Published: 29.05.2026
Russian citizens need a Schengen visa for short-term travel to Germany, while employment, study, long-term medical treatment, permanent relocation, or marriage to a German citizen require a national category D visa. Short-stay applications are submitted through a visa center, and documents may be filed no earlier than 90 days before the planned trip.
According to the source, Russian citizens remain subject to a distinction between short-term travel under a Schengen visa and long-term purposes requiring a national category D visa. People relocating for work, study, or permanent residence therefore need to prepare documents for the relevant long-term purpose rather than rely on tourist entry. Short-stay applicants must also account for visa-center submission and the 90-day filing window before travel. This is particularly relevant to Russian citizens planning a move or trip to Germany and should be considered when scheduling the application process.