UK Visa from Germany Fees and Requirements 2024This comprehensive guide provides the latest entry requirements and visa fees for German citizens and residents. Since 1 January 2021, German nationals require a visa for work, study, or long-term stays in the UK, while short visits remain visa-free. For non-EU nationals living in Germany, like Indians and Pakistanis, a visa is necessary for any UK trip. UK visa fees from Germany is €138 for a six-month visit. The cost of student and spouse visa are €589 and €2,218, respectively. The UK visa fees from Germany is €864 for skilled worker visa application.
Table of Contents
1. Overview: Emigrate to UK from Germany
Visa Requirements for German Citizens
- Tourism, Business Meetings, Academic Conferences
- German citizens can stay in the UK for up to six months without a visa for tourism and short business meetings.
- Work, Study, Settlement
- Germans require specific visas for working, studying, or settling in the UK.
- Business Travel (Extended Activities)
- Depending on the nature of activities, Germans may require a UK visa for extended business travel.
UK Visa Fees for German Citizens (2024)
- Tourist Visa: €138 (6 months)
- Student Visa: €589
- Skilled Worker Visa: €864 (up to 3 years), €1,707 (over 3 years)
- Spouse Visa: €2,218
UK Visa Processing Time from Germany (2024)
- Non-Settlement Visas
- Standard Processing: 10-15 working days (2-3 weeks)
- Priority Service: 5-7 working days, Extra Cost: €601
- Extended processing up to 12 weeks may occur for non-settlement visas due to various factors such as document verification or administrative delays.
- Settlement Visas
- Standard Processing: Up to 12 weeks
- Priority Service for German Passport Holders and Residents: 6 weeks, Extra Cost: €601
- Super-Priority Service: Next working day, Service Fee: €1,202
UK Visa from Germany for Non-EU Citizens
- UK Visa from Germany for Indian Passport Holder:
- Indian nationals in Germany need a UK visa for visiting, working, studying, and family settlement.
- UK Visa from Germany for Pakistani Passport Holders:
- Similar requirements apply to Pakistani nationals in Germany. Pakistanis residing in Germany must obtain a UK visa for visit, work, study, and family settlement.
UK Visit Visa for Pakistani and Indian Nationals in Germany
- Purpose:
- For short holidays or visits to the UK from Germany.
- Processing Time:
- Typically 10-15 working days for non-settlement visas, including visit visas.
- Priority Services:
- Available for faster processing in Germany.
- Application Submission:
- Biometric submissions usually occur at TLS application centers in German cities.
- UK Visa Application Centre Germany
- Berlin
- Chausseestraße 18/18a, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Düsseldorf
- TLScontact Deutschland GmbH, Bismarckstraße 101, 40210 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Munich
- Altheimer Eck 11, 1st floor, 80331 München, Germany
- Berlin
Apply for UK Visa!
Get expert guidance for all types of UK Visa and Immigration applications, reapplications, refusals, and appeals. ✅ Navigate your journey with confidence!
Enquiry Form
What Happens Next?
Our multilingual, qualified London-based immigration specialists will get back to you, usually within 2-3 working days. If you have not attached any documents, the UK-based law firm may ask for relevant case-specific documents such as refusal letters, deportation orders, application forms, etc. After reviewing the documents and information, the legal advisor may suggest a course of action and quote the fees for processing the application.
Have a Wonderful Day
2. UK Visit Visa from Germany 2024
German citizens, as non-visa nationals, typically do not need a visa for short stays up to six months in the UK. However, non-EU nationals residing in Germany are required to obtain a visa for such visits. According to Paragraph V 1.3 of Appendix V of the Immigration Rules, there are specific situations where German citizens must apply for a UK visa:
- Intentions to marry or enter into a civil partnership in the UK, or to announce such plans.
- Planning a stay in the UK for more than six months.
For the year ending 2022, out of 322 German UK visitor visa applications, 311 were approved, leading to an 89.39% approval rate and a 5.79% refusal rate.
Standard Visitor Visa UK from Germany
The standard visitor visa is for tourism, family visits, business meetings, short-term studies, and other allowed activities. Germans and EU residents in Germany typically don’t need a standard visa to visit the UK. However, non-EU residents, such as Indian or Pakistani passport holders, must apply for a standard visa to visit the UK.
Essential Criteria: UK Visit Visa from Germany
To secure a UK Visit Visa from Germany, applicants must satisfy several criteria:
- Purpose of Visit:
- Clearly state the reason for the visit (tourism, business, or visiting family).
