Germany Visa from Vietnam 2026
Vietnamese citizens seeking to travel to Germany have specific visa requirements tailored to their nationality and travel purpose. Whether you are planning a holiday, pursuing higher education, seeking employment opportunities, or reuniting with family members, understanding the visa application process from Vietnam is essential for a successful outcome. This comprehensive guide covers all available visa categories, document requirements, current fees in VND, processing timelines, and provides answers to the most common questions asked by Vietnamese applicants.
Each year, thousands of Vietnamese nationals apply for visas to Germany for various purposes. The application process typically involves submitting an online or paper application, providing biometric information, attending an interview (for certain countries and visa categories), and demonstrating strong ties to Vietnam to ensure your return after the authorised stay. Visa application centres in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Processing times and requirements may differ based on the specific consular jurisdiction of the applicant's place of residence.
Visa Options for Vietnamese Citizens
Below are the main visa categories available to Vietnamese passport holders for travel to Germany. Each category has distinct eligibility requirements, processing procedures, and fees. Select the option that best matches your travel purpose.
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C): For tourism, business visits, and family visits across all Schengen countries for up to 90 days. Processing takes approximately 15 calendar days. Multiple-entry visas valid for 1-5 years are available for frequent travelers with clean immigration history and demonstrated ties to their home country. Travel insurance with EUR 30,000 minimum coverage is mandatory.
EU Blue Card: For highly skilled non-EU professionals with a recognized university degree and a job offer meeting the salary threshold of EUR 43,800 or EUR 39,683 for shortage occupations (IT, engineering, healthcare, sciences). Permanent residence can be obtained after 33 months (21 months with German language skills at B1 level). Family members can join immediately with full work rights.
Skilled Worker Visa (Employment): For qualified professionals with a vocational training qualification or university degree recognized in Germany. No minimum salary threshold applies, making this accessible for a broader range of professions. The visa is valid for up to 4 years with a pathway to permanent residence after 5 years (4 years with B1 German language proficiency).
Job Seeker Visa: A 6-month visa allowing qualified professionals to enter Germany and search for employment corresponding to their qualifications. Requires a university degree recognized in Germany and proof of sufficient financial resources (EUR 1,027 per month for the duration of stay). Candidates who secure employment during this period can convert to a work visa without leaving Germany.
Training and Apprenticeship Visa: For individuals seeking vocational training in Germany. Requires a training contract with a German company and basic German language skills at A2-B1 level. The training period typically lasts 3 years with a monthly stipend that covers living expenses. Successful completion provides a direct pathway to permanent employment and residence in Germany.
Student Visa: For full-time study at a German university. Requires university admission, proof of financial resources via a blocked account (EUR 12,324 for 2026), and health insurance coverage. Student visa holders can work 140 full days or 280 half days per year. After graduation, an 18-month job seeker visa allows searching for employment related to the qualification held.
Use our Visa Eligibility Checker to get personalised visa recommendations based on your nationality, age, education, and travel purpose.
Document Requirements for Vietnamese Citizens
Regardless of your visa category, Vietnamese applicants must submit a set of standard documents plus additional materials specific to their application type. All documents not in English or the official language of the destination country must be accompanied by certified translations. Incomplete documentation is one of the most common reasons for visa delays and refusals.
- Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity and at least two blank visa pages
- Completed and signed visa application form with the application reference number
- Two recent passport-size photographs meeting the specific requirements of the destination country
- Proof of sufficient funds including bank statements from the last 6 months, salary slips, and fixed deposit certificates
- Income tax returns or equivalent tax documents for the last 3 assessment years
- Travel itinerary including flight reservations and accommodation bookings (refundable options recommended)
- Travel health insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation for the entire duration of stay
- Employment letter on company letterhead stating position, salary, length of service, and approved leave period
- For self-employed applicants: business registration certificate, GST/VAT registration, and recent business bank statements
- For students: school or university admission letter, academic transcripts, and no-objection certificate from current institution
- Evidence of strong ties to Vietnam such as property deeds, vehicle registration, family certificates, and investment documents
- Previous passports containing travel history and previous visa copies (if applicable)
- Visa fee payment receipt and appointment confirmation letter (where applicable)
Visa Fees for Vietnamese Citizens in VND
Visa fees for Germany are typically set in the destination country's currency and converted to VND at the prevailing exchange rate on the day of payment. The table below provides estimated fee ranges for the most common visa categories. Exchange rates fluctuate daily, so check the official visa portal for the exact amount on the day of your payment.
| Visa Category | Standard Fee | Express/Premium Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist/Visitor Visa | Equivalent of EUR 80-100 in standard fee | Priority processing: additional 50-100% of standard fee |
| Student Visa | Equivalent of EUR 100-150 plus health surcharge where applicable | Premium service: where available |
| Work Visa | Varies by category and duration | Often available at additional cost |
| Family Reunion Visa | Varies by destination country | Not typically available |
All fees are non-refundable regardless of the application outcome. Additional costs may include visa application centre service fees, courier charges for passport return, biometric enrolment fees, medical examination costs, translation and notarisation fees, and travel insurance premiums. Budget for these additional expenses when planning your visa application.
Processing Times for Vietnamese Citizens from Vietnam
Visa processing times vary significantly based on the visa category, application volume at the respective embassy or consulate, the completeness of your application, and time of year. Peak application seasons and public holidays in both Vietnam and Germany can extend processing times. As a general rule, apply at least 2-3 months before your intended travel date and avoid booking non-refundable travel until your visa is approved.
| Visa Category | Standard Processing | Priority Processing |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist/Visitor | 15 days | N/A |
| Student | 4-12 weeks | N/A |
| Work | 4-12 weeks | N/A |
| Family Reunion | 8-12 weeks | Not typically available |