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Germany, a country in Europe, remains one of the top destinations for Nigerians seeking tourism, business opportunities, education, or family visits.
Recently, the German diplomatic missions in Nigeria addressed circulating social media rumours about shortcuts and new rules for obtaining a German visa, stressing that all applications must be submitted through official channels: either the Consulate General in Lagos or the Embassy in Abuja and not via any third-party agents.
It further emphasised that any genuine change to the process will always be announced on official platforms.
Given the financial implications and confusion that misinformation like this can cost applicants, DUBAWA decided to produce this explainer to guide an interested applicant.
Key things to know
When a person who possesses a Nigerian passport intends to visit Germany for a short time (up to 90 days), for tourism, business purposes, medical treatment, or family visits, they need a Schengen Visa (type C).
A national visa (type D) is required for stays longer than 90 days, such as studying, working, or family reunification.
Previously, visa applicants faced lengthy paperwork, physical form submissions, and long wait times at embassies or consulates. However, as of Jan. 1, 2025, Germany’s new consular services portal switched its visa application system worldwide online, allowing applicants to complete the bulk of the process virtually. Through this centralised platform, a person can apply for any of the 28 national visa categories online, ranging from tourism and study to work and family reunification.
The process
Step 1: Complete the online application
Interested applicants start by completing an online form specific to their visa category through the Consular Services Portal. They must also upload supporting documents, such as scanned passports and proof of qualifications, before applying for preliminary review by the German consular staff.
The German consular staff will check and review an applicant’s documents, and the applicant will be asked to provide any extra information.
A useful visa navigator tool helps the applicant choose the right visa category based on the travel purpose.
Step 2: Book an in-person appointment
After the documents are reviewed and confirmed, the applicant will be invited to schedule an in-person appointment.
During this visit, the applicant’s identity will be confirmed, and biometric data, such as fingerprints and photographs, will be taken.
Depending on the applicant’s location, the appointment will be at the German Embassy in Abuja (for specified categories and states) or the German Consulate in Lagos.
Alternatively, if it is more convenient and available, the applicant can go through one of the newly established VFS Global Visa Application centres in Abuja or Lagos. These centres now manage biometrics and document collection on Germany’s behalf.
After the appointment, the application is processed, and a decision is made. Once approved, the applicant’s passport and visa are returned via the VFS Centre or embassy for upcoming travels.
The process in Germany’s recent collaboration with Visa Facilitation Services (VFS Global) to expand visa application services in Nigeria has significantly improved.
As of Aug. 2025, four additional VFS Global Visa Application Centres have been introduced. Two are located in Abuja, two in Lagos, along with new centres in Cameroon and Cyprus. These facilities now manage document submission, biometric capture, and appointment scheduling, reducing the pressure on embassies and making the process more convenient, particularly for applicants outside major cities.
Conclusion
Applying for a German visa from Nigeria is no longer difficult. With the introduction of the consular services portal and the expansion of VFS Global centres, applicants can now handle most steps online and complete the remaining requirements at conveniently located centres.