- Financial Means:
- Provide proof of financial stability to support the stay in the UK.
- Accommodation Arrangements:
- Evidence of where the applicant will stay in the UK.
- Onward or Return Travel:
- Proof of onward or return travel to ensure the applicant intends to leave the UK after the visit.
UK Visit Visa Fee from Germany
As of 2023, UK visa fees from Germany are:
- 6-month visa: €138
- 2-year visa: €481
- 5-year visa: €927
- 10-year visa: €1,157
All these visas have a maximum stay limit of 180 days per visit. The standard processing time for a visit visa from Germany is usually three weeks. German citizens and residents in Germany can fast track the decision time within one week by purchasing the priority service for €601.
UK Tourist Visa from Germany
German nationals applying for a UK tourist visa need to:
- Fill out an online application form.
- Provide specific documents, including proof of intent to return to Germany, evidence of financial stability, and a detailed travel itinerary.
- Pay the visa fee of €138 and submit biometric information at a designated visa application center.
Necessary Documentation for German Applicants:
- Proof of Returning to Germany:
- A letter from your employer or educational institution in Germany, confirming your commitments after your visit to the UK.
- Financial Stability Evidence:
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds for the duration of your stay in the UK.
- Detailed Travel Plans:
- Include confirmed bookings for accommodations and travel arrangements in the UK.
Snapshot: Other UK Visitor Visas from Germany
- Marriage Visitor Visa:
- For German citizens to get married or register a civil partnership in the UK. Duration: Up to 180 days.
- Marriage Visitor Visa Fee: €138
- Private Medical Treatment Visa:
- For Germans to get private medical treatment in the UK lasting 6-11 months. Note: Attendants must apply separately.
- Private Medical Treatment Visa Fee: €240
- Visiting Academics:
- For German academic professionals engaging in research or educational exchanges for up to 12 months. Fee: €240
- Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE):
- For German professionals to perform short-term paid tasks like lecturing or assessing, available for up to 30 days.
- PPE Visa Fee: €138
- Parent of Child Student Visa:
- For German parents of children in fee-paying day schools in the UK. Duration: 12 months.
- Parent of Child Student Visa Fee: €766
3. Student Visa UK from Germany 2024
The UK Student Visa permits German citizens to pursue a range of educational opportunities in the UK, from higher education to Student Union roles. In the year ending September 2022, 4,343 out of 4,312 German applications were approved, showing a 97.58% success rate.
UK Student Visa Fees from Germany
- Standard Application Fee:
- €589
- Processing Time:
- Approximately 3 weeks
- Expedited Service:
- Additional cost of €601 for faster processing
In addition to the visa fee, students from Germany must pay the annual Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which amounts to £776.
Short-term English Language Visa
- 6-11 Months Course: €240
- 6-Month Course: €138
Work Rights for Students from Germany
- Degree-Level Programs:
- Up to 20 hours of work per week during term periods
- Full-time work during vacation breaks
- Sub-Degree Level Courses:
- Maximum of 10 hours of work per week
- Post-Study Work Opportunities
- 2-Year Post-Study Work Visa: Available for German graduates
- 3-Year Post-Study Work Visa: Available for PhD holders
4. UK Visas for German Citizens: Family Route
The UK Family Visa under Appendix FM allows German citizens to join family members who are either settled in the UK or are British citizens. Categories range from spouse visas to adult dependent relatives and parent of a British child visas. In the year ending September 2022, the success rate for German applicants stood at 84.44%, with 76 approvals out of 90 applications.
Spouse or Partner Visa UK for German Citizens
- Eligibility:
- German nationals must meet the requirements of Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules, which include proving a genuine relationship, financial security, adequate housing, and English language proficiency.
- Validity & Extensions:
- The spouse visa is initially granted for 33 months and can be extended after 30 months. After five years, applicants are eligible for Set (M) Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
- Cost:
- The standard fee is €2,218, with an additional €601 for expedited processing if chosen.
Other Family Visas
- Fiancé(e) Visa:
- For Germans intending to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK. Valid for 6 months.
- Fiancé(e) Visa UK from Germany Fee: €2,218
- Parent of a British Child Visa:
- For Germans who are the sole caregivers of a British child.
- Parent of a British Child Visa Fee: €2,218
- Adult Dependent Relative Visa:
- For Germans requiring long-term care from a UK-based relative.
- Adult Dependent Relative Visa Fee: €3,906
- Returning Residents Visa:
- For Germans who have previously been settled in the UK and wish to return. Fee: €766
5. UK Work Visa for German Citizens
Can I work in the UK with a German Passport after Brexit?
