China to Germany tourist visa
Complete Germany Schengen visa requirements, fees, processing times, and approval tips for Chinese citizens. Updated December 2025.
- Visa
- Germany Schengen Visa
- Fee
- €90
- Processing time
- 15 calendar days (up to 45)
- Length of stay
- Up to 90 days
Required documents
- Valid Passport — Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area
- Visa Application Form — Complete the Schengen visa application form using the VIDEX online system
- Biometric Photographs — Recent passport-sized photographs meeting Schengen and ICAO specifications
- Travel Medical Insurance — Valid travel insurance covering all Schengen countries for your entire stay
- Flight Reservations — Round-trip flight bookings showing entry and exit from Schengen Area
- Accommodation Confirmation — Proof of where you will stay during your visit to Germany
- Detailed Travel Itinerary — Day-by-day plan of your activities and movements in Germany and other Schengen countries
- Cover Letter — Personal letter explaining the purpose and details of your trip
- Bank Statements — Recent bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds for your trip
- Employment Documentation — Evidence of your employment status and income in China
- Hukou (Household Registration) — Copy of your household registration booklet
- Ties to Home Country — Documentation proving your intention to return to China after your trip
- Biometrics Enrollment — Fingerprints and photograph captured at VFS Global Visa Application Centre
- Signed Declarations — Mandatory declarations confirming accuracy of information and insurance coverage
How to apply
- Determine your travel dates and — Determine your travel dates and create detailed itinerary Plan your trip comprehensively, including all cities you’ll visit, accommodation for each night, and planned activities. If visiting multiple Schengen countries, ensure Germany is your main destination or first entry point. 2
- Gather all required documents Collect — Gather all required documents Collect passport, hukou copy, photographs, bank statements, employment proof, travel insurance, flight reservations, and accommodation confirmations. Review the complete requirements checklist provided by German missions in China. 2
- Complete the VIDEX online application — Complete the VIDEX online application form Fill out the Schengen visa application on the VIDEX website. 2 Ensure all information matches your supporting documents exactly. Print all pages including barcodes and sign the form.
- Purchase travel insurance Buy Schengen — Purchase travel insurance Buy Schengen travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage valid for all member states and your entire travel period. 6
- Book VFS Global appointment Schedule — Book VFS Global appointment Schedule your appointment at the nearest VFS Visa Application Centre through their online booking system. 3 VFS operates in 15 cities across China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Shenzhen.
- Attend biometrics appointment at VFS — Attend biometrics appointment at VFS Arrive 15 minutes early with your original passport, printed application form, appointment confirmation, and all supporting documents. 3 Your fingerprints and photograph will be captured (exempt if provided within last 59 months).
Common questions
- How long can I stay in Germany on a Schengen visa?
- The Schengen visa allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This means you can spend a maximum of 90 days across all Schengen countries combined over a rolling 6-month window. You cannot circumvent this by leaving and immediately re-entering.
- Can I visit other European countries with a Germany Schengen visa?
- Yes! A Schengen visa issued by Germany grants you access to all 29 Schengen member states: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
- How long does it take to get a Germany Schengen visa from China?
- Standard processing is 15 working days from when your application reaches the German consulate. During peak seasons (summer and Chinese New Year), processing may extend to 30 days. Apply at least 4–6 weeks before your travel date to allow adequate time.
- What is the Germany Schengen visa approval rate for Chinese citizens?
- As of 2024, Germany approved 96.4% of Schengen visa applications from Chinese citizens (253,505 approvals out of 263,088 applications). This is one of the highest approval rates among all nationalities applying to Germany, making it an excellent choice for Chinese travelers.
- Where can I apply for a Germany Schengen visa in China?
- You can apply at any VFS Global Visa Application Centre across China. Centers are located in 15 cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Jinan, Changsha, Chongqing, Kunming, Shenyang, and additional locations. Book your appointment online through the VFS Global website.
- How much money should I show in my bank account for a Germany Schengen visa?
- While there’s no fixed minimum, it’s recommended to show at least €60 per day of your stay. For a 2-week trip, this would be approximately €840 (¥6,700). Your bank statements should show stable income and consistent balance over 3–6 months.