New Schengen Visa Rules: No More Appeals for Germany Applications

Charlie Germany Immigration updates 29 May 2025 | Updated On June 2, 2025 | 0

Planning a European summer getaway via Germany? A major visa rule change could affect your plans.

Starting July 1, Germany will no longer allow appeals for rejected Schengen visa applications. The Federal Foreign Office is ending the “remonstration” process—a formal procedure that previously allowed applicants to request a review of their denied visa, free of charge.

Until now, travellers whose applications were refused could submit a written appeal within 30 days. This process gave applicants a second chance without needing to start from scratch.

However, after a successful trial last year, German authorities have decided to permanently scrap the appeal option. From July 1 onward, the only way to challenge a rejection is to file a completely new application.

Officials say the goal is faster and more efficient visa processing.

Removing the appeals step allows visa officers to focus on new applications, cutting wait times and increasing approval rates overall.

What Does This Mean for Travellers?

If you’re applying for a Schengen visa through a German consulate, you’ll need to get everything right the first time—from supporting documents to itinerary details.

A simple mistake or missing paperwork could cost you time, money, and your summer plans.

If you need assistance with your Schengen visa application, IaM can help. Whether you're planning a short holiday, a career move, or a permanent relocation, our experienced legal team takes the stress out of your application.

Can You Apply Through Another Country?

Yes. You can apply for a Schengen visa through any of the 29 Schengen member states, not just Germany. Just make sure you meet the criteria: generally, that means you’ll enter through or spend the most time in the country you’re applying through.

Quick Reminder: What Is a Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa allows non-EU nationals to travel freely for up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the Schengen Area, which includes countries like Germany, France, Spain, and Italy.

Germany’s visa rule change may mark the end of the appeals era, but it doesn’t shut the door on your travel plans. Just be thorough, apply early, and double-check every document.

The real question now: Will other Schengen countries follow Germany’s lead?

What are your thoughts on this issue? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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IaM can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries

If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.

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About
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Charlie

Travel and Immigration Writer and Client Relationship Manager at IaM (Immigration and Migration)

Charlie is IaM’s resident Travel & Immigration Writer and Client Relationship Manager. They craft clear, engaging guides that demystify complex visa and migration rules - and then personally supports each client through every step of their journey.

Over the past 6+ years, with IaM, and working in the travel and immigration sector, Charlie has authored 200+ in-depth guides on Schengen, UK visas & other destinations they have relocated 1,000+ families safely through the system. A Clockwork Practitioner, Charlie also works hard to streamline operations and adheres to the mantra "Task Clients Well".

When they’re not translating policy into plain English, you’ll find them scouting new destinations, collecting local stories, and mastering a new language to better serve our global community.