Germany Visa Fees 2026: Costs, Types & Extensions

Germany offers various visa types for different stays, including short-stay (Schengen), long-stay (national), permanent residence, temporary residence, and the EU Blue Card, each with distinct fees and extension costs essential for planning employee relocations.
Visa fees may vary slightly depending on the embassy or immigration office, with payments accepted in cash, card, or bank transfer, and fees generally non-refundable even if applications are denied.
Additional immigration-related costs to consider include mandatory health insurance (€320-€600/month), accommodation deposits (2-3 months' rent), monthly rent (€800-€1,500), living expenses (€580-€960/month per person), and German language courses (€200+), which are critical for budgeting.
For a smooth visa application process, it is advised to apply early (6-12 weeks ahead), prepare complete and accurate documentation, check for any fee exemptions, budget for all related expenses, and stay updated with official German consulate information to avoid delays or issues.

Germany remains one of the most sought-after destinations for travelers, students, and professionals thanks to its rich culture, strong economy, and high quality of life. For employee relocations—whether short visits, long-term stays, or permanent moves—understanding visa fees and related costs is essential for a smooth process.

This updated guide (as of 2026) breaks down visa types, fees (including for minors), extension costs, and tips to navigate the system.

Visa Fees Overview

The table below summarizes costs for major German visa and permit types:

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Visa Type	Initial Fee (Adults)	Initial Fee (Children/Minors)	Extension Fee	Notes
Short-Stay Visa (Schengen)	€90	€45 (6–11 years); Free (<6 years)	Free (exceptional cases)	Extensions are rare and granted mainly on humanitarian grounds. Fee unchanged since the June 2024 increase.
Long-Stay Visa (National)	€75	€37.50 (under 18)	€75	Reduced fee for minors. Applies to work, study, family reunification, and other national visa categories.
Temporary Residence Permit	€50–€110	Same as adults	€50–€80	Fee varies by purpose and duration; commonly around €100.
EU Blue Card	€100	Not applicable	€93–€96	Depends on extension length. Salary thresholds updated for 2026: €50,700 (regular) or €45,934.20 (shortage occupations).
Permanent Residence Permit	€113–€147 (up to €255 in some categories)	Same as adults	Not applicable	Varies by category (e.g., skilled workers €113; highly qualified €147). No routine renewal required.

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Additional Information

Fees can vary slightly by embassy, consulate, or local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde).
Payment typically in cash (euros/local currency), card, or bank transfer—check specific guidelines.
Fees are non-refundable in most cases, even if denied (exceptions rare).

Detailed Breakdown of Visa Types

Short-Stay Visa (Schengen Visa)Allows up to 90 days in 180 for tourism, business, or family visits.
- Validity: Up to 90 days/180.
- Fees: Adults €90; Children 6–11 €45; Under 6 free.
- Exemptions: EU/EEA family members, researchers, school pupils on trips.
- Extensions rare, usually free for humanitarian/force majeure reasons.
Long-Stay Visa (National Visa)For stays over 90 days (work, study, job-seeking, family reunion).
- Validity: Exceeds 90 days; often initial entry visa leading to residence permit.
- Fees: Adults €75; Minors under 18 €37.50.
- Exemptions: Public scholarship holders (and families), diplomats.
- Extensions: Possible if purpose continues; €75 fee.
Permanent Residence Permit (Settlement Permit)Grants indefinite stay/work rights (path to citizenship possible).
- Fees: Skilled workers €113; Freelancers €124; Highly qualified €147; Certain categories (e.g., Turkish citizens) lower.
- Minors pay same as adults.
- No routine extensions/renewals; reissuance fees may apply for changes.
Temporary Residence PermitFor limited periods (work, study, etc.).
- New application: €50–€110 (adults/minors same).
- Extensions: €50–€80, based on duration/purpose.
EU Blue CardFor highly qualified non-EU/EEA professionals; pathway to permanent residence.
- Fees: Initial €100; Extensions €96 (up to 3 months) or €93 (over 3 months).
- 2026 Update: Minimum gross annual salary €50,700 (or €45,934.20 for shortage occupations like IT, engineering, healthcare).Read our detailed EU Blue Card guide: Eligibility, Benefits, and Application.

Additional Costs Related to Immigration‍

Relocation goes beyond visas—budget for:

Health Insurance: Mandatory; €320–€600+/month (varies by coverage/family).
Accommodation: Deposit 2–3 months' rent (€2,400–€4,500+); Monthly rent €800–€1,500+ (city-dependent).
Living Expenses: €580–€960+/month per person (food, transport, utilities).
Language Courses: €200–€1,000+ depending on level/provider.
Other Blocked account (if required, e.g., students ~€1,091/month in 2026); translations, notarizations.

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Tips for a Smooth Application Process

Apply Early At least 6 weeks (short-stay) or 12 weeks (long-stay) in advance.
Prepare Documents Thoroughly Incomplete/inaccurate submissions cause most delays/rejections.
Check Exemptions Verify reduced/no fees based on nationality/purpose.
Budget Holistically Factor in health insurance, housing, and daily costs.
Stay Updated Policies/fees can change; always check official sources like the German Federal Foreign Office (auswaertiges-amt.de), Make it in Germany portal, or your local embassy/consulate.

Conclusion‍

Germany provides diverse visa options for tourism, work, study, business, or permanent relocation. Fees and requirements vary by type, duration, and applicant (adult vs. minor). With no major fee changes in 2026 for core visas (though EU Blue Card salary thresholds rose), early planning and accurate budgeting ensure a hassle-free experience for your employees.

This is one area we specialize in at Jobbatical! Have a free short chat with us to explore seamless relocation options.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the standard fee for a German national visa (D visa)?

The standard fee for a German national visa (D visa) for longer stays is €75 for adults and €37.50 for minors.

How much does a Schengen visa (short-stay) cost for adults and children?

A Schengen short-stay visa costs €90 for adults aged 12 years and above, €45 for children between 6 and 12 years, and is free of charge for children under 6 years of age.

For which categories of persons are the visa fees generally waived?

Visa fees are generally waived for spouses, same-sex partners in a registered civil union, and minor unmarried children of German citizens or EU/EEA nationals, in line with family reunification provisions.

What is the key difference between a Schengen visa and a National visa?

A Schengen visa (C visa) is intended for short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, such as tourism or business visits. A National visa (D visa) is issued for stays longer than 90 days, typically for purposes like employment, study, or family reunification.

What other major costs should be considered besides the visa fee when planning a move to Germany?

In addition to visa fees, applicants should budget for mandatory health insurance, typically ranging from €320 to €600 per month, accommodation deposits usually equal to two to three months’ rent, and ongoing monthly rent that commonly falls between €800 and €1,500 depending on the city and housing type.