Diplomatic missions of Germany in Nigeria have advised visa applicants to follow the procedures and avoid sending documents by email to secure appointments to submit their applications.
The missions issued the advisory on Wednesday following confusion over how applications should begin. Applicants are advised to first identify the relevant visa category based on the purpose and length of stay.
A Schengen visa generally covers short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, including tourism and family visits. National visas are required for stays exceeding 90 days, including employment, study, vocational training and certain family-reunification cases.
Applicants must also identify the German mission responsible for their application before proceeding. The missions advised applicants to use the online appointment system for the relevant visa category and follow the instructions provided.
For some long-stay visa categories, applicants can begin through Germany’s Consular Services Portal. However, an online application does not eliminate the need for an in-person appointment where biometrics, original documents and other checks are required.
The missions also warned applicants against paying agents or third parties for appointments. “You do not need to pay an agent just to book a visa appointment. The official appointment booking is free,” the missions said. Applicants were urged to book appointments under the correct visa category and rely on official German government information.
