a professional review your full package of documents. Otherwise, once they are in the system, even small mistakes may delay the process considerably.
Further Assistance
Would you like to find out more about the Consular Services Portal? Would you like assistance applying for a national visa from abroad? Do you need a professional to check your documents? If you would like help with any of these topics, do not hesitate to get in touch with us at Expats Guide, we will be happy to help!
