Do I Need a Visa for Business Travel to Germany?

By Michael Ferguson

When planning a business trip to Germany, it is important to check the visa requirements. Depending on the country of origin and length of stay, travelers may require a visa to enter Germany.

Citizens of the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area do not need a visa for business travel to Germany. The Schengen Area consists of 26 European countries that have abolished passport and any other type of border control at their mutual borders. This includes Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands , Norway , Poland , Portugal , Slovakia , Slovenia , Spain , Sweden and Switzerland.

Certain non-EU citizens are able to enter Germany without a visa for short stays (up to 90 days). These include travelers from Australia and New Zealand as well as citizens from Japan.

Citizens from other countries must obtain a visa before they can travel to Germany.

The type of visa that is required depends on the purpose of the visit and length of stay in Germany. Business travelers must apply for a Schengen Visa (Type C). This type of visa is valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period throughout the Schengen Area.

For longer stays in Germany (more than 90 days), an additional visa or permit is required. Depending on the reason for the visit (work or study) it will be either a Residence Permit (for longer stays) or an Employment Visa (for work purposes).

Conclusion

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Before planning business travel to Germany it is important to check whether or not you need a visa. EU and Schengen Area citizens do not require a visa for short stays in Germany whereas certain non-EU citizens can enter without one for up to 90 days. For longer stays or work purposes additional visas and permits may be required.