All German visas now start online in the Consular Services Portal
Effective date: 1 January 2025 · Source: Federal Foreign Office ↗
Since 1 January 2025 national (D) visa applications are submitted digitally at all 167 German visa sections. You fill in forms and upload documents online, then attend one short biometrics appointment. Processing has dropped to roughly 4–6 weeks for many categories.
What changed
The old system of e-mailing or queuing for embassy appointments is being replaced by the central portal at digital.diplo.de, covering 28 national visa categories including work, Opportunity Card, student and family visas.
Who is affected
- Everyone applying for a German national visa from abroad
What to do
Create your account at digital.diplo.de, select your visa type and country of residence, and follow the checklist. Keep original documents for the in-person biometrics appointment.
Affected guides
Last verified: 21 July 2026