By Olamilekan Abayomi
Germany is speeding up visa processing for Nigerians, aiming to reduce the waiting time to just three weeks for all categories of visas. The Consul-General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Lagos, Mr. Daniel Krulls, announced this initiative, highlighting the expansion of office capacity, doubling of visa counters, and exploration of external service providers for specific visa categories.
To achieve this goal, the Consulate will also set up a system for verifying academic diplomas, a process previously piloted in New Delhi, India, which successfully accelerated study visa decisions. This move is expected to boost bilateral ties, academic exchanges, and economic collaboration between Germany and Nigeria.
The Consulate currently processes over 10,000 visa applications annually and expects to scale up with these reforms. The German government welcomes Nigerians for various purposes, including tourism, business, education, and employment.
For Nigerians planning to visit Germany, it’s essential to apply for the correct visa type, as picking the wrong one could lead to rejection. The required documents include a valid passport, biometric photos, travel health insurance, and proof of financial means. The visa application process involves filling out the online VIDEX form, booking an appointment via VFS Global, and submitting documents in person.
The processing time for a German visa from Nigeria typically takes 14 days, but it can be extended depending on the number of applicants. It’s recommended to apply at least three months before the planned trip to account for any delays. The visa fee is €80, payable in Nigerian Naira, and additional service fees may apply.
Germany offers various visa types, including Schengen Visa (Type C) for short stays, National Visa (Type D) for long stays, Student Visa, and Job Seeker Visa. Each visa type has specific requirements and validity periods. With a valid Schengen visa, Nigerians can access 26 European countries without needing additional visas.
