Extension of Schengen visas
All information from the lawyer on the requirements and procedure for extending Schengen visas.
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Here you learn ...
what extension options there are for Schengen visas
when the Schengen visa can be extended (requirements)
when the Schengen visa is extended as a D visa
what you can do if your application for extension is rejected
Table of contents
1. Extension of a Schengen visa
2. First extension of the Schengen visa
3. Second extension of the Schengen visa
4. Rejection of Schengen visa extension
5. FAQ
6. Conclusion Schengen visa extension
1. Extension of a Schengen visa
The extension of a Schengen visa in Germany is only possible in exceptional cases . Regarding the extension requirements, a distinction must be made between how often the visa is to be extended and the reasons for doing so. The first extension is governed by Schengen law; subsequent extensions are only possible as a national visa (D visa). Legally speaking, therefore, only one extension of the Schengen visa is possible; after that, any further extension is technically considered a national visa.
Important to know: Airport transit visas are generally not extendable , nor are visas with territorial restrictions to specific member states. Entry with these visas constitutes illegal (and therefore punishable) entry. Therefore, if you have not received a regular extension of your Schengen visa (for the entire Schengen area), you must continue to stay in the country that extended your Schengen visa as a national visa.
2. First extension of the Schengen visa
An extension of a Schengen visa is only possible if new circumstances have arisen after the visa was issued, the purpose of the stay has not changed , and either force majeure, humanitarian, or serious personal reasons exist ( Article 33, Paragraph 2 of the Visa Code ). Common scenarios include flight cancellations due to strikes or extreme weather conditions, sudden illness of the traveler, or the death of a close relative. Unforeseeable urgent professional obligations or delayed entry can also justify an extension. However, it should always be noted that the reasons for the extension must have arisen during the stay . Reasons that already existed before the original Schengen visa was applied for do not justify an extension.
The technical implementation of the Schengen visa extension is done on a new adhesive sticker in the passport, with particular care being taken to ensure that the new validity does not extend the stay beyond 90 days in any six-month period. The fee for such an extension is usually €30; in cases of force majeure or humanitarian reasons, it is free of charge. A refusal of an extension is usually communicated verbally, but can also be confirmed in writing upon request.
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3. Second extension of the Schengen visa
In exceptional cases , Section 6, Paragraph 2, Sentence 2 of the Residence Act allows for an extension of up to 180 days. However, this extension is then no longer issued as a Schengen visa (Category C), but as a national visa (Category D) with the explicit note " Does not apply to other Schengen states ." The stay is thus limited exclusively to the federal territory, and gainful employment is expressly excluded. Such a conversion to a national visa is particularly relevant in cases of extended medical treatment or serious humanitarian emergencies.
In principle, the requirements for a second extension of a Schengen visa as a national visa are the same as for the first extension . The visa applicant must therefore provide the same documentation as for an extension under the Visa Code. However, significantly higher requirements apply for a second extension. The authorities are generally very reluctant to grant a second extension of a Schengen visa and, in particular, require proof that the reason for the extension was not foreseeable prior to entry .
4. Rejection of Schengen visa extension
If an application for a Schengen visa extension is rejected, it often represents a significant burden for those affected – especially if there are family, medical, or professional reasons for continuing to stay in the Schengen area. If an application for a Schengen visa extension is rejected, those affected usually receive a formal notice . An appeal can be filed against this rejection notice or an appeal can be filed with an administrative court . It is crucial to carefully analyze the reasons for the rejection and, if necessary, refute them with additional evidence or a legal opinion.
Important: During a pending or rejected application, further residence in Germany is not automatically permitted . In particular, the Schengen visa does not have a fictitious effect ( Section 81, Paragraph 4, Sentence 2 of the Residence Act ). There is therefore a risk of unauthorized residence , which can lead to an obligation to leave the country and possible entry bans. To avoid serious consequences, those affected should therefore seek legal advice promptly. Expert legal advice can help assess the chances of success and plan the next steps in a well-founded manner.
Contact us
Are you looking for a lawyer specializing in German immigration and visa law? We are happy to assist you with residence procedures before embassies, immigration authorities, and administrative courts. Our specialised attorneys are always by your side. Contact us to book an online appointment with a German immigration lawyer!
5. FAQ
Is it possible to extend the Schengen visa?
Yes, but only in exceptional cases. The first extension of a Schengen visa is possible under Article 33 of the Visa Code if unforeseeable events such as force majeure, humanitarian, or serious personal reasons occur after entry.
What are the requirements for the first extension of a Schengen visa?
An extension is only possible if the purpose of stay remains the same and the reasons for the extension arose after entry. These include, for example, illness, death in the family, or flight cancellations. The extension may not exceed 90 days in any six-month period.
When can a Schengen visa be converted into a national visa (D visa)?
A second extension is only possible with a national visa according to Section 6 Paragraph 2 Sentence 2 of the Residence Act. It is granted for serious reasons such as medical treatment, is valid only in Germany, and excludes gainful employment.
6. Conclusion
The extension of a Schengen visa is only possible in exceptional circumstances and is subject to strict legal requirements. While the first extension is permitted under Article 33 of the Visa Code in cases of force majeure, humanitarian, or serious personal reasons, a second extension is only possible as a national visa (type D visa) – and only in demonstrably unforeseeable circumstances. If an application for an extension is rejected, this can have serious consequences – including the obligation to leave the country and possible re-entry bans. In such cases, prompt legal advice is advisable in order to be able to thoroughly examine and initiate legal remedies such as an objection or lawsuit. Anyone considering a Schengen visa extension should therefore clarify early on whether the requirements are met in the specific case.
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