›Can Indian passport holders enter Germany?
Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Germany. This means you will need to obtain a short-stay entry visa from the Germany consulate in your country before you can arrive and apply for the digital nomad visa. Factor in consulate processing time (typically 2–6 weeks) on top of the digital nomad visa timeline. Some indian applicants apply for the digital nomad visa directly at the consulate without entering first — check the Germany embassy website for current guidance.
›Requirements for Indian passport holders
The Digital Nomad Visa assesses all applicants on the same criteria regardless of nationality. Indian citizens can apply provided they meet the following requirements:
- Income: $11,826/month — proven via 3–6 months bank statements
- Remote work proof: Employment contract, freelance agreements, or client letters confirming you work for non-Germany entities
- Health insurance: health insurance + pension if 45+ years old
- Clean background: Police clearance from India (apostilled if required by Germany)
- Valid passport: India passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
- Accommodation proof: Rental agreement, hotel booking, or property documents in Germany
Important: Documents not in Germany's official language or English must be certified translated. Indian applicants should confirm apostille requirements for documents issued in India.
›How Indian citizens apply — step by step
- Gather documentation. Collect 3–6 months of bank statements showing consistent income above the threshold, employment contracts or freelance agreements, valid India passport (6+ months validity), international health insurance certificate, and a police clearance certificate.
- Authenticate documents. Check whether Germany requires apostille stamps on India-issued documents. Arrange certified translations for any documents not in the local language or English. This step can take 2–6 weeks — start early.
- Check entry requirements. Verify whether Indian citizens can enter Germany visa-free or need a short-stay visa before applying for the digital nomad visa. Check the Germany embassy website for current entry requirements for India passport holders.
- Submit your application. Apply through the official Germany government portal. Some programs accept online applications; others require in-person submission at a consulate.
- Await approval and enter. Once approved, book travel and confirm your health insurance is active from day one. Register with local immigration if required within the first 30 days of arrival in Germany.
›Tax treatment for Indian digital nomad visa holders
Tax obligations for Indian citizens on the Digital Nomad Visa depend on your residency status and duration of stay. Most digital nomad visa holders are not considered tax residents in Germany if their income originates abroad — but this is not guaranteed.
Extended stays (typically 183+ days in a calendar year) may trigger local tax residency. As a India citizen, you must also consider your home country's worldwide income reporting requirements and any bilateral tax treaty between India and Germany.
Always consult a tax professional who understands both India and Germany tax law before committing to an extended stay.
›Common mistakes Indian applicants make
Weak or inconsistent income documentation
Depositing a lump sum right before applying won't work. Germany immigration officials want to see consistent income above the threshold over 3–6 months. Sporadic freelance payments or transfers from family members don't qualify. Start maintaining clean financial records as early as possible.
Missing apostille or translation requirements
Indian applicants often underestimate authentication requirements. India-issued documents — including bank letters, employment contracts, and police certificates — may need apostille stamps and certified translations. This process can take weeks. Budget for it early.
Not confirming entry eligibility before booking travel
Indian passport holders may need a short-stay visa to enter Germany before their digital nomad visa is approved. Confirm entry requirements with the Germany embassy before booking any flights. Entry eligibility and DNV eligibility are separate questions.
