Germany to make getting a visa easier and faster

Germany will ease its visa controls this year in a move expected to help thousands of people and companies from Russia and China seeking to do business in the European Union’s biggest economy.

‘I am pushing for a liberal visa policy which reflects Germany’s role in a globalized world,’ said foreign minister Guido Westerwelle.

The new rules are designed to simplify and speed up visa issuance by demanding fewer documents, making forms available on the internet and ensuring decisions are made within 72 hours.

Some of the administration will be outsourced and individuals, especially business people, will no longer be required to appear in front of German authorities in person.

Source: ExpatForum.com