Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)
Travellers visiting Germany for tourism, family visits or business for up to 90 days.
The Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) is a German visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€90 (adults); ~€45 (children 6-11)) and processing time (~15 calendar days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) is for
Travellers visiting Germany for tourism, family visits or business for up to 90 days.
No path to permanent residence; purely a temporary visit visa.
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - eligibility criteria
- Valid passport issued within last 10 years, valid 3+ months beyond stay
- Travel medical insurance covering €30,000
- Proof of accommodation and travel itinerary
- Sufficient funds for the stay
- Proof of intent to return home
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) (Germany) is ~€90 (adults); ~€45 (children 6-11), with an indicative processing time of ~15 calendar days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Short stay |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a German consulate or visa centre abroad |
| Length of stay | Up to 90 days in any 180-day period |
| Work rights | No work permitted |
| Study rights | No study (short courses only) |
| Government fee | ~€90 (adults); ~€45 (children 6-11) |
| Processing time | ~15 calendar days |
| Route to PR | No path to permanent residence; purely a temporary visit visa. |
Pathway & next steps
No path to permanent residence; purely a temporary visit visa.
Many applicants also compare National D · National (D) Long-Stay Visa, Job Seeker · Job Seeker Visa for Qualified Professionals, Au Pair · Au Pair Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) pitfalls we fix
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) cost?
The Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) government fee is ~€90 (adults); ~€45 (children 6-11). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~15 calendar days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) lead to permanent residence?
No path to permanent residence; purely a temporary visit visa.
Can I work on the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)?
Work rights: No work permitted.
Who can apply for the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)?
Travellers visiting Germany for tourism, family visits or business for up to 90 days.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority