Germany Ends Visa Appeal Process Worldwide Starting July 2025, Updates Long-Term Entry Rules

Germany will eliminate the remonstration procedure for visa appeals starting July 1, 2025.

This change affects all foreign nationals, including Nigerians, who will lose the option to formally contest visa denials.

The Federal Foreign Office of Germany confirmed this update via an official statement.

Starting July 1, 2025, Germany will officially eliminate its global visa appeal process known as the remonstration procedure. This change affects all foreign nationals including Nigerians who will no longer have the option to file a formal objection after a visa denial, requesting the embassy to reconsider the decision.

This update was confirmed by the Federal Foreign Office of Germany through a statement published on its official website. The announcement also included updates to the visa and entry procedures for third-country nationals intending to stay in Germany for more than 90 days for purposes such as work, study, or residence.

“The Federal Foreign Office has resolved to end the global appeal process for visa denials from July 1, 2025,” the statement read. “This appeal mechanism, although previously allowed on a voluntary basis, was not legally mandated. The move will not impact the legal avenues still available for applicants.”

Instead of appealing, rejected applicants will receive detailed reasons for the refusal and be given two alternatives: challenge the decision in court or submit a new visa application with revised documentation.

Clearer Guidelines for Long-Term Visas

Germany has also reiterated that individuals from countries outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland must apply for a visa before entering the country if their stay exceeds 90 days or involves employment.

However, passport holders from countries such as Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the UK, and the US can still enter Germany without a visa and apply for a residence permit after arrival.

“Citizens of Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States may enter Germany visa-free and apply for the required residence permit once in the country,” the ministry clarified.

For all other nationals not on this exemption list, a long-stay visa must be obtained through the relevant German consulate or embassy prior to arrival.

Visa Processing May Take Up to Three Months

Certain types of long-term visas, such as those for education, family reunification, or self-employment, often require authorization from local immigration offices in Germany. These applications may take up to three months or more to process.

“Approval from the immigration authority at the applicant’s intended place of residence in Germany is typically necessary. Depending on the visa category, additional agencies—such as the Federal Employment Agency may also be involved. The visa will only be issued once all necessary approvals are secured,” the update explained.

Conversely, employment-related visas are usually processed faster since they don’t always require involvement from other agencies.

Holders of Germany’s national visa (D-type) also enjoy limited travel freedom within the Schengen Area, allowing them to visit other European countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without additional visas.