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Business trip and business visa
Everything you need to know about applying for business visas and the requirements for a business trip according to § 16 BeschV (visa-free or with a Schengen visa).
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what a business visa is
Difference between a business visa and a work visa
Requirements for visa-free business travel
how to apply for a business visa
1. Germany Business Visa
1.1 What is a business visa?
1.2 Difference between a business visa and a work visa
2. Permitted activities for a business visa (business trip)
3. Business Visa Germany Requirements
4. Step-by-step guide to business visas
4.1 Guide to applying for a business visa
4.2 Visa fee and processing time for business visas
5. FAQ
6. Conclusion: Business Visa and Business Trip
1. Germany Business Visa
1.1 What is a business visa?
A business visa for Germany is essential for international entrepreneurs, business travelers, and investors planning business activities in Germany . The business visa is a Schengen visa (type C) that allows business travelers to stay in Germany for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It is not equivalent to a long-term residence permit or a work permit.
1.2 Difference between a business visa and a work visa
In Germany, a business visa is strictly distinct from a work visa . A business visa is generally limited to a specific duration (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days) and cannot be converted into a residence permit. Taking up employment or providing paid services is not permitted with a business visa (with a few exceptions). A work visa, on the other hand, authorizes the holder to pursue long-term employment in the destination country. It is typically issued when a foreign employer officially hires an employee.
2. Permitted activities for a business visa (business trip)
When entering and staying in Germany with a business visa, it's important to note that only certain activities are permitted, as a business visa is not an official work visa. According to Section 16 of the Employment Ordinance (BeschV), only the following activities are permitted in Germany with a business visa:
Conducting meetings or negotiations
Attending trade fairs and managing company-owned exhibition stands
Create contract offers and conclude contracts
monitor the execution of a contract
to establish, supervise or control a domestic business unit
The listed activities are considered business trips and fall under the so-called " fiction of non-employment " ( § 30 BeschV ). No other activities may be undertaken with a business visa. Exceeding the limits of a business trip constitutes illegal employment of a foreign national and is therefore a criminal offense (see § 95 para. 1a AufenthG).
3. Business Visa Germany Requirements
To obtain a business visa for Germany, applicants must meet the following requirements :
Business invitation from a German company or business partner
Proof of travel planning & purpose of travel (e.g. meetings, contract negotiations, trade fairs)
Sufficient financial evidence to cover travel expenses
Travel health insurance with sufficient coverage
Proof of willingness to return after completion of the business trip
The requirements for a business visa can vary depending on the country . If in doubt, you can find the exact requirements for a business visa on the website of the German embassy in your home country, provided that relevant information sheets are available.
4. Step-by-step guide to business visas
4.1 Guide to applying for a business visa
Applying for a business visa for Germany is done through the German embassy or consulate in your home country. To apply for a business visa for Germany, you must proceed as follows:
Step 1: Make an appointment at the relevant embassy or a Visa Application Center (e.g. VFS Global or TLS Contact)
Step 2: Completing the online visa application via the VIDEX system of the German authorities
Step 3: Compilation of the required documents (passport, letter of invitation, proof of business relationships)
Step 4: Personal interview and submission of biometric data
Step 5: Processing the application (usually 7-15 working days)
Step 6: Obtaining the visa and entering Germany
4.2 Visa fee and processing time for business visas
The visa fee for a business visa is currently €90 and is adjusted regularly. Processing time varies depending on the embassy's workload, but usually takes between 14 and 21 business days.
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5. FAQ
What is a business visa and how does it differ from a work visa?
A business visa (Schengen visa type C) allows business travelers from third countries to stay in Germany for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
What activities are permitted in Germany with a business visa?
Permitted activities are those that fall under the so-called non-employment fiction (§ 16 in conjunction with § 30 BeschV), e.g.: participation in meetings, contract negotiations, attendance at trade fairs, company management or contract monitoring.
What are the requirements for applying for a business visa?
Required documents include an invitation letter from a German company, a credible travel itinerary, proof of travel financing, travel health insurance, and documents demonstrating intent to return. Requirements may vary slightly depending on the country of origin.
6. Conclusion
The business visa for Germany is a key issue for international business travelers, entrepreneurs, and investors planning short-term business activities in Germany. Unlike a work visa , it does not authorize employment but solely the performance of clearly defined business activities such as contract negotiations, trade fair attendance, or business management in accordance with Section 16 of the Employment Ordinance (BeschV). A successful application requires, in particular, proof of an invitation from a German business partner , travel planning, and sufficient financial resources. Adhering to the legal requirements for obtaining a German business visa ensures smooth and legally secure access to the German market.
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List of Sources (Paywall)
[1] Offer/Mävers, Employment Ordinance, 2nd edition 2022, § 16
[2] Visa Handbook, Trade Fair Visit, 77th Supplement, Version: 10/2023