Germany Schengen Visa
Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) · For Albania citizens
Planning a trip to Germany as an Albanian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for your Schengen Visa application: required documents, current fee of €90, processing time of 15 days, and strategies to improve your chances. Your Germany visa grants access to all 29 Schengen states.
Germany Schengen Visa for Albanian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Albania citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must meet specific validity requirements for Schengen entry
Complete the visa application form through the German VIDEX online portal
Two recent biometric photographs meeting Schengen requirements
Valid travel insurance covering medical emergencies across all Schengen states
Evidence demonstrating you can financially support yourself during your stay in Germany
Evidence of where you will stay during your visit to Germany
Round-trip flight itinerary showing entry and exit from Schengen area
Documentation proving your current employment status and income in Albania
Fingerprints and digital photograph taken at visa appointment
Recommended (Optional)
Personal letter explaining your travel purpose and plans
Application Process
Albanian citizens apply for a Germany Schengen visa through the German Embassy in Tirana or VFS Global.1 Follow these steps:
1. Complete VIDEX Application
Fill out the visa application form online at videx-national.diplo.de.1 Print the completed form and sign it by hand in two designated places.
2. Gather Documents
Collect all required documents including passport, photos, travel insurance, bank statements, accommodation booking, flight reservation, and employment proof.2
3. Book Appointment
Schedule your visa appointment through the German Embassy website or VFS Global.2 During peak travel season (May-August), book 4-6 weeks in advance as slots fill quickly.
4. Attend Appointment
Submit your application in person with all original documents and copies. Pay the €90 visa fee. Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) unless recorded within the last 59 months.1
5. Await Decision
Track your application status online. Standard processing takes 15 calendar days.3 Once decided, collect your passport or arrange courier delivery.
Fees
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Adult (12+ years) | €90 |
| Child (6-11 years) | €45 |
| Child (under 6) | Free |
| VFS Service Charge | ~€20-30 |
Fees are payable in EUR and are non-refundable regardless of the visa decision.1 Payment methods vary by application location.
What You Need to Prove
For a successful Germany Schengen visa application, demonstrate:3
Clear Travel Purpose: Specific, credible reason for visiting Germany with a realistic itinerary supported by accommodation and transport bookings.
Financial Capacity: Sufficient funds to cover your entire stay. Germany recommends minimum €45-50 per day plus accommodation and transport costs.
Strong Albanian Ties: Compelling evidence you will return to Albania, such as employment, property, family obligations, or ongoing studies.
Proper Insurance: Schengen-compliant travel medical insurance with €30,000 minimum coverage valid across all member states.
Processing Times
| Scenario | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Standard Processing | 15 calendar days |
| Peak Season (May-August) | Up to 30 days |
| Complex Cases | Up to 45 days |
Submit your application at least 15 days before travel, but no more than 6 months in advance.3 Allow extra time during summer months.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, the Schengen visa sticker will be placed in your passport. Verify:
- Validity period: Covers your planned travel dates
- Number of entries: Single, double, or multiple
- Days permitted: Maximum 90 within the 180-day validity
At German border control, officials may request:
- Return flight confirmation
- Hotel reservations
- Travel insurance policy
- Proof of sufficient funds
If Your Visa is Refused
If refused, you will receive written notification with specific reasons. Your options:
- Reapply: Submit a new application addressing the concerns raised. There is no waiting period.
- Lodge Appeal: File a remonstrance (Remonstration) within one month of the decision.
- Legal Action: In rare cases, pursue administrative court proceedings.
Document what caused the refusal and ensure your new application directly addresses those issues. Always disclose previous refusals in future applications.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show adequate funds or demonstrate irregular patterns such as recent large deposits.
How to avoid: Provide 6 months of bank statements showing stable balance and regular income. Germany expects approximately €45-50 per day minimum. Avoid suspicious deposits before applying.
Weak Ties to Albania
Unable to demonstrate compelling reasons to return to Albania after the visit.
How to avoid: Include employment letter showing permanent position, property ownership documents, family certificates, or proof of ongoing studies in Albania.
Incomplete or Non-Compliant Documents
Missing required documents, expired documents, or documents not meeting German specifications.
How to avoid: Follow the official checklist exactly. Ensure photos meet biometric standards. Have non-Albanian documents professionally translated to German.
Unclear Travel Purpose
Travel plans appear vague, unrealistic, or do not justify the visa duration requested.
How to avoid: Provide detailed day-by-day itinerary. Include hotel confirmations matching your stated plans. Explain specific reasons for visiting Germany.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in Germany or other Schengen countries.
How to avoid: Be completely honest about previous applications and refusals. Explain what has changed and provide evidence of improved circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Albanian citizens need a visa to visit Germany?
Yes, Albanian citizens require a Schengen visa to visit Germany for tourism, business, or family visits. The visa permits stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
How long does it take to get a Germany visa from Albania?
Standard processing takes 15 calendar days from application submission. During summer peak season, processing may take up to 30 days. Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date.
What is the Germany Schengen visa fee for Albanians in 2025?
The standard visa fee is €90 for adults. Children aged 6-11 pay €45, and children under 6 are exempt. VFS Global service charges apply separately if using their services.
Can I visit other countries with a Germany Schengen visa?
Yes, your Germany Schengen visa allows travel to all 29 Schengen member states including France, Italy, Spain, Austria, and others. Germany should be your main destination or first point of entry.
Where do I apply for a Germany visa in Albania?
Apply at the German Embassy in Tirana or through VFS Global Albania. Book your appointment through the embassy website. Appointments must be scheduled in advance and can fill up quickly.
What is the approval rate for Germany visas from Albania?
Germany approves approximately 80% of Schengen visa applications from Albanian citizens. Thorough documentation and demonstrating strong ties to Albania significantly improve approval chances.