1.Differentiation of visas according to length of stay

Visas can generally be differentiated according to how long a person intends to stay in a country. Short-term visas are generally valid for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period ( Section 6 (1) of the Residence Act ). They are often applied for for tourism, business visits, or family stays and do not permit permanent residence or employment in the respective country. Exceptions to this rule are possible, however (so-called Schengen hybrid visas ).

Long-term visas, on the other hand, are valid for stays of more than 90 days and usually require a specific purpose of stay, such as studying , working, or bringing family members with them . Such visas are often a prerequisite for later applying for a residence permit and, in many cases, also enable long-term integration into the social and economic life of the country (e.g., through later application for a settlement permit or even naturalization ).

2. Differentiation of visas according to the purpose of stay

Visa types can also be differentiated according to the purpose of stay . A key aspect in visa issuance is the purpose of stay, which applicants must state when applying. A study visa, for example, is issued when someone wants to attend a university or complete an academic education in a country. A work visa, on the other hand, is intended for individuals who want to take up employment in another country. Other residence permits, such as visas for family reunification or for attending language courses, also fall under this category of purpose-specific visas.

4. Distinction between national visa and European Schengen visa

It is also common to differentiate between visas based on their geographical scope . A national visa is issued by a single country and generally only entitles the holder to stay in that specific country (e.g., a work visa from Germany also only entitles the holder to work in Germany (exceptions are possible under certain circumstances, e.g., for the EU Blue Card and for business trips ). These visas are usually designed for a specific purpose and a longer period of stay and, in many cases, lead to a residence permit.

In contrast, the Schengen visa is valid for the entire Schengen area and is usually issued for short-term stays. It allows travelers to move freely within the Schengen states for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Especially for tourists, business travelers, or visitors, the Schengen visa is a flexible solution for traveling to several European countries with a single visa.