The German Embassy in Islamabad has introduced a new online portal to make it easier and faster for Pakistani citizens to apply for work visas. The digital platform available at digital.diplo.de/visa, aims to reduce delays, increase the number of processed applications and eliminate the need for long waiting lists.
Through this system, applicants can now complete an online questionnaire, upload all required documents, and have their applications reviewed before visiting the embassy. This step-by-step process ensures that everything is in order, making the in-person appointment smoother and quicker.
The portal currently supports several types of employment visas, including the EU Blue Card, skilled worker visas, self-employment, the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) and recognition of academic qualifications from Pakistan.
After submitting documents online, applicants are still required to attend an appointment to verify their identity, provide biometric data, and pay the visa fee.
The embassy has encouraged those still waiting for an appointment to start their applications through the new portal, as more visa types will gradually be shifted to this system.
In a related move, the German Consulate General in Karachi has introduced a new appointment policy. Due to high demand, applicants can no longer book visa appointments directly. Instead, they must register on a waiting list, and appointments will be assigned based on the order of registration and availability.
This new system applies to Schengen and long-term visas, but not to Opportunity Card applicants, who can still book appointments directly.
Both the embassy and the consulate say these updates are designed to improve efficiency and provide a better experience for applicants. With these changes, Germany hopes to make it easier for Pakistani professionals to work and grow in Europe.
