FAQs

How do I apply for a visa?

The German Federal Foreign Office provides complete information on whether you require a Schengen visa to enter Germany, as well as instructions on how to obtain a visa prior to traveling to Germany.

If a visa is required, applicants may submit their visa applications directly to the competent Embassies and Consulates General (missions abroad) of the Federal Republic of Germany. 

The visa application should be submitted to the visa office of the German Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. 

Applicants must prepare original documentation to support the application, the documentation includes, but is not limited to:

  1. Germany visa application form
  2. Purpose of trip (Sibos visa invitation letter)
  3. Valid passport
  4. Two identical passport style photos
  5. Proof of accommodation in Germany (Hotel booking, rental agreement, a letter of invitation by a host, or proof you own a house/apartment in Germany).
  6. Transportation/round trip reservation or itinerary. (A booked flight ticket, train ticket or a ticket for another means of transport should be submitted as a proof of the date you will enter and leave Germany and the transport you will use to reach there).
  7. Adequate health insurance coverage.
  8. Proof of financial means. (Bank statement, a letter of sponsorship by another person or a combination of both.)
  9. Proof of willingness to return to own country (Reservation of or return or round ticket; proof of financial means in the country of residence; proof of employment: bank statements; proof of real estate property; proof of integration into the country of residence: family ties; professional status).

The processing fee for a Schengen visa is normally EUR 90. The applicant must pay a fee for their application, plus postage. An additional fee applies for urgent cases. 

Please contact visa.support@sibos.com or call +44 207 706 5569 if you require additional support.

When should I apply for a visa?

You may apply for a Schengen visa from between six months and no later than 15 days before your planned trip; however, you can make the appointment prior to this time. 

We recommend applying as soon as you have registered for Sibos 2025, as appointment availability may vary.

Processing times vary from country to country but allow at least 15 days. Processing times for some countries can be up to 45 days. Please check with the German Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.

Why should I book an official Sibos hotel?

Official Sibos hotels are available to book once you’ve completed your Sibos registration. Once your event registration is confirmed, you’ll receive a link to our hotel booking service. 

Our booking service offers the best available rates at hotels which have been inspected and validated as official Sibos hotels. Additional benefits include the option to collect your Sibos badge in advance for fast-track entry to the event venue.

For any enquiries regarding your hotel booking, feel free to reach out to us.

How can I book my hotel?

You will be able to book your accommodation via your Sibos confirmation email, once you've completed the registration process. All questions and enquiries for Sibos 2025 hotels are managed by the Sibos hotels team (hotels@sibos.com / +44 207 706 5569).