After Brexit, German citizens need a work permit to work and do business in the UK. Germans often choose the Skilled Worker visa when seeking employment in the UK. Other options include the Innovator, Startup, Global Business Mobility, and Health and Care Worker visas.
According to data for the year ending September 2022, 4,564 Germans applied for a UK work visa. Out of the 4,820 processed applications, 4,471 were granted, reflecting a high success rate of 96.09%. On the other hand, 109 applications were rejected, yielding a refusal rate of 2.34%.
Skilled Worker & Health and Care Worker Visa
German citizens looking to work in the UK in skilled occupations have specific visa options available to them. The Skilled Worker Visa and the Health and Care Worker Visa are designed for Germans sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor and offer a pathway to permanent settlement in the UK.
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Purpose: For Germans in skilled roles with a licensed Home Office sponsor. Offers a route to permanent UK settlement.
- Skilled Worker UK Visa Cost from Germany: €864 (up to 3 years), €1,707 (over 3 years)
- Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation) Visa
- Purpose: For Germans in specific shortage occupations.
- Fees: €662 (up to 3 years), €1,303 (over 3 years)
- Health and Care Worker Visa
- Purpose: For German health professionals like doctors, nurses, or allied health professionals, sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor. Leads to permanent UK settlement.
- Health and Care Worker UK Visa from Germany Fees: €341 (up to 3 years), €662 (over 3 years)
Global Business Mobility Visa UK
An overview of the UK work visas under the Global Business Mobility category for German citizens, including their fees for 2024.
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visa
- Purpose: Ideal for senior managers or specialists from Germany transferring to a UK branch.
- Fees: €864 (up to three years), €1,707 (longer than three years)
- Graduate Trainee Visa
- Purpose: For German individuals in graduate training programs leading to specialist roles in the UK.
- Fees: €358
- UK Expansion Worker Visa
- Purpose: For German specialists or senior personnel looking to expand a business into the UK.
- Fees: €358
- Service Supplier Visa
- Purpose: For German professionals providing services under UK trade agreements.
- Fees: €358
- Secondment Worker Visa
- Purpose: Specifically for Germans seconded to the UK for significant contracts or investments.
- Fees: €358
Quick Guide to Other Work and Business Visas
Below is a brief overview of various UK visa categories along with their associated fees for Germans looking to work or do business in the UK.
- Innovator Founder Visa (Introduced 2023)
- Purpose: Ideal for German entrepreneurs. Simplified process with endorsement approval, could lead to UK family residency.
- Innovator Founder UK Visa Fees Germany:
- Endorsement: €1,202
- Application: €1,431
- Start-Up Visa
- Purpose: For Germans starting an innovative business in the UK.
- Start-up Visa Fee: €523
- Replaced by Innovator Founder Visa.
- Innovator Visa
- Purpose: For Germans with innovative, viable, and scalable businesses. Requirements include an endorsement, £50,000 investment, and B2 IELTS level.
- Innovator Visa Fee: €1,431
- Replaced by Innovator Founder Visa.
- Investor Visa
- Purpose: For high-value Germans investing in the UK.
- Investor Visa Fee: €2,264
- High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa
- Purpose: For German graduates from top-50 global universities seeking employment in the UK.
- HPI Visa Fee: €988
- Scale-Up Visa
- Purpose: For Germans with a job offer from an authorised UK scale-up company. Leads to potential UK settlement after 5 years.
- Scale-up UK Visa Fees Germany: €988
- Global Talent Visa
- Purpose: For Germans who are leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, or digital technology.
- Fees:
- Approval Letter for Global Talent visa initial application from Germany: €630
- German Main Applicant with Approval Letter: €231
- Main Applicant without Approval Letter and for Dependants: €860
- T2 Minister of Religion Visa
- Purpose: For Germans intending to undertake preaching and pastoral work.
- T2 Minister of Religion UK Visa Fees Germany: €864
- International Sportsperson Visa
- Purpose: For elite German sportspersons or coaches contributing to UK sports.
- Fees:
- Up to 12 months CoS: €358
- More than 12 months CoS: €864
- T5 (Temporary Worker) Visa
- Purpose: For Germans in various sectors, such as seasonal, religious, or creative workers.
- T5 Temporary Worker UK Visa Fees Germany: €358
6. How to Apply for UK Visa from Germany?
A comprehensive guide tailored for Germans and residents in Germany detailing the steps for applying for a UK visa. Note: The estimated cost provided is for a UK visitor visa. Residents in Germany opting for priority service may complete the process within 5 working days instead of 15 working days.
