What is a short-term stay?

A short-term stay is a stay of up to 90 days within 180 days in Germany, for example for tourism or visiting purposes.

It is irrelevant whether you stay in Germany for 90 days at a time or enter and leave the country several times.

If you want to work in Germany, a visa is usually required, even if you want to stay in Germany for less than 90 days. EU citizens are exempt from this requirement.

Who can enter Germany without a visa?

For short-term stays of up to 90 days, non-EU nationals living in Spain do not require a visa. Their valid identity document (national passport) and a valid Spanish residence permit are sufficient.

EU nationals living in Spain require a valid identity document from their home country to travel to Germany.

In addition, nationals of some other countries do not require a visa. You can find an overview here.

Can I travel to Germany with an expired Spanish residence permit and/or „autorización de regreso“?

No. You may only enter Germany with a valid Spanish residence permit for up to 90 days.

It is not possible to enter Germany with an expired Spanish residence permit and the requested extension and/or an „autorización de regreso“.

In this case, you should contact the competent Spanish authority and apply for your Spanish residence permit. You may only enter Germany for up to 90 days with a valid Spanish residence permit.

Can I apply for a Schengen visa at the embassy?

In principle, the embassy does not process applications for Schengen visas

Can I work?

In principle, you are not allowed to work during a short-term stay without a visa. There may be exceptions, e.g. for internships or artistic performances. Please contact us to clarify whether you need a visa or not.