Legal basis for the extension

Extending a Schengen visa in Germany is based on:

• Article 33 of the Schengen Implementing Convention (SDÜ)

• and provisions of the German Residence Act (AufenthG)

The Aliens’ Authority (Ausländerbehörde) has the power to make the decision, depending on a humanitarian necessity, an emergency, or serious personal reasons.

When is a visa extension allowed within Germany?

An extension is granted only in the following cases of extreme necessity:

1. Medical emergency reasons (Notfallmedizinischer Grund):

• such as being hospitalized for urgent treatment

• proof of medical unfitness to travel (via a recognized German medical certificate)

• the need to accompany a patient who is unable to return

2. Flight cancellations or delays due to force majeure:

• such as airport closures, natural disasters, epidemics, wars

• official proof from the airline or the airport (flight cancellation / rebooking)

3. Special humanitarian / family circumstances:

• death of a family member in Germany

• birth of a child during the visit

• inability to return due to political or security reasons in the home country (assessed carefully)

Required documents:

• passport + current visa

• proof of the reason for extension (medical report, death documents, official letter, etc.)

• proof of financial means to cover the additional stay

• proof of accommodation in Germany

• health insurance covering the extended period

• completed extension application form required by the Ausländerbehörde

How long can the visa be extended?

• Maximum extension: up to 90 additional days (very rare)

• In most cases, the extension is only for a few days or weeks, depending on the reason

Where to submit the application?

• At the local Ausländerbehörde in the city where you are staying

• Preferably before the visa expires

• In emergencies, it can be submitted immediately after expiry, provided there is a strong justification

Cases that are not considered sufficient for an extension:

• wanting to stay longer for tourism

• waiting for an asylum application to be accepted after entering on a visa

• starting studies or work without officially changing the residence status

• delaying flight booking without an emergency reason

What if the visa expires and is not extended?

• your stay becomes illegal (illegaler Aufenthalt)

• this may result in a fine, deportation, or a future entry ban

• therefore, it is important to contact the authorities immediately and explain the reason before the visa expires

Conclusion

Extending a Schengen visa within Germany is possible only in cases of extreme necessity, not as a routine option.
It requires strong evidence, cooperation with local authorities, and timely submission.
It is crucial to understand that such an extension is not granted for ordinary personal preferences, but as a legal exception under strict conditions.

— The website’s authors and editors strive to provide accurate information through extensive research and by consulting multiple sources. However, some errors may occur or certain information may be unconfirmed. Please consider this content as an initial reference and always consult the competent authorities for confirmed and binding information.