Schengen, visas and travel rights, explained clearly
Facts, requirements and sources on visas, entry and travel rights. General information only, not legal advice.
Latest guides
Language & visa: which German do I need for which visa?
A1 is not the only requirement: each purpose of stay has a different level and a different proof. The purpose → level → proof matrix.
National visa: booking travel despite an unclear processing time
With a national visa (D) processing often takes months, and the visa start date is fixed only late. Why you should not book a fixed ticket in advance and how to stay plannable.
Vocational training in Germany: visa (Section 16a) - requirements, process and costs
Visa for vocational training in Germany: requirements (Section 16a AufenthG), training contract, language B1/B2, documents, costs and process - facts and sources.
Passport damaged or only briefly valid - what counts for the visa and entry
Passport damaged, got wet or only briefly valid? When the document still suffices for the Schengen visa and entry, and when you have to replace it.