Germany Schengen Visa
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) · For Indonesia citizens
Planning a trip to Germany as an Indonesian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Schengen Visa application: required documents, current fee of €90, processing time of 2 weeks, and strategies to improve your chances. The Schengen Visa grants access to all 29 Schengen states across Europe.
Germany Schengen Visa for Indonesian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Indonesia citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your current passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the visa expiry date
Complete the online application form via the VIDEX platform and print it out
Recent biometric passport photo meeting Schengen requirements
Travel medical insurance valid for all Schengen countries
Round-trip flight reservation showing entry and exit from the Schengen area
Evidence of where you will stay during your visit
Evidence showing sufficient funds to cover your stay in Germany
Documentation proving your employment status in Indonesia
A letter explaining the purpose of your travel and detailed itinerary
Original consent form allowing the embassy to contact you via email
Application Process
All applications must be submitted in person at VFS Global or the German Embassy in Jakarta.1 The process involves these main steps:
1. Complete VIDEX Application Form
Fill out the visa application form online via the VIDEX platform. Print the completed form and sign it. The form is available in German, English, or Indonesian.1
2. Gather Required Documents
Prepare all necessary documents including passport photos, travel insurance, flight itinerary, accommodation proof, bank statements, and employment evidence.13
3. Book Appointment
Schedule an appointment at VFS Global Indonesia or the German Embassy in Jakarta. Applications can be submitted up to 6 months before your intended travel date.3 Book early, especially during peak season.
4. Submit Application and Biometrics
Attend your appointment with all documents. You will submit your application, pay the visa fee, and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).2
5. Wait for Decision
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days.2 You will be notified when a decision is made and can collect your passport from the VFS center.
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Schengen Visa (Adult) | €90 |
| Schengen Visa (Child 6-11) | €45 |
| Schengen Visa (Child under 6) | Free |
VFS Global charges an additional service fee for processing.3 Optional services like SMS updates and courier delivery cost extra. All fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
What You Need to Prove
To obtain a Schengen Visa, you must demonstrate:12
- Genuine travel purpose: Clear intention to visit Germany for tourism and return to Indonesia afterward
- Sufficient funds: Financial means to cover accommodation, travel, and daily expenses (approximately €100-150 per day)
- Valid travel insurance: Medical coverage of at least €30,000 in all Schengen countries
- Strong ties to home country: Employment, property, family, or other commitments in Indonesia
Schengen Area Access
Your Germany Schengen Visa grants access to all 29 Schengen member states:2
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
You can travel freely between these countries during your 90-day stay.
Processing Times
The standard processing time is 15 calendar days (approximately 2 weeks).1
Processing may take longer if:
- Your application requires additional verification
- Peak travel season increases application volume
- Additional documents are requested
- You need to attend an interview
Apply at least 1-3 months before your planned trip to ensure timely processing.2
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. Check the validity dates carefully. At the German border, you may be asked to show:
- Return or onward travel arrangements
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of funds
- Travel insurance certificate
- Details of your travel plans
If Your Visa is Refused
If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the specific reasons. You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues raised
- Request administrative review if you believe there was a procedural error
- Seek professional advice for complex cases
A refusal does not automatically prevent future applications, but you must address the concerns raised in subsequent applications.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show enough funds or demonstrate suspicious patterns such as large unexplained deposits close to the application date.
How to avoid: Show 3-6 months of statements with consistent balance and regular income. Avoid large deposits in the weeks before applying. Demonstrate funds of approximately €100-150 per day of planned stay.
Weak Ties to Home Country
Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to Indonesia after the visit, such as stable employment, property ownership, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Include employment letter showing tenure of 1+ years, property documents if you own any, evidence of family dependents, or ongoing business commitments.
Incomplete or Inconsistent Documentation
Application contains missing documents, contradictory information, or unexplained gaps. Information does not match across different documents.
How to avoid: Double-check all dates and details match across documents. Provide explanation letters for any gaps. Ensure salary in employment letter matches bank statement credits.
Inadequate Travel Insurance
Travel insurance does not meet the minimum €30,000 coverage requirement, is not valid for all Schengen countries, or does not cover the entire stay.
How to avoid: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance with at least €30,000 medical coverage valid in all Schengen states. Ensure coverage dates extend slightly beyond your planned trip.
Unconvincing Travel Purpose
The stated purpose of visit seems implausible, or the itinerary does not match the visa duration or applicant's profile.
How to avoid: Provide a clear, detailed, and realistic itinerary in your cover letter. If visiting family or friends, include invitation letters with their German residence status.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Germany on a Schengen Visa?
The Schengen Visa allows you to stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to the entire Schengen area, not just Germany. You must leave before exceeding 90 days to avoid overstay penalties.
Can I visit other European countries with a Germany Schengen Visa?
Yes, the Schengen Visa grants access to all 29 Schengen member states including France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, and others. You can travel freely between these countries during your stay.
How long does Germany visa processing take from Indonesia?
Standard processing takes approximately 15 calendar days (2 weeks). During peak travel seasons like summer, processing may take longer. Apply 1-3 months before your planned trip.
What is the Germany Schengen Visa fee for Indonesians in 2025?
The standard fee is €90 for adults and €45 for children aged 6-11. Children under 6 are exempt from the fee. An additional VFS Global service fee applies if you submit through VFS.
Do I need to book flights before applying?
You need to show a flight itinerary, but you are not required to book confirmed tickets. A reservation or hold is sufficient. The embassy advises against booking non-refundable travel until your visa is approved.
Where do I apply for a Germany Schengen Visa in Indonesia?
You can apply through VFS Global centers in Indonesia or directly at the German Embassy in Jakarta. VFS Global is recommended for faster appointment availability. An appointment must be booked in advance.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues, or request an administrative review if you believe there was an error. There is no automatic appeal right.
How much money do I need in my bank account?
There is no fixed amount, but you should demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your entire stay. A general guideline is €100-150 per day. More important is showing stable income and no suspicious recent deposits.