LeapScholar

How much does the visa cost and how much should I spend on the visa in Germany?

07 Sept 2026 · Answered by Geetha Muthu · 2 min read
Quick Answer verified

A German Schengen visa costs 90 euros, while a long-term national visa costs 75 euros, with reduced fees for children. Once you add service provider charges, travel insurance, and document preparation, your total spending typically lands between 120 and 200 euros or more per person.

Geetha Muthu
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Your official German visa fee depends on whether you need a short-stay Schengen visa or a long-stay national visa. Your real total spend will be higher once you add the mandatory extras most applicants overlook.

Official Visa Fees

Visa TypeStandard Adult FeeReduced / Child Fee
Schengen Visa (up to 90 days)€90€45 (ages 6-11), free under 6
National Visa (long-term, Category D)€75€37.50 (minors under 18)

Hidden and Extra Costs

  • External service provider fees (VFS Global, TLScontact): typically €15 to €40.
  • Travel health insurance, mandatory for Schengen visas: €30 to €80+ depending on trip duration.
  • Document preparation, including biometric photos, translations, and courier fees: €10 to €30.
  • Citizens of certain countries with visa facilitation agreements may qualify for a reduced €35 Schengen fee.
  • Total realistic spend per person: €120 to €200 or more once all extras are included.

My Advice

Budget closer to 200 euros rather than the bare 75 or 90 euro government fee, since service provider charges and mandatory insurance almost always apply. Book your visa appointment through the official consulate channel first to confirm exact current costs, and ask a Leap counsellor to help you assemble the full document checklist so nothing delays your appointment.

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