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Germany medical visa

Germany issues a Schengen short-stay (Type C, up to 90 days) or long-stay (Type D, >90 days) Medical Treatment visa through its consulates. Most cases use Type C. Appointments at German consulates in busy source markets (Dubai, Delhi, Moscow) can be booked 4-8 weeks out — start the paperwork early. Family attendants apply separately with proof of relation.

2,154 hospitals Last updated May 5, 2026.

Germany

Schengen Medical Treatment Visa (Type C or D)

Takes about 10 days
Processing
About 10 days
Stay allowed
90 days
Extendable
No
Family can come
Yes
Documents you need
  • Hospital confirmation with cost estimate + Vorkasse (prepayment) receipt
  • Passport valid 3+ months beyond stay
  • Travel health insurance minimum €30,000
  • Accommodation booking
  • Return-ticket
  • Financial proof covering full treatment cost
  • Translated civil documents for attendants (notarized).

Visa-free entry and e-visa eligibility depend on your nationality. Check the official website or ask your coordinator before you apply.

Official visa website
Insider tip

German academic hospitals require Vorkasse — upfront payment into escrow — before issuing the invitation letter your visa application needs. The deposit can be $20,000-$100,000+ depending on treatment. Refunds for unused amounts take 4-6 weeks post-discharge. Long-stay Type D cases (complex oncology, transplants) need a Germany-based contact person for bureaucracy.

From first enquiry to boarding pass

  1. Share your case

    Upload imaging + current treatment plan. We share with 2-3 hospitals, get back itemized quotes in 48 hr.

    Day 1-2

  2. Pick a hospital

    Confirm the chosen hospital in Germany. They issue the invitation letter + treatment plan letter on letterhead.

    Day 3-5

  3. Apply for visa

    Submit Schengen Medical Treatment Visa (Type C or D) application with hospital documentation. Processed in ~10 working days.

    Day 6-16

  4. Finalise travel

    Book flights + accommodation. Your coordinator arranges airport pickup, SIM card, interpreter if needed.

    1-2 weeks pre-travel

  5. Arrive + treat

    Land → check in → case manager meets you at the hospital. Everything pre-scheduled.

    Day of arrival

Common visa questions

Do I need a medical visa for Germany?

Yes — Germany requires a Schengen Medical Treatment Visa (Type C or D) for treatment travel. Processing typically takes 10 working days.

How long does the visa last?

90 days, non-extendable. Family attendants can be included on related visa categories.

Can family members travel with me?

Yes — most destinations including Germany issue attendant visas for immediate family travelling with the patient. Relationship documentation is typically required.

What should I prepare before applying?

Get your hospital's invitation letter in writing (not just email), translate civil documents if required, photograph your passport + photos in advance, and have 3-6 months of bank statements ready. Your case manager prepares most of this bundle for you.

Is Medcasts help with the visa included?

Yes — visa invitation letter, documentation checklist, and embassy-appointment coordination are all part of the standard case-manager service. You handle the in-person appointment if one is required; we handle the paperwork bundle.

More for your trip to Germany