Germany Visa for Indian Families: Applying Together Made Simple

Planning a trip to Germany with your family is very exciting. There are plenty of things to do and see, including visiting Neuschwanstein Castle and waking up to the hustle and bustle of Berlin. However, before you begin packing your bags and setting your itinerary, one important thing you need before you travel is a Germany visa for Indians. This is all the more reason to understand the German visa process, especially if you’re applying with your family. 

The visa process can appear complex at first for most families, but with the right information, it can be very smooth and less hassle. This guide will take you from step one to the final step in applying for a German visa with everyone in your family. You will learn about the document you need to bring, the fees you pay, and the dos and don’ts in making your appointments, in addition to what you need so your application isn’t delayed.

If you are going on holiday, visiting relatives, or attending an event, this guide will ensure your visa application goes as smoothly as possible. 

Understanding the Visa to enter Germany for Indian Families

If you, as a family, are traveling together for tourism (leisure), visiting family, participating in events, or for short-term business visits, you are able to submit one family application for a Germany short-stay visa (Schengen Visa). A Schengen visa allows you to enter Germany (or other Schengen countries) for a period of up to 90 days in total within 180 days.

For all other longer-stay situations where a family travels together, such as for work, study, or relocation, national long-stay visas for each family member would need to be applied for.

Step-by-Step Germany Visa Application Process for Families

Here’s a simplified process outline for Indian families traveling together:

Step 1: Determine the Correct Type of Visa

If you are traveling together as a family for less than 90 days, each member of your family will need a Tourist Schengen Visa; however, if you are visiting a family member in Germany, you can apply for a Visitor Visa based on your relative’s invitation letter. 

Step 2: Complete Separate Application Forms for Each Family Member

Each family member, including minors, will have their own form. You can do this online through the official VIDEX site, or you can download the forms and complete them by hand. 

• Don’t forget to check and make sure the following are consistent across all forms: 
• Dates of travel and where you are staying will be the same on each form. 
• Parents sign for their own minor children. 

Step 3: Gather Required Documentation

While all family members will have the same structure of documentation, children will have some supplemental documentation. Here is a checklist: 

For Adults:

A valid passport with at least 2 blank pages and valid for at least 3 months beyond the return date 

• Completed visa application form 
• Two recent biometric passport-size photographs 
• Travel itinerary (flight bookings and hotel bookings) 
• Travel insurance to cover illness or emergencies with a minimum coverage of €30,000 
• Proof of funds available in bank statement/ITR/salary slips 
• Cover letter outlining the intent of travel 

For Children: 

• Birth certificate 
• Parents’ passports and visas (copies) 
• Consent letter signed by both parents 

Step 4: Schedule an Appointment for the Family

Arrange a single appointment for the family at your nearest VFS Global center or German consulate. A same-time appointment will ensure that your documents are processed together, and it may help to minimize delays.

Step 5: Attend Appointment Together

At the time of the appointment:

– Arrive early and bring all original documents and photocopies. 

– Each person over the age of 12 must submit their biometrics (fingerprints).

– Each person in the family should present their visa fees for the payment to help keep track of payments.

Step 6: Wait for Processing 

Visa processing generally takes 10-15 working days, but can take longer during peak season. Track the status of your application online, using the reference number.

Germany Visa Fees for Families

This is the expected fee:

Adults (12 years and older):

• Visa Fee: €80
• Approx. INR: ₹7,200

Children (6-11 years):

• Visa Fee: €40
• Approx. INR: ₹3,600

Children (younger than 6 years):

• Visa Fee: Free
• Approx. INR: Free

Other Costs:

• VFS Service Fee: Required at time of application.
• Courier Fees (Optional): For passport delivery back home once processed.

Advice for Hassle-Free Family Visa Applications

• Make Sure All Travel Dates Are the Same: Make sure each application has the same travel dates with the same accommodation bookings to eliminate confusion.
• Book Appointments Early: This is particularly important if you are traveling during summer or Christmas – they book up quickly.
• Check Documents Twice: Missing consent letters or an out-of-date passport are the most common reasons for a visa rejection or delay.
• Get Family-Friendly Travel Insurance: Ensure it covers everyone, including children, throughout the trip.
• Prepare Your Family for Biometrics: If you have older kids, explain what the appointment will involve so they are not freaked out by the idea of fingerprinting.

Conclusion

The process of applying for a German visa for Indians as a family may seem intimidating at first, but with the proper guidance and some planning, it is easy and seamless. Applying as a family, being consistent with your travel plans, and ensuring that all members have complete documents can help you avoid unnecessary delays.

Germany has an incredible culture, beautiful architecture, and family-friendly activities and attractions. It will certainly be an unforgettable location for your next holiday. By planning ahead of time, relying on suggested and trusted services in the process, like OneVasco, you can have a stress-free experience in getting your visas approved. After everything is done, you can focus on what matters most — making amazing memories with your loved ones on your European adventure.