Germany Schengen Visa
Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) · For Thailand citizens
Planning a trip to Germany as a Thai citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Schengen Visa application: required documents, current fees of €90, processing times of 15 calendar days, and strategies to improve your chances. The visa grants access to all 29 Schengen states for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Germany Schengen Visa for Thai Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Thailand citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must meet specific validity requirements for Schengen visa applications
Complete the official Schengen visa application form
Recent biometric photographs meeting Schengen specifications
Comprehensive travel insurance valid throughout the Schengen area
Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Germany and the Schengen area
Documentation proving your current employment and income in Thailand
Evidence of where you will stay during your visit to Germany
Round-trip flight reservation showing entry and exit from Schengen area
Personal letter explaining the purpose and details of your trip
Fingerprints and photograph collected at VFS Global visa application centre
Application Process
All applications must be submitted through VFS Global, the official visa application partner for the German Embassy in Thailand.1 Follow these steps:
1. Prepare Your Application
Gather all required documents including your completed application form, passport, photographs, travel insurance, financial proof, and supporting documents.1 Ensure all documents meet the specified requirements.
2. Book VFS Global Appointment
Schedule an appointment online at the VFS Global website.1 Appointments can be booked up to 180 days before your planned travel date. You must apply at least 15 days before your intended departure.
3. Attend Appointment
Visit the VFS Global centre in Bangkok with your passport and all supporting documents.1 Your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) will be collected. Pay the visa fee (€90) and VFS service charges at the centre.
4. Wait for Decision
Standard processing takes 15 calendar days.2 Track your application status on the VFS Global website. Collect your passport from VFS Global or arrange courier delivery once processing is complete.
Fees
| Category | Visa Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults (12 years and older) | €90 |
| Children (6-11 years) | €45 |
| Children (under 6 years) | Free |
VFS Global charges an additional service fee for processing your application.1 Payment can be made by cash, credit/debit card, or online during appointment booking. Optional premium services are available for additional fees.
What You Need to Prove
To be granted a Schengen visa for Germany, you must demonstrate:23
- Genuine purpose for visiting Germany for tourism, family visit, or business
- Sufficient funds to cover accommodation, travel, and daily expenses
- Valid travel insurance covering €30,000 for medical emergencies across all Schengen states
- Clear itinerary with confirmed accommodation and travel plans
- Strong ties to Thailand proving you will return after your visit
Processing Times
Current processing time for Schengen visa applications at the German Embassy in Bangkok is 15 calendar days.1 Processing may take longer if:
- Additional documents are requested
- Your application requires further verification
- You apply during peak travel season
- Security or background checks are required
In exceptional cases, processing may extend to 45-60 days.2 Apply well in advance of your planned travel date. Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa is granted.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, the Schengen visa sticker will be placed in your passport. Check the following details carefully:
- Validity dates: When you can enter and must exit the Schengen area
- Duration of stay: Maximum days permitted (up to 90)
- Number of entries: Single, double, or multiple entry
- Territory: Should state “ETATS SCHENGEN” for all Schengen countries
At the German border, you may be asked to show your return ticket, accommodation proof, travel insurance, and evidence of sufficient funds.
If Your Visa is Refused
If your application is refused, you will receive written notification explaining the reasons.2 Your options include:
- File an objection (Remonstration) against the decision within one month
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the specific issues raised
- Seek legal advice for complex cases or to pursue further appeals
The refusal letter will specify which grounds applied to your case. A refusal does not permanently bar you from future applications. Address the concerns raised and reapply when ready.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not demonstrate enough funds to cover the trip, or show suspicious patterns like large unexplained deposits.
How to avoid: Show 3 months of statements with consistent balance. Demonstrate at least €45-60 per day of stay. Avoid deposits just before applying.
Weak Ties to Thailand
Unable to convince that you have strong reasons to return to Thailand after the visit.
How to avoid: Provide employment letter with tenure details, property documents, family certificates, or business ownership evidence.
Incomplete or Inconsistent Documents
Application contains missing documents, contradictory information, or documents that do not match each other.
How to avoid: Double-check all documents are included. Ensure salary in employment letter matches bank statement credits. Provide translations for non-English documents.
Unclear Purpose of Visit
Application does not clearly explain why you want to visit Germany or the itinerary seems unrealistic.
How to avoid: Write a clear motivation letter. Provide detailed day-by-day itinerary. Show hotel bookings and planned activities.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in the Schengen area or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about past issues. Explain circumstances and show how your situation has changed.
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 your total time in all Schengen countries combined, not just Germany.
Can I visit other European countries with a Germany Schengen visa?
Yes, a Schengen visa issued by Germany grants you access to all 29 Schengen member states. You can travel freely within the Schengen area during your visa validity period.
How long does Germany visa processing take for Thai citizens?
Standard processing takes 15 calendar days from your application submission. In some cases, processing may extend to 45-60 days if additional checks are required.
What is the Germany Schengen visa fee for Thai citizens in 2025?
The visa fee is €90 for adults (12 years and older) and €45 for children aged 6-11. Children under 6 are exempt from the fee. VFS Global service charges apply separately.
Do I need to book flights before applying?
You need to show a flight itinerary, but it does not need to be a confirmed booking. Refundable reservations are accepted and recommended until your visa is approved.
Can I extend my Schengen visa while in Germany?
Schengen visas are generally not extendable except in exceptional circumstances such as force majeure or humanitarian reasons. Plan your trip within the 90-day limit.
What if Germany is not my main destination?
Apply at the embassy of the country where you will spend the most time. If equal time in multiple countries, apply at the embassy of your first entry point into Schengen.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation or file an objection (Remonstration) against the decision.