Information on Philipines Visas applications, entry to Germany
Germany Visa and Residence Information
Important Update: Abolition of the Remonstration Procedure (Effective 1 July 2025)
Starting 1 July 2025, the remonstration procedure—a previously voluntary process for contesting visa rejections—will be completely discontinued worldwide. This change aims to improve the overall efficiency of the visa system, allowing more applications to be processed and significantly reducing waiting times.
If your visa application is rejected on or after 1 July 2025, do not submit a remonstration request, as these will no longer be accepted or processed by the German Embassy.
Instead, if you wish to challenge a decision, you must file a formal legal appeal with the Administrative Court in Berlin (Verwaltungsgericht Berlin). Please note:
- Legal appeals must be filed in German.
- Court proceedings involve legal fees and may take time.
Tip: To avoid delays or rejections, ensure that your visa application is complete and all required documents are submitted. If the visa office asks for additional documents, submit them as soon as possible.
Reapplication Option: If your visa is denied, you can submit a new application at any time.
Where and How to Apply
You can only apply for a German visa through the German Embassy in Manila if you are a legal resident of:
- The Philippines
- Palau
- Papua New Guinea
- Micronesia
- Marshall Islands
To check whether you need a visa to enter Germany based on your nationality, visit the official German visa portal.
Visa Types Based on Duration of Stay
- Schengen Visa (Short Stay – up to 90 days):
- For tourism, business, or short visits.
- National Visa (Long Stay – over 90 days):
- For family reunification, employment, study, etc.
Current Appointment Waiting Times
(These may vary, so check the embassy website for updates):
- Family reunification or marriage: up to 3 months
- Nursing professionals: up to 1 month
- Other visa categories: up to 1 month
Occasionally, earlier appointment slots become available. It is advisable to regularly check the embassy website for updates.
Where to Submit Your Application
- Schengen Visas (Short Stays):
- In the Philippines: Submit at VFS Global in Manila or Cebu
- In Papua New Guinea: Submit at VFS Global in Port Moresby
- All Other Visa Categories (e.g., with Fast-Track Processing):
Submit directly at the German Embassy in Manila
Embassy Contact & Operating Hours
- Visa applications are by appointment only.
- Appointment links are available on the embassy’s website under each visa category.
- For detailed visa guidance, carefully read the official information provided online before reaching out with general questions.
Contact Information:
- Phone: (0063 2) 8702 3001
- Phone hours: Monday to Thursday, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Email: Preferred method for visa inquiries
Key Takeaways
- Prepare and organize all documents before applying.
- Refrain from using outdated procedures like remonstration after 1 July 2025.
- Take advantage of fast-track options when available.
- Use the embassy’s online resources to stay updated and informed.
For more details, always refer to the official website of the German Embassy in your area.
