Updated: May 16, 2026 · News
Germany is moving national visa applications online: what you can already apply for digitally
Germany is gradually moving national visa D applications online worldwide. The German embassy in Georgia is a good example of how two parallel systems currently operate.
What you can already apply for online
Via the Auslandsportal you can already submit online applications for:
- the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte);
- the EU Blue Card;
- regular work visas;
- student visas;
- family reunion;
- a number of other categories.
After the online pre-check, you only need to show your originals at the embassy, give biometrics and pay the consular fee.
What still requires paper
Some visas are still processed on paper only. Unfortunately, these include:
- freelancing and self-employment;
- language courses;
- au pair;
- medical treatment;
- some other categories.
The procedure differs between embassies and changes over time. We covered the Belgrade process in detail in How to get a German national visa D in Serbia.
Not sure which procedure applies to your category?
We'll help you choose the right basis for your move, the document list and the application strategy — online or on paper. You can start with our “Which visa fits you” quiz.
FAQ
Which visa D applications can already be submitted online?
Via the Auslandsportal you can apply for the Opportunity Card, the EU Blue Card, regular work visas, student visas, family reunion and a number of other categories. The exact list depends on the embassy.
Can I apply for a freelance visa online?
Using the German embassy in Georgia as an example, no: freelancing and self-employment are still processed on paper only. The same applies to language courses, au pair and medical treatment.
What happens after the online application?
After the online pre-check, you still need to show your originals at the embassy, give biometrics and pay the consular fee. So a visit to the embassy is still required.
Does the same procedure apply everywhere?
No. Two parallel systems currently operate — online and paper — and the procedure differs between embassies and changes over time. Check the rules for the embassy you plan to apply at.