Germany's Federal Foreign Office updated its visa guidance on June 16, 2026. It states that third-country nationals generally need a visa unless an EU exemption applies, and that stays of up to 90 days normally use a Schengen visa.
Applicants must generally apply through the German mission or external visa service responsible for their ordinary place of residence. The responsible Schengen state is normally the country of the sole or main destination.
The Consular Services Portal can accept online applications for several long-stay purposes, but Schengen visa applications cannot yet be submitted through that portal. Applicants should still expect an in-person appointment for biometrics and document checks.