Germany Visa RequirementsFor Iran passport holders
Iranian passport holders require a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) to enter Germany, applied for through the German embassy or a designated visa application center in Tehran. The fee is approximately USD $87 and allows stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
Iran passport holders require a visa to enter Germany.
To apply for a German Schengen visa from Iran: 1) Book an appointment at the German Embassy in Tehran or the VFS Global center handling German applications (check current procedures at tehran.diplo.de). 2) Complete the Schengen visa application form. 3) Pay EUR 80 (approximately USD $87) plus any service fee. 4) Attend your appointment for biometric enrollment. 5) Required documents: valid passport, passport photos, travel insurance (minimum EUR 30,000), confirmed return flight, hotel reservations or invitation letter (Verpflichtungserklarung) from a German resident, bank statements for 3-6 months, proof of employment or pension, and ties to Iran. 6) Processing typically takes 15 business days. 7) Collect your passport from the embassy or application center.
Germany is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Iran to Germany: What You Need to Know
Germany is the largest economy in the European Union and a major Schengen destination for Iranian travelers. It is home to a large Iranian diaspora, with hundreds of thousands of Iranians living in Germany, making family visit visas very common. The German Embassy in Tehran and its official visa application service handle applications from Iranian nationals.
Germany-Iran relations have been formally maintained at the diplomatic level, and the German Embassy in Tehran is one of the busiest Western European missions for visa processing. Germany is also a hub for business travelers from Iran engaged in trade or technical cooperation, though international sanctions complicate business travel to some extent.
The German Schengen visa application process is thorough, and the embassy requires complete and accurate documentation. Applications for visiting family members must include an invitation letter (Verpflichtungserklarung) certified by the German registration office of the host.
Practical Tips
If visiting family in Germany, ensure your host provides a formal Verpflichtungserklarung (sponsorship declaration) certified by their local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt). This is a legal document that also makes the host financially responsible for your stay. Germany uses the Euro and is a high-cost destination in cities like Munich and Frankfurt, slightly more affordable in smaller cities. The German rail network (Deutsche Bahn) is extensive, though delays are common; consider a rail pass if visiting multiple cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Iranian passport holders need a visa for Germany?
Yes, Iranian nationals require a Schengen Type C visa to enter Germany. The visa is applied for at the German Embassy in Tehran or through VFS Global.
Do Iranian passport holders need a visa for Germany?
Yes, Iranian nationals require a Schengen Type C visa to enter Germany. The visa is applied for at the German Embassy in Tehran or through VFS Global.
How much does a German Schengen visa cost for Iranians?
The Schengen visa fee is EUR 80 (approximately USD $87) plus any applicable service fee if applying through VFS Global. All fees are non-refundable.
How much does a German Schengen visa cost for Iranians?
The Schengen visa fee is EUR 80 (approximately USD $87) plus any applicable service fee if applying through VFS Global. All fees are non-refundable.
What is a Verpflichtungserklarung and does my German host need to provide one?
A Verpflichtungserklarung is a formal sponsorship declaration certified by the German registration office of your host. If you are visiting friends or family in Germany, this document is typically required. It declares that the host will cover your expenses and is legally binding.
What is a Verpflichtungserklarung and does my German host need to provide one?
A Verpflichtungserklarung is a formal sponsorship declaration certified by the German registration office of your host. If you are visiting friends or family in Germany, this document is typically required. It declares that the host will cover your expenses and is legally binding.
How long can Iranians stay in Germany with a Schengen visa?
A Schengen Type C visa allows stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period across all 27 Schengen member states. Germany itself does not impose an additional limit beyond the Schengen rules.
How long can Iranians stay in Germany with a Schengen visa?
A Schengen Type C visa allows stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period across all 27 Schengen member states. Germany itself does not impose an additional limit beyond the Schengen rules.