Germany entry requirements for Vietnam passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed June 28, 2026·View sources
Visa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Vietnamese passport holders need a visa to enter Germany for tourism, business, or visiting family. The application process takes several weeks, so plan ahead.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen visa application Apply before travel | You need a Schengen visa before flying to Germany. Apply at the German embassy or consulate in Vietnam — processing takes at least 15 calendar days. Use the official portal to find your local consulate and book an appointment.Visa application info | Required |
| Valid passport Must cover entire stay | Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay in Germany. Schengen rules do not require 6 months beyond departure, but your airline may enforce it — check with them before you fly. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers at German airports check for a confirmed return or onward ticket. Have a printed or digital copy ready — they may ask to see it at the border. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or invitation letter | Carry a hotel reservation, hostel booking, or an invitation letter from your host in Germany. Officers rarely ask, but having it ready avoids delays. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | Have bank statements, a credit card, or cash showing you can cover your stay. The Schengen guideline is roughly €45 per day — keep a printed statement handy. | Recommended |
Apply early — slots fill fast
Appointment slots at the German embassy and consulate are limited. During peak travel seasons, you may need to wait 2–3 weeks just for an appointment. Book as soon as you decide your travel dates.
Schengen visa rules apply
Germany is part of the Schengen Area. With a German visa, you can visit 26 other European countries without additional visas. But you must enter Germany first or spend the most days there.
What happens at the border
1
Prepare your documents
Gather all required documents: valid passport, completed visa application form, passport photos, travel insurance, flight and hotel bookings, bank statements, and any supporting letters.
2
Submit your application
Apply at the German Embassy in Hanoi or the German Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. Book an appointment online; walk-ins are not accepted.
3
Attend the visa interview
Bring all original documents plus photocopies. The officer will ask about your travel plans, finances, and ties to Vietnam. Answer honestly and clearly.
4
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15–30 calendar days. During peak season (summer, holidays) it can take longer. Do not book non-refundable flights until you have the visa.
5
Collect your passport
You'll receive an email or SMS when your passport is ready. Collect it in person or have it couriered. Check the visa sticker for correct dates and spelling.
Download Germany Entry Checklist
PDF · Vietnam Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated June 28, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Schengen Tourist Visa (Single Entry)
Max stay90 days within 180-day period
ValidityUp to 90 days
Cost€80 (~$87 USD)
For one-time entry; must leave Schengen area after stay.
Schengen Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry)
Max stay90 days within 180-day period
ValidityUp to 5 years (based on history)
Cost€80 (~$87 USD)
Allows multiple entries; requires strong travel history.
National Long-Stay Visa (D Visa)
Max stayOver 90 days (e.g., work, study)
ValidityUp to 1 year
Cost€75 (~$82 USD)
For stays exceeding 90 days; requires specific purpose (e.g., employment, study).
work visa
EU Blue Card (Germany)
Up to 4 years, renewable
€140 (~$152 USD) application fee
For highly skilled workers with a job offer in Germany. Requires a university degree and minimum salary threshold. Allows family reunification.
Apply student visa
German Student Visa
Up to 2 years (renewable based on studies)
€75 (~$82 USD) application fee
For enrollment in a German university. Requires proof of admission and sufficient funds (€11,208/year in blocked account). Allows part-time work.
Apply investor visa
German Self-Employment Visa
Up to 3 years, renewable
€100 (~$109 USD) application fee
For entrepreneurs and freelancers. Requires a viable business plan and proof of economic interest in Germany. Must show sufficient funds.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Schengen Tourist Visa (Single Entry)Standard fee for adults; reduced for children under 12. | €80 (~$87 USD) |
| Schengen Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry)Same fee as single entry; validity depends on applicant's travel history. | €80 (~$87 USD) |
| Overstay Fine (per day)Penalty for overstaying visa-free or visa period. | €50 (~$54 USD) per day, max €500 (~$544 USD) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documentation20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Germany
Transit visa required
Vietnam passport holders need an airport transit visa for Germany unless they hold a valid visa or residence permit from a Schengen state, EU/EEA country, or certain other countries.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid Schengen visa or residence permit
- Holders of a valid visa or residence permit from EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, UK, USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, or certain other countries
Transit hubsFrankfurt Airport (FRA) · Munich Airport (MUC) · Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)
Health & vaccines for Germany
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, polio, influenza)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsiderTick-borne encephalitisConsider
Health risks
Tick-borne encephalitisModerate risk
Risk in forested areas, especially southern Germany; vaccination recommended for outdoor activities.
Lyme diseaseModerate risk
Transmitted by ticks in wooded areas; use repellent and check for ticks.
Seasonal influenzaLow risk
Common in winter months; vaccination advised.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Berlin
Landesamt für Einwanderung Berlin
Friedrich-Krause-Ufer 24, 13353 Berlin
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
For visa extensions and residence permits; appointments required.
Frankfurt
Ausländerbehörde Frankfurt am Main
Kleyerstraße 86, 60326 Frankfurt am Main
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
Handles visa-related issues; bring all original documents.
Practical information for VN travellers
Country basics
CapitalBerlin
LanguageGerman
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS license valid for up to 6 months.
Money
CurrencyEuro (EUR)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 0.88 EUR
Time zone
Local timeUTC+1
vs New York+6h (EST) / +6h (EDT)
vs Los Angeles+9h (PST) / +9h (PDT)
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,FType C, F — US plugs (Type A/B) do not fit. Bring a European adapter.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Safe to drink
Excellent tap water quality. Safe to drink everywhere.
Emergency numbers
Getting to Germany
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to Germany — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
Processing usually takes 15 to 30 calendar days. During busy periods (summer, Christmas, Tet) it can stretch to 6 weeks. Apply at least 8 weeks before your planned departure.
You fill out the application form online, but you must submit it in person at the German Embassy in Hanoi or the Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. There is no fully online visa for Vietnamese passport holders.
The Schengen visa fee is €80 for adults (about 2,100,000 VND) and €40 for children aged 6–12. Children under 6 are free. Fees are paid in cash or by bank transfer when you submit your application.
For stays over 90 days (e.g., study, work, family reunion), you need a national visa (D visa). Apply at the German embassy. The process is different and takes longer — start at least 3 months in advance.
Yes. A German Schengen visa allows you to travel freely within all 27 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. But you must enter Germany first or spend the most time there.
You will receive a letter explaining the reason. Common reasons: insufficient funds, weak ties to Vietnam, or incomplete documents. You can appeal within 30 days or reapply with stronger evidence.
Yes, immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel. Have a printed or digital copy of your return or onward ticket ready. A screenshot on your phone is usually fine.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on June 28, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.