The German Mission in Nigeria has warned Nigerians seeking visas to Germany against using unofficial channels or paying agents to secure appointments.

The mission issued the warning on Wednesday amid reported confusion over the procedures for starting German visa applications.

It advised applicants to first determine the appropriate visa category based on the purpose and duration of their intended stay.

According to the mission, a Schengen visa is generally required for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, including tourism and family visits.

For stays exceeding 90 days, applicants are required to apply for a national visa for purposes such as employment, study, vocational training and certain family reunification cases.

Applicants were also advised to establish which German diplomatic mission is responsible for processing their applications before proceeding.

The mission said applicants should use the official online appointment system for the relevant visa category and follow the instructions provided.

For certain long-stay visa categories, applicants can begin the process through Germany’s Consular Services Portal. However, the online process does not remove the requirement for an in-person appointment where biometric information, original documents and other checks are required.

The German Mission warned applicants against paying agents or third parties simply to obtain visa appointments, stressing that official appointment booking is free.

It also advised applicants to ensure that appointments were booked under the correct visa category to avoid delays or having to secure another appointment.

During appointments, applicants may be required to submit supporting documents, provide biometric information and answer questions relating to their applications.

The mission further cautioned Nigerians against sending visa documents to German diplomatic missions by email as a substitute for the prescribed application process.

It urged applicants to rely only on official German government information when preparing their applications and to be cautious of individuals or organisations offering appointments or visa assistance in exchange for payment.

The mission said following the official procedures would help applicants avoid unnecessary payments, incorrect applications and delays in processing their visa requests.