Required Documents for a German Business Visa from Sri Lanka

Biometric Passport Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs (3.5 x 4.5 cm), full-face, white background, and not older than six months. One photo should be attached to the application.

Visa Fee: The application fee is 90 EUR (paid in LKR). For children under 6 years, the visa is free. For children between 6 and 12 years, the fee is 45 EUR.

Current and Previous Passports:

• Your current passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay.
• Full surname and first names must be listed (no initials).
• Include a copy of the bio page and any amendment pages.
• Your passport should have at least two blank pages.

Travel Health Insurance:

• Provide proof of valid travel health insurance covering the entire duration of stay in Germany and all Schengen states.
• The insurance should cover medical emergencies, repatriation, and hospital care with a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR (credit card insurance is not accepted).

Travel Itinerary:

• Submit details of arrival and departure flight information.
• Include surface travel dates to other Schengen countries (if applicable).
• Do not submit paid flight tickets, as the embassy is not liable for financial loss in case of visa rejection.

Hotel Reservation:

• If you don’t have a sponsor in Germany, submit a hotel reservation.
• If your sponsor is not in Germany, a reservation is also required.

Invitation/Sponsorship:

• Provide an original invitation letter from a company or institution in the Schengen area, detailing the purpose and duration of your stay.
• If travel expenses/accommodation are covered by the sponsor, include a declaration of sponsorship according to Sec. 66-68 of the German Residence Act.

Proof of Business:

• Business registration (Companies Act) document.
• Bank statements for the last three months from your company/employer in Sri Lanka.

Proof of Employment (for employees only):

• A letter from your employer stating the purpose and duration of your visit.
• The date of employment commencement and approved paid/unpaid leave period.
• Salary slips for the last 3 months.
• Documentary proof of EPF/ETF contributions.

Proof of Personal Financial Situation:

• Personal/family bank statements from any financial institution recognized by the Sri Lankan central bank (last 3 months).
• Up-to-date savings books with a balance confirmation letter from the bank.

Proof of Family Bonds (recommended for first-time travelers):

• Birth certificate, marriage certificate, or children's birth certificates.

Visa Questionnaire: Complete the Schengen visa questionnaire.

Other/Voluntary Documents (recommended for first-time travelers):

• Property deeds or other documents that support your case, such as proof of previous business relations, customs and excise documents, or further proof of intent to return.

Important Notes:

Early Application: It is recommended to apply as early as possible. Applications can be submitted up to 6 months before the planned trip.

Processing Time: The standard processing time is 15 calendar days. If an extended review is required, processing may take up to 45 working days. Ensure your application is submitted at least 15 calendar days before your planned trip.

Document Submission:

• Sort your documents according to the listed order.
• Attach copies of all documents.
• Submit original documents as well (they will be returned with your passport).

Translation of Documents: Documents in Sinhala or Tamil must be presented with an official English or German translation.

Additional Documents: The embassy may request further documentation if needed.

Complete Application: Submit only complete applications. Incomplete applications may be refused. Provide accurate and truthful information to avoid rejection.

Note for Visa Application Centres (VAC) Official:

• If your intended departure is within 15 working days from the application date, you must be informed that processing may extend beyond the intended departure.
• The applicant confirms they have no documents to submit other than those listed.
• If any documentation is missing or incomplete, the applicant has been informed and has chosen to proceed with the application.