Finding the right visa – All types of visas explained clearly

Travel broadens horizons – but before it starts, many face an important step: applying for a visa.

A visa is an official authorization to enter a foreign country. It regulates how long you can stay there and for what purpose. Those traveling outside the EU often need a visa – for example, for a vacation, study, or a longer work stay.

However, with the multitude of types of visas, it is often difficult to keep track.

• What types of visas are there?

• Which visa do I need for my destination?

• How does the application process work?

This guide answers exactly these questions – clearly, up-to-date, and with many practical tips.

What can you expect in this guide?

✔️ An overview of the most important types of visas: tourist visa, business visa, study visa, family visa, and more.
✔️ Step-by-step instructions for applying for a visa
✔️ Information on validity, documents, and entry requirements
✔️ Recommendations on what is particularly important during the application process

Who is this guide intended for?

Whether you are applying for a visa for the first time or already have experience – here you will find all important information compact in one place.
The focus is on visas for Germany, the EU, and other popular travel countries. However, most of the advice is also applicable to other countries worldwide.

Important note:

The entry requirements and visa rules vary from country to country. Before each trip, check with the relevant embassy or use our practical Visa Check to find out which visa you need.

A visa is an official permission that allows you to enter another country and stay there for a specific period of time. It is usually issued by an embassy or consulate of the destination country.

A visa serves to control entry and ensure that only persons with legitimate travel reasons and sufficient means enter the country.

Typical reasons for a visa are:

• Vacation travel

• Business appointments

• Study or training

• Family visits

• Medical treatments

Not all travelers need a visa – for some countries there is visa-free entry, e.g., within Europe for EU citizens or for short stays in the Schengen area (up to 90 days).

A visa is usually required in the following cases:

• For stays over 90 days

• With a non-EU passport for entry into Germany or other EU countries

• If the destination country does not allow visa-free entry for your nationality

• For specific purposes such as studying, working, marriage or family reunification

A visa also documents your intention to return: It shows the authorities that you intend to leave the country after your stay expires.

The Schengen Visa is one of the most well-known visas worldwide. It allows you to move freely within 26 European countries – without any border checks. Ideal for vacation travel, business trips, or family visits with up to 90 days of stay.

The Schengen Area is a union of European countries that have abolished their internal borders for travelers. These include, among others:

Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Portugal, Belgium, and many more.

✔️ Maximum 90 days within 180 days
✔️ Valid for single or multiple entries
✔️ Validity depends on the application and travel documentation

A Schengen visa is required for citizens from countries that require a visa, such as:

• India

• China

• Turkey

• Russia

• Ukraine

• many African and Asian countries

Some countries have visa-free arrangements for short stays. Use our Visa Check to check if you need a visa.

• Valid passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond travel)

• Travel insurance with coverage of at least 30,000 €

• Invitation or Hotel booking

• Proof of financing

• Return flight ticket or travel itinerary

Applications are submitted at the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting first or where you will stay the longest.

✔️ A single permit for 26 countries
✔️ Flexible travel within Europe
✔️ Often also possible as a multiple-entry visa
✔️ Basis for later national visa or residence permit

A national visa is required if you want to stay more than 90 days in a specific country – for example for working, studying, or as part of a family reunion.

Unlike the Schengen visa, it is valid only for the respective country for which it was issued.

This visa is aimed at people who:

• want to complete a study or language course

• have taken up a permanent job in the target country

• enter the country as part of a family reunion

• plan a marriage abroad or visit a spouse

• require long-term medical treatment

The requirements may vary by country, but generally include:

• Valid passport

• Visa application form

• Proof of purpose of stay (e.g., employment contract, admission letter, marriage certificate)

• Proof of financial means

• Proof of accommodation

• if applicable language certificates or other country-specific requirements

Detailed checklists can be found at: Visa Documents prepare

A national visa is often converted into a residence permit after arrival in the destination country. The local foreigner's offices are then responsible.

Important:

• The processing can take several weeks – apply early.

• National visas are not suitable for tourist purposes.

• Travel within the EU is only limited possible with a national visa.