Total Time: 30 days
-
Determine the Visa Type
Identify the specific category of visa that aligns with your purpose for traveling from Germany to the UK.
-
Create an Account
Navigate to the official UK government website dedicated to visas and immigration. Register an account on the UK Visas and Immigration platform.
-
Complete the Application Form
Fill out the designated online application form, double-checking that all information is consistent with your supporting documents.
-
Pay the Visa Fee
Following the completion of your form, the system will guide you to proceed with the application fee payment via the online payment gateway.
-
Gather Your Supporting Documents
Based on the visa type, gather essential documents like your German passport or resident permit, proof of finances, and UK accommodation details.
-
Book an Appointment at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Germany
If you’re not using the Immigration App for identity verification, it’s essential to schedule an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (UKVAC) in Germany.
-
Attend Your Appointment
Visit the VAC, armed with all the supporting documents, and perform the biometric procedures as per the guidelines provided in your appointment confirmation.
-
Wait for a Decision
After submission, your application will be processed. You’ll be notified when the decision is finalized.
-
Collection or Delivery of Passport
Collect your passport with the visa attached from the VAC, or opt for courier delivery.
-
Prepare for UK Arrival
With your visa in hand, prepare for your travel to the UK, ensuring you’re aware of the visa conditions.
Estimated Cost: 138 €
Supply:
- Application form
- Valid German Passport or Resident Permit
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Payment for visa fee in EURO
- Proof of accommodation in the UK
Tools:
- Internet access
- German Passport or Resident Permit
- Financial documents
Materials: Printed GWF UK visa online application form. Financial Proof: Bank Statements for recent 6 months. Photocopies of Documents: Conveyance Deeds, Rental Agreements, Family Form.
7. UK Visa for German Citizens: Supporting Documents
Documents Required for UK Visa from Germany
- Valid Passport/Travel Document:
- Ensure it is valid for the entirety of your stay in the UK, with at least one blank page for the visa sticker.
- Application Form:
- Complete and authenticate it through the UK Visas and Immigration portal. For guidance, see: Filled UK Visa Application Form PDF Example.
- Proof of Accommodation:
- Provide details of where you will stay in the UK.
- Financial Proof:
- Demonstrate your financial capability to support your stay.
- Travel Itinerary:
- Include a detailed plan of your activities and travel within the UK.
- Proof of Ties to Germany:
- Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Germany, such as employment or family ties.
- English Language Proficiency:
- Required in some cases, usually verified through an accredited English test.
Documentation Specific to Visa Type
- Work Visas:
- Job offer, Certificate of Sponsorship, and relevant professional qualifications.
- Study Visas:
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) document.
- Family Visas:
- Evidence of relationships, such as marriage or birth certificates.
- Tourist Visas:
- Additional information about your trip, if required.
For Applicants with UK-Based Sponsors
German residents or citizens with a sponsor in the UK should include their sponsor’s supporting documents. This is particularly important for visas typically requiring sponsorship, like family or employment-based visas.
Required Sponsor Documents:
- Letter of Invitation:
- From the UK sponsor.
- Proof of the Sponsor’s Immigration Status:
- Documentation confirming the sponsor’s legal status in the UK.
- Financial Documents:
- Accommodation Proof:
- Confirmation of the sponsor’s ability to provide accommodation.
- Relationship Evidence:
- If applicable, to prove the relationship with the sponsor.
Please Remember:
While sponsor documents can strengthen your application, fulfilling the primary visa requirements is crucial for German citizens and residents applying for a UK visa.
8. FAQs: UK Visa Fees Germany 2024
-
How long can Germans stay in the UK?
Germans can stay up to 180 days on a visitor visa. For other visa types like spouse, student, and work visas, the duration is defined by the visa validity. Germans can extend their stay by meeting Leave to Remain (LTR) requirements. Certain visa routes also allow for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventual British citizenship.
-
How Many Germans Live in the UK?
As of 2020, around 136,000 German-born residents lived in the UK, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS). This figure may have changed and doesn’t include German descendants or naturalized citizens.
-
Do UK Citizens need a visa for Germany?
Short stays up to 90 days don’t require a visa. However, an ETIAS authorization is necessary.
-
What Germans can do if UK Visit Visa is Refused?
Germans can reapply or seek Judicial Review. No appeal rights exist for visitor visa refusals. Appeals are possible on human rights grounds.
-
Can Germans Work on Visiting Visa in the UK?
Work is not permitted. Violations may lead to visa cancellation and re-entry bans.