Visas
Information and practical advice about visas across Europe.
Which nationalities get the most EU Blue Cards and where do they go?
The EU hands out thousands of Blue Cards to highly-skilled third country nationals each year, according to the latest figures. But which nationalities receive the most and which EU country gives out the most?
EU announces plan to extend 90-day rule for certain non-EU workers
The European Commission has announced it will look into allowing certain non-EU professionals to stay in the EU beyond the current 90/180-day rule, as part of a future overhaul of its visa system. It also asked EU countries to make visa access "simpler and faster" for skilled workers.
EU announces new push to overhaul visa system and deportations policy
The European Union on Thursday laid out plans to overhaul its visa system and step up deportations as part of a five-year migration strategy that cements a hardening line on the hot-button issue.
'Discriminatory': How German visa applicants from poorer countries face longer waits
A new study has revealed stark inequalities in how long people from different countries must wait for visa appointments at German embassies and consulates – a problem with potentially serious consequences for individuals and for Germany itself.
EU ministers agree new rules around suspending visa-free travel
European affairs ministers gave the go ahead this week to new rules that will make it easier to suspend the right to visa-free travel for non-EU countries under certain circumstances.
CHECKLIST: The most important paperwork you need to settle in Germany
There's a fair amount of paperwork involved with moving to Germany, and it can be hard to know where to start. We look at the first documents you'll need to apply for, or be aware of, when you arrive here.
COMPARE: Which country in Europe is the easiest to retire to?
Finishing work and heading off to a glorious new life as a retiree in Europe is the dream for many, but just how easy is it to do in reality? We compare the rules in 9 countries in Europe.
How does divorce affect your residence rights in Germany?
If you're dealing with a divorce, the last thing you need is the added stress of figuring out how to legally remain in the country that you've made home. Here's what to know about how divorce can affect your ability to stay in Germany.
How to write the visa invitation letter in Germany for family and friends to visit
Visitors entering Germany from outside the Schengen zone might have to show documents at the border. Here's what to keep in mind when writing a visa invitation letter for people to visit you from abroad.
Europe to draw up new visa strategy to bring in skilled non-EU workers
The European Commission is preparing a new visa strategy to attract "top talent from abroad that is needed to fill skills and labour shortages in the EU and drive research and innovation."
What rights do I have if I'm married to a German citizen?
If you’re a non-EU foreigner married to a German citizen, some of the bureaucracy that comes with living in Germany is just a little bit easier than it would be otherwise.
What to do if you lose your residence permit in Germany
Third-country nationals with the right to live and work in Germany are generally issued a residence permit in their passport or in the form of an ID card. But what do you if you happen to lose this vital document - or if it gets stolen? Here's a step-by-step guide.
'Cascade scheme': Who can benefit from longer term Schengen visas?
Certain non-EU nationals, including Indian citizens, can benefit from a new type of Schengen visa, which rewards travellers with an established travel history, and allows multiple entries to the EU/Schengen area over a long period of time.
EXPLAINED: Germany to end free appeals for rejected visa applicants
If your visa to visit or move to Germany is rejected after the start of July 2025, you will no longer be able to use a free government review process to challenge it. Here's what you need to know about the change.
Which European countries now offer a 'digital nomad' visa?
With the world of work rapidly changing, digital nomad visas are now in high demand as a way to experience life in another country while continuing to work remotely. Here are the European countries that you can obtain one for, and what’s involved.
Visa rejections by Germany cost Indian applicants €1.3 million last year
A recent report found that Indians paid over €14 million in fees for rejected Schengen visa applications in 2024, and that Germany was among the countries that issued the most rejections.
Why does Germany issue by far the most EU Blue Cards to skilled workers?
The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly skilled people from outside the EU. Why does Germany issue by far the most compared to other EU states?
'It's still on paper!': Why German bureaucracy is so infuriating
From the long waits to the lack of a tracking tool for citizenship applications, foreign residents in Germany have spoken out about their biggest problems with German bureaucracy.
'Cash for visas': Why the Munich immigration office is facing corruption allegations
Several employees of Munich immigration office are suspected of handing out German residence and work permits in exchange for bribes. Here's what to know about the unfolding scandal.
What you need to earn to get an EU Blue Card in Germany in 2025
New salary requirements to get an EU Blue Card came into force in Germany at the start of this year. Here's what you need to know.
Q&A: What is Germany's new online visa portal and how can I use it?
Germany has just launched a digital portal that allows foreigners to apply for entry visas from anywhere in the world. Here's what you need to know about the new online tool.
'My son's shock rejection for a German Schengen Visa - and how I challenged it'
Germany's bureaucracy can be notoriously inflexible - but what happens when a close family member is unexpectedly rejected for a visa? We spoke to a foreign worker about his recent Schengen visa ordeal and how he overcame it.
How many skilled workers have applied for Germany's 'opportunity card' visa?
Germany introduced the Chancenkarte or 'opportunity card' visa earlier this year in a bid to increase skilled worker immigration from outside the EU. How popular is it so far?