Germany Introduces Visa Fee Waivers for Family Members

The German government has detailed the categories of family members eligible for Schengen visa fee waivers. According to the German Foreign Office, the standard processing fee for a Schengen visa is EUR 90 (approximately N134,433), while a national visa for longer stays costs EUR 75 (around N112,027).

Fee waivers apply to spouses, same-gender registered partners, minor unmarried children, and parents of minor German citizens. Family members of EU/EEA nationals are also eligible if they meet conditions under the Freedom of Movement Act.

Other applicants exempt from fees include children under six, students and teaching staff for educational purposes, researchers at scientific conferences, and representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 or under. For national visas, waivers are available for foreign nationals on publicly funded scholarships and their families.

The guidance clarifies that qualifying for a fee waiver does not eliminate the need to apply for a visa and meet all entry conditions set by German immigration rules.