Here’s a detailed look at the Germany Schengen Visa trends from 2024 and how you can secure one in 2025.
Germany’s Schengen Visa Numbers in 2024
In 2024, German consulates and visa centres received over 1.5 million Schengen visa applications, marking a 3.6% increase from 2023’s total of 1.4 million.
Germany ranked third among all Schengen countries, receiving 12.9% of the 11.7 million total applications across Europe, according to the European Commission. While it previously held second place, Spain overtook Germany in visa applications in 2024.
Germany Schengen Visa Approval Rate
Visa issuance also saw an upward trend. Germany granted 1.29 million visas in 2024, up from 1.23 million in 2023, showing a 4.7% rise in approvals.
- Visa approval rate in 2024: 85.41%
- Visa approval rate in 2023: 84.52%
This improvement signals a more positive outcome for many applicants, great news for those planning to apply in 2025.
Top Nationalities Applying for a German Visa
Visa applicants came from 124 out of 161 countries, with some nations standing out in terms of volume. Here are the top 10 nationalities applying for Germany Schengen visas in 2024:
| Rank | Country | Applications | % of Germany’s Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | 263,088 | 17.3% |
| 2 | Türkiye | 215,506 | 14.24% |
| 3 | India | 142,955 | 9.4% |
| 4 | Egypt | 52,442 | 3.4% |
| 5 | Belarus | 51,841 | 3.4% |
| 6 | Kazakhstan | 45,094 | 2.98% |
| 7 | Saudi Arabia | 43,883 | 2.90% |
| 8 | Thailand | 39,497 | 2.61% |
| 9 | Iran | 39,146 | 2.58% |
| 10 | UAE | 32,956 | 2.17% |
Notably, China, Türkiye, and India collectively accounted for over 40% of all applications received by Germany in 2024.
Who Had the Highest Visa Approval Rates?
Some nationalities enjoyed exceptionally high approval rates, making them standout success stories:
| Country | Approval Rate | Approved | Total Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hong Kong | 99.53% | 2,333 | 2,344 |
| Madagascar | 98.92% | 184 | 186 |
| Belarus | 97.33% | 50,459 | 51,841 |
| Singapore | 96.55% | 6,136 | 6,354 |
| China | 96.36% | 253,505 | 263,088 |
Applicants from Hong Kong had the best success rate, while Belarus and China also saw strong visa approval performances.
Countries Where Germany Was the #1 Schengen Destination
In 2024, several countries preferred Germany over other Schengen states:
- Botswana: 100% of visa applications (1,633) were for Germany.
- Lithuania: 98.68% (75 of 76 applications) targeted Germany.
- Namibia: 56.21% of visa requests directed at Germany.
- Mongolia: 54.36% of applicants chose Germany.
- Nepal: 53.97% of 7,817 applicants applied for a German visa.
This data shows Germany’s consistent appeal, particularly for African and Asian nationals.
How to Apply for a Germany Schengen Visa in 2025
Planning a trip to Germany in 2025? Follow this simple, updated guide to apply for your Schengen visa with confidence.
Step 1: Know Your Visa Type
Before applying, identify the correct visa category based on your travel purpose. Choosing the right type avoids delays and rejections. Common types include:
- Tourist Visa – for holidays or sightseeing trips.
- Business Visa – for meetings, conferences, or trade fairs.
- Student Visa – for short-term study, internships, or exchange programs.
- Family Visit Visa – for visiting relatives or friends residing in Germany.
Step 2: Schedule an Appointment
Once your visa type is confirmed, book an appointment online.
Visit the official Germany visa portal or your nearest VFS Global centre, or the German consulate website. Appointments can fill up fast, so book early, especially during peak travel seasons.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
Gather all required documents well in advance. Ensure they are complete, recent, and properly formatted. Missing or incorrect paperwork is the top reason for visa delays or denials.
Must-have documents include:
- Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages and 3 months’ validity after return)
- Completed and signed the visa application form
- Recent passport-size photographs (as per Schengen photo guidelines)
- Proof of travel (flight reservation and hotel bookings)
- Travel insurance covering a minimum of €30,000 for medical emergencies
- Financial proof (bank statements, income tax returns, payslips)
- Employment or study-related documents (if applicable)
- Invitation letter (for family visit or business visa)
- A cover letter explaining the purpose and duration of your trip
Step 4: Submit and Attend Interview
On the appointment day, visit the visa application centre with all your documents. Some applicants may need to attend a short interview, where you’ll answer questions about your travel plans and ties to your home country.
Step 5: Track Your Application
After submission, use the reference number (tracking ID) provided by VFS Global or the German consulate to monitor your visa status online. Processing usually takes 15 calendar days, but it can vary depending on the season and application volume.
Germany Schengen Visa Document Checklist (2025)
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Passport | Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond return date |
| Application Form | Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the return date |
| Photographs | Two recent passport-size photos (white background, 35x45mm) |
| Flight Itinerary | Round-trip reservation or booking confirmation |
| Hotel Booking | Proof of accommodation for the entire stay |
| Travel Insurance | Minimum coverage of €30,000, valid in all Schengen countries |
| Bank Statements | Last 3–6 months showing sufficient funds |
| Employment/Study Proof | Letter from employer or academic institution |
| Cover Letter | State your travel purpose, itinerary, and ties to your home country |
| Invitation Letter | Completed and signed the Schengen visa form |
Final Thoughts
With Germany maintaining high approval rates and a growing number of applicants worldwide, securing a Schengen visa for Germany in 2025 is very achievable with proper planning. Whether you’re travelling for tourism, education, or business, understanding recent visa trends can give you an edge in your application process.
