If Germany is your main destination, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen visa. As mentioned earlier, the German Embassy in Dhaka no longer directly handles short-term Schengen visa applications. Instead, VFS Global has been appointed to process these applications. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to get a German tourist visa from Bangladesh.

Step 1: Gather All Required Documents

Before applying for the visa, make sure you have all the necessary documents. Here’s a checklist of the key requirements:

1. Completed Schengen Visa Application Form – Fully filled out and signed.
2. Signed Declaration of Consent – This is also part of the application process.
3. Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area. Don’t forget to include any previous passports.
4. Biometric Passport-sized Photo – One recent photograph (35x45mm) as per Schengen visa requirements.
5. Overseas Travel Medical Insurance – Must cover a minimum of €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation.
6. Proof of Accommodation – Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Germany.
7. Flight Reservation or Travel Itinerary – A round-trip flight reservation or travel plan.
8. Personal Cover Letter – Explaining the purpose of your visit.
9. Tour Plan – Detailed itinerary outlining your travel in Germany.
10. Original Personal Bank Statements – At least the last six months to prove your financial means.

Step 2: Book an Appointment

Once you have all your documents in order, the next step is to book an appointment. You can do this via the VFS Global website. Choose a time slot that is convenient for you to submit your documents.

Step 3: Visit the Visa Application Center for Document Submission and Biometric Collection

On the scheduled day, visit your nearest VFS center with all the required documents. A VFS employee will:

• Verify the documents.
• Charge a service fee of €15.00 for each visa application.
• Collect your biometric data, including fingerprints and scanning of your biometric passport photo.

Step 4: VFS Global Forwards Your Application to the German Embassy

After your documents and biometrics are submitted, VFS Global will forward your application to the German Embassy for processing. While VFS handles the administrative side, the ultimate decision regarding your visa will be made by the German Embassy.

Step 5: Collect Your Passport

Once the German Embassy makes a decision on your application, you will be notified to collect your passport from the VFS Visa Application Center. The passport will be returned in a sealed envelope, whether your visa is approved or denied.

• If the visa is granted, verify the following details on your visa:
  • Passport Number
  • Number of Entries
  • Visa Validity Period
  • Conditions on the Visa

If you notice any discrepancies, inform the VFS officer immediately for corrections.